27 Aug How to Prepare for a School Interview: Questions & Tips

After eight years as a registrar in an independent school and more than 5,000 enrolment interviews from pre-Kindergarten to Year 12, Bruce Perry has seen it all. Here he explains how to prepare for a school interview, what parents and children can expect, and some of the questions students may be asked.

What’s the purpose of a school interview?

I believe this is worth knowing, as it can frame the way you approach the interview. The purpose can change from system to system and school to school, but the main elements are generally the same:

• For the school and family to learn more about one another and consider whether the school is a good fit for the student.
• To gain a sense of school readiness for Kindergarten entry.
• To understand the student’s learning and support needs and discuss any reasonable adjustments that may be required.
• To get to know the student beyond what can be found on an application and school reports.
• For the school to explain the nuts and bolts of how it works and the distinguishing features it offers.
• For parents to find out anything they need to know. The interview is not necessarily the first time to decide whether the school’s values, atmosphere and approach are right for your family – choosing then right school, school tours and open days can help with this well before the interview stage.
• To explain the enrolment process and when the school may be able to offer a place.

Advice for parents

• Be on time. If you’re running late, phone the school and let them know. Allow plenty of travel time so you and your child arrive feeling relaxed and ready for the meeting.
• Be flexible when arranging the interview. Many school interviews take place during school hours.
• Provide relevant information. Make sure the school has the information it needs to understand and support your child. This might include recent school reports and, where appropriate, specialist reports, information about learning or health needs, and any NAPLAN reports requested by the school.
• If your child has a disability or requires additional support, being open about their needs can help you and the school discuss reasonable adjustments and how they can best be supported.
• Let your child answer for themselves. If a question is directed towards your child, resist the temptation to jump in. Give them time to answer and be themselves.
• Ask questions. Make sure you raise anything you would like to know, but also listen carefully to the answers. If something occurs to you afterwards, you can always follow up with the school.

How children can prepare for a school interview

• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Don’t worry if you’re nervous. Most students are.
• Dress neatly and comfortably. Your current school uniform is usually fine if it is worn neatly. Otherwise, smart-casual clothes are suitable. If you are unsure, check whether the school provides interview guidance.
• Be ready to talk about yourself. Explain your answers and speak as clearly as you can, but don’t feel you have to give a perfect response.
• Know something about the school. Look at the school’s website, attend a tour if possible and think about why you would like to go there. It can also help to talk with your child about starting at a new school and what they can expect.
• Greet the interviewer politely and listen carefully. Try to engage naturally rather than worrying about getting everything exactly right.
• Use your best manners. Say please and thank you, and use the name or title the interviewer gives you.
• Put phones and other devices away. Keep them on silent and out of sight during the interview.
• Be honest. If you don’t know the answer to something, it is fine to say so. Remember, there are not necessarily right or wrong answers.

Common school interview questions

The following are examples of questions that may be asked of students enrolling in Years 3 to 11.

Parents can help children think about the kinds of subjects that might come up, but there is no need to rehearse perfect answers. Encourage your child to speak clearly and, where possible, give more than a simple “yes” or “no”.

• What are your favourite or best subjects?
• Are there any subjects or work habits you would like to improve?
• What do you want to do when you leave school?
• Why are you interested in our school?
• What did you like about the school if you have been on a tour?
• Who in your life has been the greatest influence on you?
• What could you contribute to our school?
• Tell me about a challenge you have overcome.
• What do you do for fun in your spare time?
• What are your hobbies and interests?
• What do you see yourself doing in 10 years’ time?
• Do you believe your school reports reflect your ability and effort? Explain.
• Do you enjoy reading? What books do you read?
• Do you have a favourite author or series?
• Can you recommend a good book, website, app or game?
• Is there anything you could have done differently at school?
• Tell me about your family. Do you have siblings?
• Have you ever been in serious trouble at school, or been suspended or expelled?
• Do you have any health or wellbeing needs that may affect you at school?
• Have you received learning or academic support at school?
• Is there any learning, health or wellbeing support that would be helpful for the school to know about?

A school may ask about learning, health or wellbeing needs that could affect a child’s schooling or the support they may require. Parents should provide relevant information honestly and can ask the school how sensitive information will be used if they are unsure.

Kindergarten interviews

Kindergarten enrolment interviews vary considerably between schools and should not be seen as a test that a child needs to study for.

The focus may simply be on getting to know your child and gaining a sense of their readiness for school.

Depending on the school, your child may be asked to:

• Count to 10.
• Write their name.
• Identify some letters or numbers.
• Recognise colours.
• Draw something.
• Take part in an activity or be observed while playing.

The best preparation is usually to keep the experience relaxed and positive rather than drilling your child on what they should say or do.

Remember: it’s a two-way conversation

A school interview is not only about a school assessing your child. It is also an opportunity for your family to learn more about the school.

Listen to what is being said, ask the questions that matter to your family and think about whether the school feels like a place where your child will be supported, challenged and happy.

Originally published in 2014, this article has been lightly edited and updated for the web in 2026.