How to Prepare for Sixth Form Interviews

The interview is often the most nerve-wracking part of applying to a private sixth form college. However, with proper preparation and the right mindset, you can approach it with confidence and make a genuine impression.

This guide covers everything you need to know about sixth form interviews, from what to expect to how to prepare effectively.

Understanding the Purpose

What Interviewers Want

Sixth form interviews serve multiple purposes:

Assessing Academic Potential

Interviewers want to understand your intellectual curiosity, motivation, and capacity to succeed in A-Level study.

Evaluating Fit

They assess whether you will thrive in their specific environment and contribute positively to the college community.

Understanding You

Beyond grades, they want to know who you are as a person, what drives you, and how you think.

Answering Your Questions

Good interviews are two-way. They provide opportunity for you to learn more about the college.

What They Are Not

Interviews are not designed to:

• Trick or catch you out
• Test obscure knowledge
• Make you feel inferior
• Find reasons to reject you

Most interviewers genuinely want you to do well and show your best self.

Types of Interviews

General Interview

Most sixth form interviews are general discussions covering:

• Your academic interests and subject choices
• Extracurricular activities and interests
• Future plans and aspirations
• Why you want to attend this college
• Questions you have about the college

Subject-Specific Interview

Some colleges, particularly for competitive courses, include subject discussions:

• Exploring topics from your chosen A-Level subjects
• Discussing something you have read or studied
• Problem-solving or analytical tasks
• Demonstrating genuine subject interest

Assessment Day

Some colleges combine interviews with:

• Written tests in core subjects
• Group activities or discussions
• Taster lessons
• Tours and informal conversations

Preparation Strategies

Know Your Application

Review everything you submitted:

• Your personal statement or application form
• Subjects you applied for and why
• Any activities or achievements mentioned
• Your predicted grades and academic record

Be ready to discuss anything in your application in more depth.

Research the College

Demonstrate genuine interest by knowing:

• The college's ethos and values
• Distinctive features of their sixth form
• Recent news or achievements
• Specific opportunities that interest you

Avoid generic praise; reference specific things that attracted you.

Prepare for Common Questions

While you cannot predict every question, prepare for likely topics:

About Your Choices

• Why do you want to study your chosen subjects?
• What interests you about [specific subject]?
• How do your subject choices relate to future plans?

About Yourself

• What do you enjoy doing outside of school?
• What are you proud of achieving?
• How would your friends describe you?

About the Future

• What do you want to do after sixth form?
• Where do you see yourself in ten years?
• What career areas interest you?

About the College

• Why do you want to come here specifically?
• What can you contribute to our community?
• What questions do you have for us?

Develop Your Subject Knowledge

For subject discussions, demonstrate genuine engagement:

• Read beyond your GCSE syllabus
• Follow current developments in subjects you enjoy
• Have opinions on topics within your subjects
• Be able to discuss a book, article, or documentary that interested you

Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Having good questions shows genuine interest:

Good Questions:

• How does the personal tutor system work?
• What opportunities exist for [specific interest]?
• How do students typically prepare for Oxbridge interviews here?
• What makes successful students at this college?

Avoid:

• Questions answered on the website
• Questions focused only on results and rankings
• Anything suggesting you have not researched the college

Interview Day

Practical Preparation

Get the basics right:

Dress Appropriately

Smart but comfortable clothing is appropriate. You need not wear a suit, but avoid overly casual attire. When in doubt, err on the smarter side.

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Factor in potential transport delays.

Bring Necessary Documents

Some colleges request you bring specific items. Check instructions carefully.

Turn Off Your Phone

Ensure no interruptions during your interview.

Managing Nerves

Some nervousness is normal and even helpful:

Before the Interview

• Take slow, deep breaths
• Remember that nerves show you care
• Focus on the opportunity, not the pressure
• Visualise a positive conversation

During the Interview

• It is fine to pause and think before answering
• Ask for clarification if needed
• Remember the interviewer wants you to succeed

Making a Good Impression

First impressions matter:

• Offer a firm handshake and make eye contact
• Smile and appear pleased to be there
• Sit up straight and appear engaged
• Listen carefully to questions before answering

During the Interview

Answering Questions Well

Be Specific

General answers are forgettable. Use specific examples and details from your own experience.

Be Honest

Do not pretend to know things you do not or exaggerate achievements. Authenticity is more impressive than pretence.

Show Enthusiasm

Let your genuine interest come through. Passion is compelling and memorable.

Think Before Speaking

A thoughtful pause before a considered answer beats a rushed, unfocused response.

Develop Your Answers

Avoid single-word responses. Explain your thinking, give examples, and show depth.

Handling Difficult Questions

Sometimes questions catch you off guard:

If You Do Not Know Something

Admit it honestly, but show how you would approach finding out. "I do not know the answer to that, but I would start by..."

If You Need Time

"That is an interesting question. Let me think about that for a moment."

If You Misunderstand

"Could you clarify what you mean by...?" is perfectly acceptable.

If You Make a Mistake

Correct yourself briefly and move on. Everyone makes mistakes; dwelling on them is worse.

Subject-Specific Discussions

For academic discussions:

• Talk through your thinking process
• Be willing to engage with new ideas
• Ask questions if you need clarification
• Show intellectual curiosity, not just knowledge
• Admit when you are uncertain but offer your best reasoning

After the Interview

Reflection

Take time to consider:

• What went well that you can repeat?
• What would you do differently?
• Did the college seem right for you?
• Do you have any remaining questions?

Follow-Up

Generally, no follow-up is expected or necessary. However:

• Send a brief thank-you email if genuinely moved to
• Note down any questions that occurred to you later
• Prepare for any subsequent interviews with lessons learned

Waiting for Results

The wait can be difficult:

• Focus on other applications and schoolwork
• Remember that interviews are just one factor
• Trust that you presented your genuine self

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Being Unprepared

Not knowing basic information about your subjects, the college, or your own application creates a poor impression.

Being Over-Rehearsed

Memorised answers sound artificial and cannot adapt to actual questions. Prepare themes and examples, not scripts.

Negative Comments

Criticising your current school, teachers, or peers reflects poorly on you, not them.

Appearing Disinterested

Even if nervous, try to convey enthusiasm. Flat affect and minimal engagement suggest you do not really want to be there.

Not Having Questions

Saying you have no questions implies either arrogance or lack of genuine interest. Always prepare thoughtful questions.

Conclusion

A successful sixth form interview comes from genuine preparation combined with authentic self-presentation. Know yourself, know your subjects, know the college, and trust that your genuine enthusiasm and thoughtfulness will come through.

Remember that interviewers meet many candidates. Those who make an impression are typically not the slickest or most rehearsed, but those who show genuine curiosity, honest self-reflection, and real excitement about the opportunity ahead.

Prepare thoroughly, then relax and be yourself. That is truly the best strategy.