Engineering University Interview Questions

Sample university interview questions for an engineering degree

When it comes to an Engineering interview there are a variety of different types of questions that you could be asked. Pure engineering, academic, electrical, and mechanics questions are all possibilities.

You may also be asked to complete a practical piece of work and sketch something such as a graph or curve sketch. Don’t worry about this aspect of your interview. Not all universities use this method and some universities will warn you before your interview that you’ll be asked to complete a practical task.

As well as the engineering related questions there are also the standard questions asked in most university interviews regardless of which course you’re applying for. Questions such as“Why do you want to study Engineering?”and“Why do you want to study at this university?”are bound to be asked so you need to have a clear answer prepared for them.

Here are some examples of engineering specific questions that you could be asked during your interview:

What are the fundamental differences between Engineering and Physics?

The interviewer wants to see that you have researched and fully understand your subject. Being able to use examples of the differences between the two disciplines will show that you have at least a basic understanding of the subject.

What considerations would you need to make when designing a bridge?

Scenario questions are becoming increasingly popular with the top universities and they use these broad questions to see how you think. You’ll need to walk the interviewer through your thought process and explain why you would make the engineering considerations that you give.

What are your hobbies/extra-curricular activities/sports you play?

As engineering is usually a new subject to potential students universities cannot ask too many straight engineering questions. This means that you need to be prepared answer questions about your hobbies, sports, and life outside of education.

The interviewer wants to get a better idea of the type of person you are and what you can offer the university on top of your academic contributions. Remember, university life isn’t just about the grades you get. 

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