Tips on Interviewing for Boarding School

If you are interviewing for boarding school, make a good first impression by dressing well and introducing yourself.  Also, answer all questions honestly, thoughtfully, and intelligently. Ask questions about the school at the end of your interview as well, to show that you are interested in attending.

• Research the boarding school you are interviewing at.  Look at the school history, size, and familiarize yourself with the names of high level staff.  This prepares you with knowledge about the school.  Questions will be asked about your feelings of the school, and you will need to answer them properly.


• Provide a good first impression at your interview.  Dress in nice clothing, introduce yourself, and shake the interviewer's hand.  First impressions make a lasting impression and are important during interviews.


• Answer all questions asked of you thoroughly and honestly.  Use appropriate language when answering and avoid saying 'umm' and 'like.'  Give yourself a minute to collect your thoughts before answering, if you are unsure how to do so intelligently. Do not exaggerate grades and school performance.  Records are provided to the boarding school and the interviewer will have reviewed these.


• Ask questions about the school at the end of the interview.  Prepare these in advance so you know what to ask.  Ask about class sizes, class offerings, boarding accommodations, and activities.  This shows you are interested in the school making you a good candidate.


• Make eye contact with the individual interviewing you and sit with good posture.  This shows respect and interest in the conversation.  Also, do not fidget hands and feet during the interview.  This shows nervousness and lack of confidence.