What is the 13+ Interview?
The 13+ interview represents a crucial component of the independent school admissions process for students transitioning to senior schools at age 13. Unlike academic examinations that test knowledge and skills, the interview provides schools with an opportunity to assess a candidate's personality, interests, communication abilities, and potential fit within their community.
Most independent senior schools conduct 13+ interviews as part of their selection process, typically alongside the Common Entrance examination or scholarship assessments. The interview carries significant weight in admissions decisions, particularly when distinguishing between academically strong candidates. Schools use this personal interaction to identify students who will thrive within their specific environment and contribute positively to school life.
Students typically face one or two interviews, each lasting between 15 and 30 minutes. The format varies considerably between schools, with some conducting formal panel interviews whilst others prefer conversational one-to-one sessions. Understanding what schools seek through these interviews helps families prepare effectively for this important stage.
Who Takes the 13+ Interview and Why?
The 13+ interview primarily applies to students moving from preparatory schools to independent senior schools at age 13, following the traditional independent school pathway. This includes students sitting Common Entrance, scholarship examinations, or school-specific assessments for entry into Year 9.
Students typically attend interviews during Year 7 or early Year 8, approximately 12-18 months before their intended entry date. This timeline allows schools to assess candidates well in advance and make conditional offers based on subsequent examination performance. Many highly selective schools interview all registered candidates, whilst others may shortlist students based on preliminary assessments or preparatory school recommendations.
The interview serves multiple purposes beyond academic evaluation. Schools assess whether students demonstrate genuine interest in their institution, possess the maturity required for senior school life, and exhibit qualities that align with school values. For boarding schools, interviews also evaluate whether candidates show readiness for the boarding environment. This personalised assessment helps schools build balanced year groups with diverse interests and complementary strengths.
Interview Format and Structure
The 13+ interview varies significantly in format depending on the school, though most follow recognisable patterns. Students typically encounter:
- One-to-one interviews with a senior member of staff, often the head, deputy head, or head of year
- Panel interviews involving two or three staff members, potentially including housemasters or subject specialists
- Subject-specific discussions for scholarship candidates, focusing on particular academic interests
- Informal conversations during campus tours or whilst meeting current students
Most interviews last between 15 and 30 minutes, though scholarship interviews may extend to 45 minutes when incorporating subject discussions. Schools typically schedule interviews during weekday mornings or early afternoons, often combined with tours and opportunities to observe lessons.
Unlike examinations, interviews do not follow standardised scoring systems. Schools assess candidates holistically, noting impressions about communication skills, enthusiasm, maturity, interests, and potential contribution to school life. Interviewers typically document observations and recommendations rather than assigning numerical scores. The weight given to interview performance varies by institution, but most schools consider it alongside academic results, preparatory school references, and assessment day observations when making final decisions.
Assessment Timeline
The 13+ interview process follows a structured timeline aligned with senior school admissions cycles:
Year 6 (Age 10-11): Families typically register children with chosen senior schools, submitting initial applications and registration fees. Some schools cap registration numbers and operate on first-come-first-served basis, making early registration advisable.
Year 7 (Age 11-12): Schools begin inviting registered candidates for assessment days and interviews, usually between September and March. Many schools schedule these events during the autumn and spring terms, allowing adequate time to observe multiple candidates. Preparatory schools submit references during this period.
Year 8 (Age 12-13): Schools issue conditional offers based on interview performance, references, and any preliminary assessments. These offers typically require candidates to achieve specified Common Entrance grades or perform satisfactorily in school-specific examinations. Students sit final examinations in May or June, with results released in June. Schools confirm places shortly after receiving examination results.
This extended timeline allows families to visit multiple schools, students to develop their interests and skills, and schools to make considered admissions decisions. Planning ahead ensures families meet deadlines without unnecessary pressure.
Interview Content and Focus Areas
Interviewers typically explore several key areas during 13+ interviews, aiming to understand each candidate comprehensively:
Academic Interests and Achievements
Schools enquire about favourite subjects, recent topics studied, and what students find engaging about particular areas. Interviewers assess genuine enthusiasm rather than rehearsed responses. Questions might explore specific projects, books read independently, or intellectual curiosities beyond the curriculum. Scholarship candidates face more detailed subject discussions, potentially including problem-solving exercises or debates about academic topics.
Extracurricular Activities and Hobbies
Interviewers ask about sports, music, drama, art, and other interests, seeking evidence of commitment, teamwork, and passion. They explore what students enjoy about these activities and any achievements or challenges faced. This discussion helps schools identify how candidates might contribute to co-curricular programmes and school culture.
Personal Qualities and Character
Schools assess maturity, confidence, resilience, and interpersonal skills through conversation style and responses. Questions might explore how students handle challenges, work with others, manage time, or respond to setbacks. Interviewers observe listening skills, politeness, and ability to articulate thoughts clearly.
School Knowledge and Motivation
Candidates should demonstrate genuine interest in the school, referencing specific aspects that appeal to them. Interviewers explore why students wish to attend their institution rather than others, what they hope to gain from senior school, and how they envision contributing to the community. Generic responses suggesting insufficient research rarely impress.
Current Affairs and Broader Awareness
Some schools include questions about recent news, social issues, or topics beyond immediate academic study. These discussions assess intellectual curiosity, ability to form opinions, and awareness of the wider world. Students need not possess expert knowledge but should demonstrate thoughtful engagement.
Boarding Readiness (if applicable)
Boarding schools explore whether students understand boarding life, feel prepared for living away from home, and demonstrate appropriate independence. Questions might address previous experience away from family, ability to manage personal organisation, and enthusiasm for the boarding environment.
Preparation Strategy
Effective preparation for 13+ interviews balances structured planning with authentic personal development:
Research and School Knowledge
Students should thoroughly research each school they interview with, understanding its ethos, facilities, academic approach, and distinctive features. Visiting school websites, attending open days, and reading prospectuses provides valuable information. Families should discuss what genuinely appeals about each school, helping students articulate authentic reasons for their interest.
Articulating Interests and Experiences
Students benefit from reflecting on their interests, achievements, and experiences, practising how to discuss these naturally. Rather than memorising scripts, candidates should think about what they genuinely enjoy and why. Discussing recent books read, projects completed, or challenges overcome helps develop fluent responses. Families can support this by engaging in regular conversations about school life, hobbies, and interests.
Current Affairs Awareness
Regular engagement with age-appropriate news sources helps students develop broader awareness. Reading newspapers, watching news programmes, or discussing current events at home builds confidence discussing topics beyond immediate experience. Students need not possess comprehensive knowledge but should demonstrate curiosity and thoughtful engagement.
Practise Interviews
Mock interviews with teachers, tutors, or family friends help students become comfortable with the format. These practice sessions should feel conversational rather than interrogative, building confidence without creating anxiety. Constructive feedback on communication style, body language, and response quality proves valuable. However, excessive rehearsal risks producing mechanical responses lacking authenticity.
Timing and Intensity
Preparation should begin approximately two to three months before scheduled interviews, allowing adequate time without creating prolonged pressure. Regular short preparation sessions work better than intensive cramming. Most students benefit from one or two practice interviews and ongoing discussions about their interests and experiences rather than extensive drilling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Rehearsed Responses
Students who memorise scripted answers often sound unnatural and struggle when questions deviate from expected patterns. Interviewers recognise rehearsed responses immediately and value authentic conversation over polished performances. Candidates should prepare by reflecting on genuine interests rather than learning predetermined statements.
Insufficient School Research
Demonstrating limited knowledge about the school suggests lack of genuine interest. Generic comments applicable to any institution fail to impress. Students should reference specific features, programmes, or values that genuinely appeal to them, showing they have invested time understanding what makes each school distinctive.
Monosyllabic or Overly Brief Responses
Single-word answers or minimal responses prevent interviewers from assessing personality and interests effectively. Whilst students should avoid rambling, they should develop responses beyond simple yes or no answers. Explaining reasoning, providing examples, and expanding on points demonstrates communication skills and engagement.
Inappropriate Body Language or Demeanour
Poor eye contact, slouching, fidgeting excessively, or appearing disengaged creates negative impressions regardless of verbal responses. Students should practise sitting attentively, making appropriate eye contact, and demonstrating polite engagement. Nervousness is natural, but excessive anxiety that prevents effective communication requires additional support and practice.
Criticising Current School or Teachers
Negative comments about preparatory schools, teachers, or fellow students raise concerns about attitude and maturity. When discussing reasons for choosing senior school, students should focus on positive opportunities rather than complaints about current situations. Constructive discussion about seeking new challenges differs significantly from criticism.
Resources and Practise Materials
Several resources support effective interview preparation:
School Materials: Prospectuses, websites, and open day materials provide essential information about individual schools. Many institutions publish values statements, academic approaches, and facility details that inform preparation.
Current Affairs Resources: Age-appropriate news sources including First News, BBC Newsround, The Week Junior, and selected newspaper articles help develop broader awareness. Regular engagement matters more than intensive cramming.
Books on Interview Skills: Several publications offer guidance on school interview preparation, though generic materials should complement rather than replace school-specific research and authentic personal reflection.
Practise Opportunities: Preparatory schools often provide mock interviews as part of their senior school preparation programmes. Additional practice with experienced tutors offers valuable feedback and builds confidence.
Discussion Topics: Families can support preparation through regular conversations about books, current events, school experiences, and interests. These natural discussions develop articulation skills more effectively than formal drilling.
How Taylor Tuition Can Help
Taylor Tuition offers comprehensive 13+ interview preparation programmes tailored to each student's needs and target schools. Our experienced tutors work with families throughout the admissions process, providing:
Personalised Interview Coaching: We conduct practice interviews that replicate school formats whilst maintaining a supportive environment. Our tutors provide constructive feedback on communication style, response development, and presentation, helping students build confidence without creating anxiety.
School-Specific Preparation: Understanding that each school approaches interviews differently, we tailor preparation to reflect the specific institutions on your shortlist. We help students research effectively, identify distinctive features, and articulate genuine reasons for their interest in particular schools.
Communication Skills Development: Beyond interview-specific preparation, we focus on developing broader communication abilities including articulating ideas clearly, engaging in intellectual discussion, and demonstrating curiosity. These skills benefit students throughout their academic careers.
Current Affairs Discussion: Our tutors engage students in age-appropriate discussions about contemporary issues, helping develop confidence discussing topics beyond immediate experience. We encourage thoughtful engagement rather than superficial knowledge.
Holistic Admissions Support: Interview preparation forms part of our comprehensive approach to independent school admissions. We support families through registration, assessment preparation, examination tuition, and the entire admissions journey.
Building Authentic Confidence: We prioritise helping students present their genuine selves effectively rather than creating artificial personas. Our approach focuses on reflecting on real interests, experiences, and qualities whilst developing the communication skills to articulate these naturally.
Our tutors bring extensive experience with competitive independent school admissions, understanding what schools seek and how to help students demonstrate their potential. We work flexibly around busy schedules, offering sessions at times convenient for families.
To discuss how we can support your child's 13+ interview preparation, please visit our enquiry page or contact us directly. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your specific requirements and develop a preparation programme that builds confidence and maximises success.