The Sixth Form College interview

You've got past the first two minutes and are now seated. Relax your shoulders, smile and hold eye contact throughout. Speak clearly. Once you've answered a question, stop speaking and wait for the interviewer. Don't try to fill the silence by adding more (unless you missed something out in your answer). At the end, thank your interviewer for their time and shake their hand, if offered (firmly, not limply!).

While you can't anticipate every question that you might be asked, here are some that you should prepare for:

Why have you decided to apply for XYZ College?

Ideas: reputation, facilities, you were impressed at the Open Evening

What are you hoping to gain from the course?

Ideas: building on an existing interest/skill, hope to pursue further at university

What can you offer the College?

Ideas: enthusiasm, join band/choir/orchestra, representation in sports

Where do you see yourself in 2/4/7/10 years?

If you know, fine. But it's also okay not to know what you want to be in ten years time - "I'm not sure at the moment. I'm interested in a number of things including science and music. I want to get three good A levels in Biology, Music and Psychology that keep my options open while I decide my next step after college."

What do you think is you best characteristic/talent/skill/achievement?

Ideas: trustworthy/kind/considerate, good footballer, school prefect. This question can also be asked as "what are your strengths and weaknesses?" in which case give two or three strengths followed by one weakness. If you state a weakness, also describe how you are improving in that area e.g. "My time management has been poor while doing coursework. I now plan what I need to do at the start of an assignment and write myself a to-do list which I then follow."

Do you have any questions for me?

Ideas: which universities do you have links with? if I find I'm not getting on with any of my chosen subjects, can I transfer in the first term? if you make me an offer, what should I do if I just miss the grades in that offer?