English Interview Preparation
Interview Preparation
For international school and boarding school admissions, the English interview is a key component of the selection process alongside written examinations. Many schools also require parent interviews and group discussions in addition to the student interview. ELT provides realistic mock interviews and personalised feedback tailored to the interview format of each target school — from UK boarding schools to international schools in Japan and overseas — so that your child can face the interview with confidence.
Interview Preparation Quick Facts
| For | Students / Parents |
| Format | In person / Online (Zoom, etc.) |
| Language | English (some Japanese support available) |
| Duration | 50–60 minutes per mock interview session |
| Target Admissions | UK boarding schools / International schools in Japan / International schools overseas |
ABOUT
What Is Assessed in the Interview?
Admissions interviews evaluate not only English ability but also the character, motivation, and educational values of both the child and the family. ELT prepares students and families for three interview formats: student interviews, parent interviews, and group discussions.
Student Interview
In the student interview, candidates are asked about their motivation for applying, interests and hobbies, future goals, and experiences at school. Beyond English self-expression, interviewers look for the ability to communicate ideas logically and engage in natural conversation. ELT not only prepares answers to anticipated questions but also develops the ability to think on the spot and respond flexibly to unexpected questions.
Parent Interview
In the parent interview, families are asked about their educational philosophy, their child's character and strengths, reasons for choosing the school, and expectations for the school community. Schools use this to assess whether the family's values align with the school's educational ethos. ELT helps families articulate their strengths in English with clarity and conviction, supported by mock interview practice.
Group Discussion / Assessment Day
Some schools conduct group discussions or assessment days involving multiple candidates. These evaluate teamwork, leadership, active listening, and the ability to discuss ideas in English. ELT practises effective ways to contribute to group conversations, express opinions, and engage constructively with others.
OUR APPROACH
ELT's Interview Preparation
School-Specific Mock Interviews
We thoroughly research the interview format and question history of each target school and conduct mock interviews that closely replicate real conditions. Detailed feedback from the interviewer's perspective helps refine answer content, delivery, and demeanour.
Drawing Out Your Child's Own Voice
Rather than memorised answers, we cultivate the ability to express personal experiences and thoughts in natural English. Interviewers want to hear an authentic voice, so we guide students towards distinctive, genuine responses.
Parent Interview Preparation
We help families organise their educational philosophy and reasons for applying in English, refining their expression for maximum impact. Mock interviews for parents are also conducted, building the confidence to perform calmly and assuredly.
Building Confidence and Communication Skills
Repeated practice eliminates interview anxiety and builds the confidence to speak English fluently and naturally. We also coach non-verbal communication including eye contact, tone of voice, and posture.
Pricing
PRICING
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend starting 1–3 months before the interview date. If there are concerns about basic English ability, an earlier start is advisable. Multiple mock interview sessions allow us to progressively improve both the quality of answers and overall confidence.
Yes. Interviews value the willingness to communicate and express ideas more than flawless English. ELT provides guidance matched to your child's current English level, building expressive ability at a comfortable pace.
Yes, we offer preparation for parent interviews on their own. We help families understand what schools look for in parents, then practise expressing educational values and motivations in English. Combined preparation for both student and parent interviews is also available.
Yes, all sessions are available online via Zoom or similar platforms. As many schools now conduct online interviews, online mock interviews also serve as excellent practice for the real format. This service is widely used by families based overseas.
Enquire About Interview Preparation
We will recommend the best preparation plan based on your child's target school and interview timing. Start with a free consultation.