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Interview days in the Department of Chemistry

For students who are based in the UK, we make it a policy always to interview applicants before we make an offer. This is because we believe the interview experience is extremely important in helping to decide which university you ultimately choose to attend. Interviews are not only aimed at finding out more about you, they are very much an opportunity for you to find out about us, during your visit you will:

• have a look at our teaching facilities
• meet members of staff and current students
• have a look around the campus, including a student study bedroom
• have the opportunity to ask any questions from members of our admissions team 

We aim to make these days as informative, interesting and relaxing as possible, and of course, we are very happy for you to bring one or two parents or guests along too if you wish to do so. We run a separate programme for guests so that they too can experience what the University of York Department of Chemistry has to offer.

It was really nice that the whole visit felt so personal and friendly and an excellent opportunity to see the Chemistry Department

Chemistry Applicant 2011

A Typical interview

Interviewers typically start by asking you specific questions about your personal statement (for example, your interest in a particular area of Chemistry, including practical work) and your reasons for applying to York. Then moving on to more open-ended questions about the study of Chemistry.

We are looking primarily for skills and to assess your potential to do well at York. To help you perform at your best, we suggest that you read through your UCAS personal statement, think over what you’ve studied in Chemistry so far and what has particularly interested you.

It might also be useful for you to practice explaining why you are so passionate about Chemistry that you want to study it to degree level, and why you have applied to York. The importance of being enthusiastic cannot be underestimated!

Consider preparing some things that you would like to tell us, and also think about some questions (either course specific and/or more general questions about student life) you would like to ask us.

Timing

We hold interview days two or three times each week between October and February.

Our interview day usually starts at 1.00pm, and we invite all applicants and guests to a free sandwich lunch in the Department from 12.30pm. On arrival, you will be greeted by Katrina Sayer, our Admissions Officer.

• UCAS student programme 2012/3 (PDF , 22kb)
• UCAS parent programme 2012/3 (PDF , 12kb)

We always aim to finish our programme by 4.00pm so that those applicants who have travelled long distances are able to return home the same day. We hope that by the end of the day you will have enjoyed your visit to York, and have learnt something about what we have to offer.

Dress code

We hope your interview day will be relaxed and informal and we do not have a dress code so please wear whatever feels most comfortable.