What are university phone interview questions like?

I'm applying to some universities that conduct interviews by phone. What should I expect during a phone interview? Are the questions different from in-person or virtual interviews, and how should I prepare?

Phone interviews conducted by universities are very similar to in-person or virtual interviews in terms of the questions asked. The main difference lies in the medium of communication, and this requires certain precautions and preparations that are unique to phone interviews.

Typically university phone interviews involve a mix of questions, some designed to learn more about your academic strengths, career objectives, reasons for choosing the particular university or program, and extracurricular activities. Questions asked might include:

1. Can you talk about a recent academic project that you found challenging and rewarding?

2. Why are you interested in this program/university?

3. Can you discuss a time when you had to overcome a significant obstacle?

4. What are your long-term career goals, and how will this program support those goals?

5. How do you balance your academic workload with other commitments?

Preparing for a phone interview involves a few unique considerations:

1. Environment: Ensure you are in a quiet place with good reception where you won't be interrupted.

2. Prepare Talking Points: Just like an in-person interview, make sure you prepare talking points about your strengths, examples of your accomplishments, and reasons why you're interested in the university and program.

3. Keep Important Documents Handy: Have a copy of your application, resume, and any other relevant documents on hand for reference.

4. Voice and Tone: Remember to enunciate, speak clearly and at an appropriate pace since the interview will be entirely verbal. Certain expressions that can aid understanding in a face-to-face conversation, like body language, will be missing.

5. Practice: Do a few mock interviews with a friend or a family member might also put you at ease and make you more comfortable with the process.

It's important to note that the goal of the interview from the university's perspective remains the same as well, which is to understand who you are as a student and person, beyond what they can see on paper. So make sure to display your passion, respect, and interest in your answers.

Finally, remember to thank your interviewer once the call concludes and to follow up with an email expressing your appreciation for their time. It may seem like a small detail, but it's a vital part of making a positive impression.