Preparing for an art school interview

Some creative courses will invite you for an interview as part of the application process. This can be quite scary - but if you prepare well and practice then there is nothing to worry about.

Interviews are a two-way process. They are an opportunity for the selectors to find out more about you and your suitability for the course, but also for you to see if the university or college is the place and course for you.

Tips to prepare

Book your slot 📆

Book your place early, and give yourself time to prepare.

Print your documents🖨️

Print a copy of your:

• UCAS application
• personal statement
• digital portfolio (if required)
• any additional statements. 

You can then take these with you to the interview, along with notes on anything you think they might ask you. This means you have all your information to hand, and it shows that you've prepared for the interview.

Review your portfolio 🕵

Take a look at your portfolio and consider the following things:

• Do you need to do more research - both about the course and your creative influences?
• Practice talking about your work at length, and how each bit links to the next.
• They might look at your portfolio without you - make sure it is in your current running order

Predict their questions 🪄

Think about what questions they might ask you - and what you might say in response.

Practice your responses 🎭

Practice, practice, practice! Talk to friends, family, teachers, yourself... The more you talk about your work, the easier it becomes!

Before and on the day 📆

• Find out whether it is online or in person! If the interview is in person, plan your journey and allow extra time for diversions.
• Turn your phone off during the interview.
• Judge your interviewers - are they casual or formal? Act accordingly.
• Bring your notes with you.
• Don't play it cool. Handle your work confidently - you're here to tell them about you and your process.
• If you struggle with eye contact, make your work the focus.
• Listen to the questions, and don't be afraid to ask for clarification.
• Ask questions. Think about what you want to know in advance and have a few questions prepared.

First impressions 🤵

• It's OK to be nervous - tell the interviewer that you are.
• Try to smile and be friendly.
• Avoid being negative.
• Body language counts - don't stand with your hands in your pockets or staring at the floor.