Your guide to acing graduate school interview questions
What to expect, how to prepare, and how to stand out
Interviewing for graduate school is your chance to bring your story to life beyond your GPA and personal statement.
Whether you’re preparing for your first interview or just want to be ready when the time comes, we’ve got you covered.
From navigating common questions and practicing answers to choosing the right outfit and knowing what’s off-limits, this guide walks you through how to stand out in both virtual and in-person settings — while staying true to yourself.
Why grad school interviews matter
Think of the interview as your opportunity to show more than what your transcript or personal statement can reveal. Admissions teams want to understand how you communicate, what motivates you, how well you know their program, and whether you're a good fit academically and culturally.
It’s also your chance to evaluate them. Use the interview to ask thoughtful questions and determine if the program aligns with your goals and values.
Begin your Bearcats journey
Common grad school interview questions (and how to answer them)
Understanding what might be asked — and how to answer — is the core of graduate school interview preparation. Below are the types of questions you’re likely to hear:
1. “Tell me about yourself.”
Keep it academic and relevant. Start with your undergraduate experience, research interests, and what led you to apply to graduate school. Avoid personal anecdotes unless they directly relate to your academic or career goals.
Pro tip: Practice a 1-2 minute elevator pitch that connects your past with your future.
2. “Why this program?”
Show that you’ve done your homework. Highlight specific faculty, research areas, or program values that align with your goals. If you’re applying for grad school at University of Cincinnati, referencing the unique research initiatives, facilities, or interdisciplinary opportunities is a smart move and can set you apart.
Pro tip: Explore UC’s graduate programs page for specific information.Replace with your text
3. “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
Use this opportunity to show self-awareness. Choose a real (but not deal-breaking) weakness, and focus on how you're actively addressing it. Strengths should reflect qualities like resilience, curiosity, or collaboration.
4. “Describe a challenge you’ve faced and how you handled it.”
This is a classic behavioral question. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep your answers focused and structured. Admissions committees are looking for problem-solving and adaptability.
5. “What are your short-term and long-term career goals, and how are you preparing to achieve them?”
Even if you’re not 100% certain, be clear about your current direction. Show that your goals align with what the program offers.
6. “Do you have any questions for us?”
Yes, you absolutely should. Ask thoughtful questions to ask during grad school interview like:
“What professional development resources are available to graduate students?”
“How do students typically find mentors within the program?”
“What kind of support is available for research or conference funding?”
These help you assess whether the program supports your personal and academic goals.
7. Tough grad school interview questions
Some programs may throw in curveballs like:
“What would you research if time and funding were no issue?”
“Tell me about a time you failed.”
“How would your peers describe you?”
These questions test your ability to think on your feet. Be calm, thoughtful, and honest. There are no perfect answers — just authentic ones.
What to expect from the grad school interview format
In-person interviews often include faculty panels, individual meetings, and sometimes campus tours. Virtual grad school interviews, more common now than ever, might happen via Zoom or similar platforms and can feel more casual — but treat them with the same level of professionalism.
Expect a mix of academic, personal and behavioral questions, in any format.
Real talk: Grad school interview do’s and don’ts
Do:
Dress the part. Not sure what to wear? Aim for clean, polished, and slightly formal attire — even if it’s virtual. If you’re on the fence about your outfit, stop by during walk-in hours to get feedback from a peer career coach or browse our interview attire tips.
- Research the program thoroughly, including the faculty and any recent publications.
- Practice mock interviews with a friend, use BigInterview, stop by the Career Studio for a walk-in session, or schedule an in-person mock interview with a career coach.
Send a thank-you email within 24 hours.
Don't:
Memorize answers word-for-word.
Wing it. Preparation shows professionalism.
Give generic answers.
Speak negatively about past institutions or professors.
Forget to test your tech setup if it’s a virtual interview.
Forget names or mix up programs.
Arrive late.
Virtual grad school interview tips
Many programs now offer or require virtual interviews. Treat them with the same seriousness as in-person meetings.
Here’s how:
Find a quiet, well-lit space.
Dress as if you’re attending in person.
Use a laptop or desktop, not your phone.
Use headphones to minimize echo or background noise.
Log in early to test audio/video.
Keep your resume, a notebook, and a few key points nearby.
For more virtual interview advice, review UC’s virtual interview tips.
A note on illegal or inappropriate interview questions
While most graduate interviews are respectful and professional, you may occasionally be asked something that feels personal or inappropriate, such as:
“Do you own or rent your home?”
“Are you planning to have children?”
“What religion do you practice?”
These questions are not acceptable in a graduate school interview and may violate federal or university guidelines. If you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to politely redirect or even leave the interview in more serious cases.
Know your rights and get guidance on what to do in these situations through UC’s guide to illegal interview questions.
Final thoughts: Make your grad school interview count
Your interview is your chance to go beyond grades and show your personality, drive and potential. With thoughtful prep, tailored responses, and professional presentation, you’ll be ready to shine.
Whether you’re meeting with a faculty member from UC’s Lindner College of Business or the College of Medicine, the core strategy is the same: prepare, connect, and communicate with confidence.
Want to feel more confident answering grad school interview questions? Explore our list of sample questions, and practice your responses using the BigInterview tool or with a peer career coach at the Career Studio.
Read more: