The interview stage is a key part of the UK boarding school admissions process. For many families, especially those applying from overseas, it’s also the most unfamiliar. Whether your child is applying for Year 7, Year 9, or Sixth Form, interviews give schools a chance to get to know applicants beyond the exam results and they offer your child a chance to shine.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect from boarding school interviews, common questions, and how to help your child prepare with confidence.

Why Do Schools Interview Pupils?

Boarding schools aren’t just looking for academic results. They want pupils who will thrive in their community children who are curious, kind, motivated, and open to new experiences. The interview is a way for them to assess character, attitude, communication skills, and cultural fit.

Some interviews are informal conversations with a headteacher, while others are more structured and include group tasks or scenario-based questions. At Sixth Form level, there may also be academic discussions linked to chosen subjects.

Our admissions support includes interview preparation tailored to each school’s approach and style.

Common Boarding School Interview Questions

While every school is different, here are some common types of questions your child may be asked:

• Tell me about yourself. What are your interests?

• Why do you want to come to this school?

• What subjects do you enjoy and why?

• How do you handle challenges or setbacks?

• Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.

• What would you bring to our school community?

• Who do you admire and why?

At Sixth Form level, questions may dive deeper into academic motivation and future aspirations especially if applying for competitive courses or scholarships.

We help students prepare through mock interviews and coaching, so they feel calm, confident, and ready to be themselves.

Top Tips for Parents

Supporting your child doesn’t mean scripting their answers. Instead, focus on building their confidence and helping them reflect on who they are. Some tips:

• Encourage natural conversation at home about school, hobbies, and goals

• Talk through possible questions without pressure to memorise

• Help them understand the school’s values and what makes it different

• Practice sitting down for a short ‘chat’ with an adult even just 10–15 minutes at a time

• Remind them to make eye contact, smile, and speak clearly

International families should also prepare for online interviews, making sure devices are working and surroundings are quiet.

Conclusion

Boarding school interviews are not about having the ‘perfect’ answer they’re about helping your child show who they really are. With the right preparation and support, interviews can be a positive, even enjoyable, step in the admissions journey.

If you’d like help preparing for upcoming interviews or understanding what each school is looking for, book a consultation with our team. We’ll help your child feel confident, prepared, and ready to make a great impression.