Queen’s University Interview Preparation
Master the interview process with expert tips, sample questions, and proven strategies from Dr. Karan Gupta
Interview Format
Format
Queen's may interview for select programs including commerce (Smith School of Business), engineering, and some professional graduate programs. Many programs use supplementary essays.
Duration
20-30 minutes
Interviewers
Admissions staff, faculty, or alumni
Interview Style & Expectations
Conversational and values-based — reflecting Queen's strong community culture
What Queen’s Looks For
Sample Interview Questions
Personal
What does community mean to you, and how have you contributed to one?
Tip: Queen's has one of the strongest university communities in Canada. Show you value and contribute to community.
Why Queen's University for your studies?
Tip: Reference the tight-knit campus, specific programs, or the Kingston community atmosphere.
What do you hope to gain from the Queen's experience beyond academics?
Tip: Think about networking, alumni connections, campus traditions, and personal growth.
Situational
Describe a time you took on a leadership role outside of academics.
Tip: Show impact and initiative. Queen's values well-rounded individuals who lead in multiple contexts.
How do you balance academic demands with other commitments?
Tip: Queen's students are known for being involved. Show you can manage multiple priorities effectively.
Preparation Strategy
Do's - Preparation Tips
- Queen's has one of the most engaged alumni networks in Canada — mention this as a genuine draw
- The Smith School of Business (Commerce program) is highly competitive and uses interviews
- Kingston is a small university city — embrace the campus-focused experience in your application
- Queen's traditions (Homecoming, Tricolour) create a unique institutional identity
Don'ts - Common Mistakes
- Applying to Queen's without understanding its community-oriented culture
- Not addressing extracurricular involvement — academics alone are not enough for competitive programs
- Being unaware of Queen's specific traditions and what makes it culturally distinctive
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