The specificity of Veterinary Science creates the need for an interview which carefully measures a candidate’s suitability to the course.

Although the format of the interview largely depends on the university, it is likely to follow one or more widely-used structures. The most well-known formats are the panel interview and the one-on-one interview. Such interviews are likely to begin with typical introductory interview questions which look to gain an insight into your personality and why you have applied to that particular university. Your answers should be clear, structured and positive, thus signifying careful preparation and enthusiasm, and where appropriate, should relate to your compatibility to veterinary studies.

Following this, they will want to see that you possess the necessary knowledge and understanding to succeed on the course. You will be asked more scientific and veterinary related questions, offering you an opportunity to showcase your relevant proficiency. As such, it is important to make sure that you are clued up on your A-level work, as they may ask what specific areas you have been studying, or refer to topics which have been covered in your syllabus. Revisiting your work can help to prevent any inaccuracies slipping into your answers. As well as questions relating to your previous academic work, contextual knowledge is also desirable.

Questions in the interview

The interviewer is therefore likely to ask for your opinions on current veterinary issues in the press, or hot topics such as animal experimentation, farming methods, or quarantine laws. Regularly checking the news for any examples of these issues will stand you in a strong position to confidently respond to such questions. Be prepared to answer questions on ethics, doing so with sensitivity and an appreciation of both sides of the argument. As well as your academic experience, the interviewer will ask you questions about your relevant work experience. By giving this question some forethought, you can draw upon specific incidents in your placements which guided your understanding of the veterinary profession. It also provides an opportunity for you to refer to moments which tested you, and how you worked to resolve these.

Some universities will require you to undertake Multiple Mini Interviews, either as an alternative or in addition to a face-to-face interview. These involve you rotating around stations where you will be presented with a scenario or role-play, or a calculation/data handling task, which you are required to respond to. In these situations, it is important to display good communication skills and empathy, as well as the ability to draw upon relevant knowledge. If you feel like your response at the previous station could have been better, try not to think about it, and instead focus on how you can impress at the next one. Occasionally, teamwork assessments will also be made, which require confidence, diplomacy, and strong communication skills.

Preparation and research are key to successful interviews for a Veterinary Science course. As well as revisiting work you have completed, and relevant issues in the press, it is a good idea to look for typical questions asked, online or through a tutor, enabling you to plan appropriate responses, and impress interviewers with your delivery.