Interview Guide

Interview Guide

Introduction

Transferring to a new high school is a major decision, whether you’re moving for academic reasons, relocating geographically, or simply seeking a better personal or social fit. In New South Wales, many high-performing, selective, or independent schools include an interview as part of their transfer process.

While this might sound intimidating, it’s actually a great opportunity. It’s your chance to move beyond grades and show who you really are: your passions, your strengths, your growth mindset, and your potential.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to prepare, practise, and perform well in a NSW high school transfer interview.

Schools want to:

  • Understand why you're applying to transfer
  • See if your academic goals and learning style fit the school
  • Learn about your personality, interests, and how you’ll contribute to the school culture
  • Gauge your resilience, independence, and readiness for change

It's also your chance to decide if the school matches your needs and goals.

Tips for Success

Research the School

Read the school’s website carefully: look at their values, programs, achievements, and extracurriculars. Find something that genuinely excites you about the school and mention it.

Know Your Reasons

Be clear on why you’re transferring. Is it academics? Social reasons? Relocation? Make sure your reason is honest and respectful of your current school while highlighting your aspirations.

Reflect on Your Strengths and Challenges

Think of examples where you’ve shown resilience, teamwork, leadership, or self-improvement.

Rehearse, But Don’t Memorise

Practise answering questions with a parent or friend. Focus on sounding natural, not scripted.

Prepare Questions to Ask

Schools like students who are thoughtful and engaged. Prepare 2–3 questions that show you’ve done your homework.

Example Questions and Responses

“Tell me about yourself.”

What it means: Interviewers ask this question to get a snapshot of who you are as a person: your interests, personality, and school life. They want to get a sense of what makes you you.

How to answer: Keep it balanced. Mention your academic interests, personal qualities, and a hobby or two. Focus on what feels most authentic.

Sample answer:

“Sure! I’m a Year 9 student who really enjoys English and Drama. I love storytelling and performing. I’d say I’m pretty creative and enthusiastic, especially when working on group projects. Outside of school, I enjoy painting and playing the guitar. I also recently started helping out at a local dog rescue on weekends, which I’ve found really meaningful.”

“Why do you want to come to this school?”

What it means: Interviewers are looking for your motivation. They want students who have researched and have a clear reason for transferring that aligns with what the school offers.

How to answer: Be specific: mention programs, culture, values, or learning style. Avoid general statements like “because it’s a good school.”

Sample answer:

“I’m really looking for a school where I can be more challenged academically and also be part of a strong learning community. What stood out to me about your school was the science extension program and the way students are encouraged to take initiative in extracurricular clubs. I feel like the school’s focus on curiosity and independence really matches the way I like to learn.”

“What is your favourite subject and why?”

What it means: This question looks for your passion and curiosity. They want to see what lights you up academically and how you engage with learning.

How to answer: Be specific. Share the subject, a moment or topic you enjoyed, why you enjoyed it, and what it revealed about how you learn.

Sample answer:

“My favourite subject is Geography because I love understanding how human behaviour interacts with the environment. We recently did a project on climate change impacts on urban areas, and I really enjoyed researching and presenting on how small changes in design can make a big difference. I liked how practical and relevant the topic felt.”

Quick Checklist Before the Interview

  • I know why I’m transferring and can explain it clearly
  • I’ve researched the school’s values, programs, and culture
  • I’ve practised common interview questions
  • I’ve prepared 2–3 questions to ask the school
  • I’ve reflected on my strengths, challenges, and interests
  • I’ve chosen neat, appropriate clothes to wear
  • I have my documents printed and ready
  • I’ve had a good night’s sleep and a proper meal

Final Words

At the end of the day, the interview isn’t a test. It’s a conversation! The school wants to get to know you as a whole person. They’re not looking for perfection, but they are looking for honesty, self-awareness, and enthusiasm.

If you prepare thoughtfully, practise your responses, and walk in with confidence, you’ll give yourself the best possible chance to make a strong and memorable impression.

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