What’s involved in PhD interview?
Hi. I am to take admission in PhD in the UK. Many universities there grants the admission through personal interviews and have the statement of purpose as the mandatory requirement. After preparing my SOP and CV, targeted for various universities in the UK such as Warwick, Leicester and Nottingham Universities, etc. I wonder how the PhD interview goes like. Is it something like a job-related interview or what? What are the possible questions they ask? What are the land mines that I should be aware of? If anyone has made it through, please advise so that I can prepare myself in advance.
Posted in: Mentoring, PhD Admissions
Tia Ross 11:12 am on September 18, 2017 Permalink | Log in to Reply
The points that i will mention are some of the common questions asked during an interview from a PhD candidate by an interviewer. The most common question asked are; tell us about yourself, what influenced you to to do a PhD, according to you what are your strengths and weaknesses. After knowing this much, they will move towards the technical questions, such as details about your previous projects, why do you want work on the specified projects. Prepare answers for these questions well, i assure you will get through your interview. All the best pal!
annelieselamb 8:56 am on September 19, 2017 Permalink | Log in to Reply
Hi! Here is a list of some really basic questions –
Why did you intend to do a PhD?
Where do you see yourself after doing PhD? What are your future plans after doing PhD?
Why did you choose this research field?
Why do you feel that you are the right candidate for this PhD project?
Why did you choose this university for PhD?
sylviapetrie 9:11 am on September 22, 2017 Permalink | Log in to Reply
Well, it is very important for the students who are planning to apply for PhD program to understand that, candidates who are enrolled for the PhD program are selected on basis of their performance in the interview. Yes, PhD interview is just like a job interview. Some keys points to be kept in mind, these are- Before the interview do not get panic or anxious and consider this is your only shot and you have to crack it by hook or by crook. When you know, you have done all the research and study then there is no need to worry. Be patient and confident during the interview, do not stammer or hesitate in between, and give it your best shot.I can ensure that it will be useful. Best of luck.
Anmar Bishara 8:59 am on September 23, 2017 Permalink | Log in to Reply
Sometimes, they would also expect you to ask counter questions. In such cases, you can ask them questions regarding funding arrangements. Or some other questions like – Will the phd programme include any training & skills session?Will you get an opportunity to teach at the end of the project?Just be firm and confident clear all your doubts.