Graduate Interview Questions: How To Answer and Prepare

Getting ready for your graduate school interview? Use these commonly asked questions to help you prepare.

As you gear up for graduate school, there's much to consider. One thing that you can prepare for ahead of time is your graduate school interviews. While this may seem stressful, knowing what questions interviewers commonly ask can help you find answers beforehand.

Graduate School Interview Questions

Going into an interview with uncertainty can be nerve-wracking, putting unnecessary stress on the situation. By having a bit of a heads-up on what questions you may have to answer, you can feel more confident in your conversation.

While this doesn't include every topic that might come up, here are some graduate school interview questions and example responses to help you prepare:

Tell me about yourself

While there are tough interview questions, this is generally an easy one to answer. Simply introduce yourself with information about your undergraduate studies and what academic interests you have.

Example answer:

“I recently completed my undergraduate degree in biology, with a focus on molecular genetics. Throughout my studies, I have always been drawn to research, especially in gene therapy and its potential applications in treating inherited diseases. My academic journey has been driven by curiosity and a passion for science that has grown with every course and lab I've taken. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering with local STEM outreach programs, which has inspired me to continue learning and contribute positively to my field.”

How will you contribute to our program?

Speak to your particular gifts and talents, highlighting how they will benefit the program you're applying to.

Example answer:

“I believe I'll bring a strong combination of academic knowledge, practical lab experience, and a collaborative spirit. My background in molecular genetics aligns well with the research interests of your faculty, and I am eager to share my insights and learn from others in the program. Additionally, I enjoy fostering a positive lab environment and frequently organize study groups, which help build a supportive learning community. I look forward to contributing my skills and enthusiasm to both research and peer engagement.”

What are your research interests?

Whether you have one or several, chat through the topics you're most interested in diving deeper into through your graduate studies.

Example answer:

"My primary research interest is in gene therapy, specifically its application in treating genetic disorders. I am fascinated by the potential to repair or replace faulty genes at a molecular level, which could transform the way we approach diseases like cystic fibrosis or muscular dystrophy. I'm also intrigued by the ethical implications and regulatory challenges of this field and hope to explore these issues alongside technical research."

How have your undergraduate studies prepared you for this program?

Here, you can go into more detail about your time in undergrad, showcasing what this time taught you and how you plan to use this knowledge in the future.

Example answer:

"My undergraduate program emphasized both theory and practical lab work, which allowed me to build a strong foundation in genetics and molecular biology. Courses like Advanced Molecular Genetics and hands-on labs in CRISPR technology have given me the technical skills needed to excel in a research environment. Additionally, the rigorous coursework helped me develop strong analytical skills, which I know will be valuable as I engage with complex topics in your graduate program."

Have you worked on any projects that are particularly relevant to this program?

For this question, answer with personal examples of your most intriguing and significant school projects, talking through challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

Example answer:

"Yes, during my undergraduate studies, I completed a research project on the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing system, where I investigated its efficacy in targeting specific genes related to cancer. This experience taught me a lot about precision in lab work, as well as how to document and analyze data effectively. Given that your program offers courses and lab projects in gene therapy, I feel this project has prepared me well to contribute meaningfully."

What is your greatest academic achievement? 

Here is your moment to show off a bit! Discuss relevant successes you've experienced and what went into earning those achievements.

Example answer:

"My greatest academic achievement was presenting my undergraduate thesis at a national conference. My department selected my project on CRISPR and gene targeting, and presenting it was a great opportunity to gain feedback from leading experts in the field. I was proud of the work and also thrilled by the chance to discuss my research with others who share my enthusiasm for genetic studies."

Why do you want to pursue this degree?

Share personal stories or reasons why this program is a good fit for you and how this degree will serve you for years to come.

Example answer:

"I'm excited to pursue this degree because it will allow me to deepen my expertise in molecular genetics and work closely with professionals who are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in gene therapy. I see this program as an essential step to becoming a leading researcher in the field, and I am eager to develop both the technical skills and theoretical understanding needed to contribute to advancements in genetic medicine."

What are your short- and long-term career goals?

This question can help the interviewer see how forward-thinking you are. Provide a few examples of goals that you have and how this program will help you achieve them.

Example answer:

"In the short term, I want to excel in this graduate program, focusing on developing my skills in genetic research and laboratory techniques. Long term, I aim to become a research scientist in gene therapy, contributing to advancements that could make a real difference in treating genetic diseases. Ultimately, I'd love to lead a research team, potentially at a university or research institute, where I can mentor others and continue contributing to scientific discovery."

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Like the previous question, this is your chance to explain how the program will drive your career goals. Talk about your aspirations and what you'd like to be doing professionally in the future.

Example answer:

"In five years, I hope to be working as a research scientist, ideally in a lab focused on genetic therapies. I want to be actively engaged in research projects, publishing my findings, and collaborating with experts in the field. I also hope to be a part of interdisciplinary initiatives that bridge genetics with other areas like bioinformatics, as I believe cross-disciplinary research can lead to more innovative solutions."

What specific aspects of our program interest you the most?

Chat about any particular classes or subject matter that you're most intrigued by and why. You could relate it to your undergraduate studies and career goals to round out your explanation.

Example answer:

"I'm especially interested in your program's focus on gene therapy and your renowned faculty, whose research aligns closely with my own interests in genetic editing. I also appreciate the interdisciplinary approach your program encourages, which will allow me to work alongside professionals in bioinformatics and regulatory sciences, areas crucial to the success of genetic therapies in clinical settings. The access to cutting-edge facilities is another draw, as I'm eager to work with the latest tools and technologies in the field."

How do you handle challenges and setbacks in your studies?

Speak to genuine struggles you've faced during your undergraduate schooling and walk the interviewer through the steps you took to problem solve and get back on track.

Example answer:

"When facing challenges, I find it helpful to break the problem into smaller, manageable parts and seek feedback from mentors or peers if possible. During my thesis project, for example, I encountered unexpected results in my data that set my research back temporarily. I reviewed the methodology, consulted with my advisor, and identified minor adjustments that helped resolve the issue. I view setbacks as learning opportunities and try to approach them with a growth mindset, always ready to adapt my strategy if needed."

Preparing for Your Interviews: Tips and Best Practices

It helps to know what style of questions you may receive during your graduate school interview. However, you might still be feeling some pressure. While it's completely normal to be nervous—it is a big deal, of course—we've compiled a list of interview tips and best practices to help you take your preparation one step further:

• Research the program thoroughly: Because you'll most likely answer questions about certain aspects of the program you're applying to, make sure you can answer them confidently by doing a deep dive into the school and program.

• Prepare your answers to common questions: While we provided example answers to common graduate school interview questions, it could be helpful to create your own responses beforehand.

• Reflect on your motivation and fit: The faculty member or admissions committee conducting the academic interview will talk to many students. Stand out by connecting every question to your personal student experiences and motivations.

• Prepare questions for the interviewers: At the end of the discussion, the interviewers will leave space for you to ask questions. Come prepared with a few intriguing and relevant questions so they know you're interested and engaged.

• Practice behavioral and situational questions: Have someone help you do a practice interview where they ask about specific scenarios and how you'd handle them. This will help you feel ready to answer these styles of questions if they come up.

• Be professional but genuine: Yes, it's good to have a sample answer for multiple queries beforehand, but don't just recite them mechanically. Make sure you sound genuinely interested in the graduate admission interview while still getting your point across.

• Prepare for virtual interviews: If you're doing a virtual interview, make sure you have a quiet space, a professional background, and clear sound so the digital experience is good for everyone involved.

• Practice, practice, practice: Do at least one mock interview where someone runs through common questions so you can get comfortable answering slowly and confidently.

• Follow up after the interview: After the grad school interview, it's always good to reach out to thank the faculty member for their time and state your excitement about hearing back from them soon.

Gear Up for Grad School at MCPHS

Are you ready to further your education and grow professionally? Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) is the place to do so. Graduate applicants will be able to advance their careers by learning from knowledgeable professionals and getting hands-on industry experience. We have graduate counselors who can help you discover the best opportunities for your specific career goals and interests.

Ready to take the next step in your education? Apply to start your graduate school journey today.