🎒 Nailing the High School Interview: 5 Tips Every Student Should Know
- Timothy Lind
- Apr 17
- 3 min read
Applying to a private or competitive high school often includes more than test scores and transcripts—it includes the interview. For many students, this may be their first real interview experience. And while that can feel nerve-wracking, it’s also a golden opportunity to stand out.
At On the Write Track, we help students feel confident, prepared, and authentic during high school interviews. Here are five easy-to-follow high school interview tips that will help your child show up as their best self—whether it’s in-person or over Zoom.
High school interview tips
✨ 1. Know Who You Are—and Share It with Confidence
High school interviews aren’t about being perfect—they’re about showing who you are.
Students should be prepared to talk about:
Favorite subjects and why they enjoy them
Hobbies, clubs, or interests outside of school
What kind of learner they are or what they hope to explore
What excites them about going to high school
🗣️ Example: “I love math because I like solving puzzles. I’m also really into robotics, and I’d love to join a robotics club in high school.”
Help your child practice talking about themselves in their own words. It should sound natural—not memorized.
🏫 2. Learn About the School Before You Show Up
Schools want to know why your child wants to attend their campus—not just any school.
Before the interview, students should:
Visit the school’s website
Write down at least 2–3 things they’re excited about (a class, club, or tradition)
Think about how the school aligns with their interests and values
🎯 Example: “I noticed your school has a leadership program. I’ve always been interested in student government, so I’d love to be part of that.”
This shows maturity and genuine interest—two things every admissions team looks for.
🧠 3. Practice Common Questions
Preparation makes all the difference. Help your child prepare answers for questions like:
“Tell me about yourself.”
“What do you like to do outside of school?”
“What are you most excited for in high school?”
“What has been a challenge for you, and how did you handle it?”
“How do you handle conflict or disagreement with others?”
🎤 Do mock interviews at home to help your child feel more confident speaking clearly and calmly.
Encourage them to answer in full sentences—and to be themselves.
👕 4. Dress Neatly and Set the Right Tone
For in-person interviews, choose neat, age-appropriate clothes that show respect for the occasion (think: school photo outfit).
For Zoom interviews:
Wear a solid-colored shirt
Sit in a quiet, well-lit room
Test the tech setup ahead of time
Make eye contact by looking at the camera
👀 Tip: Practice a firm handshake and a friendly greeting. A warm smile goes a long way.
💌 5. End with Gratitude and a Good Impression
Good manners matter. Before leaving, encourage your child to thank the interviewer:
“Thank you for taking the time to meet with me.”
“I really enjoyed learning more about the school.”
“I hope I’ll get the chance to attend.”
For older students, a short thank-you email (with help from a parent) can be a great touch.
🙏 Politeness, confidence, and sincerity leave a lasting impression—sometimes more than a perfect answer.
🎯 The Interview Is a Conversation—Not a Test
Remind your child: they’re not being judged—they’re being understood. High school interviews are about seeing potential, personality, and how well a student might fit within the school’s environment.
At On the Write Track, we coach students to speak with confidence, tell their stories with clarity, and feel proud of who they are. With the right prep, they’ll walk into the room feeling ready—and leave with their heads held high.
Have a high school interview coming up?
👉 Ask us about our personalized interview prep sessions for middle schoolers and incoming freshmen.
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