Grad School Interview Questions & How to Answer Them

Congratulations on securing a graduate school interview! This is a significant step in your journey towards pursuing advanced studies in your chosen field. The interview process can be exciting and nerve-wracking, but with proper preparation, you can showcase your skills, experiences, and potential to the admissions committee. 

Let’s discuss common grad school interview questions, strategies for answering them effectively, and tips on what to ask your interviewers.

How to prepare for your interview

Before diving into specific questions, thoroughly preparing for your graduate school interview is essential. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

1. Research the program: Familiarize yourself with the program’s curriculum, faculty, research areas, and notable alumni. During your interview, demonstrate your knowledge and interest in the program.
2. Review your application materials: Reread your personal statement, resume, and any writing samples you submitted. Be prepared to discuss and expand upon the information you provided.
3. Practice common questions: Anticipate questions about your background, research experience, academic interests, and future goals. Practice answering these questions out loud to build confidence and refine your responses.
4. Prepare questions for your interviewers: Show your enthusiasm and engagement by asking thoughtful questions about the program, faculty, and resources available to graduate students.
5. Dress appropriately: Choose comfortable and appropriate professional attire for the program and institution.

Questions about your background

During your interview, you may be asked about your academic and professional background. These questions help the admissions committee understand your experiences, skills, and fit for the program.

What will you bring to this program/why should we admit you?

This question allows you to highlight your unique qualities, experiences, and potential contributions to the program. Focus on your strengths, relevant skills, and passion for your field. Discuss how your background and perspectives will enrich the program and how you plan to actively engage in the academic community.

Tell us about the research you’ve completed or contributed to

If you have prior research experience, be prepared to discuss your projects in detail. Explain your role in the research, the skills you developed, and the significance of the findings. If you haven’t conducted research, discuss any relevant coursework, projects, or internships that have prepared you for graduate-level research.

Example answer

During my undergraduate studies, I worked as a research assistant in Dr. Smith’s lab, investigating the effects of climate change on plant biodiversity. I collected and analyzed data and presented our findings at a departmental symposium. Through this experience, I developed skills in data analysis, scientific writing, and oral presentation. I also learned the importance of collaboration and attention to detail in research. I’m excited to build upon these skills and contribute to the groundbreaking research being conducted in your program.

Specific questions about classes you took or skills you have

The admissions committee may ask about specific courses you’ve taken or skills you’ve developed that are relevant to the program. Be prepared to discuss how these experiences have prepared you for graduate-level work and how you plan to apply these skills in your future research and coursework.

Questions about your interests and motivations

Your interviewers will want to know what drives your interest in the program and your plans for future research. Be prepared to discuss your academic passions and how they align with the program’s offerings.

What interests you about this program?

Demonstrate your knowledge of the program and explain how it aligns with your academic and professional goals. Discuss specific aspects of the curriculum, faculty expertise, or research opportunities that appeal to you. Show that you’ve researched and understand how the program will help you achieve your objectives.

Example answer 

I’m particularly drawn to your program’s interdisciplinary approach to environmental science. The opportunity to work with faculty from various departments, such as biology, chemistry, and public policy, will provide me with a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues facing our environment. Additionally, the program’s strong emphasis on fieldwork and community engagement aligns with my desire to conduct research that has real-world impact. I’m excited about the possibility of collaborating with Dr. Johnson, whose work on sustainable land management closely mirrors my own research interests.

What topics are you interested in researching?

Be prepared to discuss your research interests in detail. Explain how your previous experiences and coursework have informed your research questions and how you plan to explore these topics further in graduate school. Demonstrate your passion for your field of study and your potential to contribute to the program’s research efforts.

Who would you like to work with in our program?

Show that you’ve familiarized yourself with the program’s faculty and their research areas. Identify one or two professors whose work aligns with your interests and explain why you’d like to work with them. Discuss how their expertise and mentorship could support your academic and professional growth.

Questions about your post-graduation plans

The admissions committee will also want to know about your long-term goals and how the graduate program fits your career plans.

What career are you interested in pursuing after graduation?

Discuss your career aspirations and how the graduate program will help you achieve them. Be specific about the skills and knowledge you hope to gain and how they will prepare you for your desired career path. Show that you’ve thought about your future and have a clear plan for how the program will support your goals.

Example answer

After completing my master’s degree in public health, I plan to work as a health policy analyst for a government agency or non-profit organization. I’m passionate about addressing health disparities and improving access to care for underserved communities. The program’s emphasis on health policy and management will give me the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze and develop policies promoting health equity. Additionally, the program’s strong network of alumni in the public health sector will be invaluable as I seek career opportunities after graduation.

What to ask your interviewers

Asking thoughtful questions during your interview demonstrates your engagement and interest in the program. Here are some topics you may want to inquire about:

• Funding opportunities: Ask about available scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships that can help fund your graduate education.

Example

Can you tell me about the funding opportunities for graduate students in this program? Are there any teaching or research assistantships that students typically apply for?

• Access to advisors: Inquire about the program’s advising structure and how students are matched with faculty mentors.

Example

How are students paired with faculty advisors in this program? Are there opportunities for students to collaborate with multiple professors or change advisors if their research interests evolve?

• Other access to resources: Ask about the resources available to graduate students, such as research facilities, libraries, or professional development workshops.

Example

What resources are available to support graduate students’ research and professional development? Are there opportunities to attend conferences or workshops related to our field of study?

• Placement record (if not available online): If the program’s job placement information is not readily available, ask about the career paths of recent graduates.

Example

Can you share some examples of the career paths that recent graduates from this program have pursued? How does the program support students in their job search process?

What not to discuss

While it’s important to ask questions and engage with your interviewers, there are some topics that are best avoided during your graduate school interview:

• Personal issues or challenges: Avoid discussing personal struggles or challenges irrelevant to your academic or professional goals unless directly asked.
• Negative experiences with other programs or institutions: Focus on the positive aspects of the program you’re interviewing with rather than comparing it to or criticizing other schools.
• Salary or job prospects: While asking about career paths and job placement is appropriate, avoid asking about specific salary expectations or job guarantees.
• Controversial or sensitive topics: Steer clear of discussing controversial political, religious, or social issues that are not directly related to your field of study or the graduate program.