Common English Interview Questions

English interviews are an essential part of the journey to taking the IELTS test, studying abroad, applying for scholarships, or pursuing international career opportunities. For many students, this isn’t just a language test—it’s also an evaluation of confidence, critical thinking, and self-presentation skills.

This article compiles the most common English interview questions typically found in the IELTS Speaking test—from simple personal questions in Part 1 to more in-depth discussions in Part 3. IDP will help you analyze question types, provide sample answers, and share useful vocabulary so you can impress examiners and effectively demonstrate your English abilities.

1.1. Can you introduce yourself?

This is one of the most common opening questions in any interview. The purpose is for the examiner (or recruiter) to get to know you and assess your communication and information structuring skills. Introduce yourself briefly and highlight achievements, strengths, or relevant experience.

Sample answer: My name is Linh, and I’m currently a final-year student majoring in Business Administration at Hoa Sen University. I’m originally from Da Nang, but I’ve been living in Ho Chi Minh City for the past four years. I would describe myself as a proactive and detail-oriented person who enjoys working in diverse environments. I’m particularly interested in marketing and communications, which is why I’m very excited about this opportunity.

High-scoring vocabulary & structures:

• major in...

• a proactive and detail-oriented person

• particularly interested in...

1.2. What are your strengths?

This question allows interviewers to evaluate whether your qualities and skills align with the position or program you're applying for. Focus on your genuine strengths and illustrate them with a specific situation or achievement.

Sample answer: One of my key strengths is being highly adaptable. I can quickly adjust to new environments, tasks, or challenges. For example, when I started my internship, everything was completely new to me, but I was able to quickly learn the ropes and integrate into the team within just a few weeks. I believe this flexibility helps me thrive in dynamic situations.

Useful vocabulary:

• highly adaptable

• learn the ropes (idiom)

• integrate into...

• thrive in...

1.3. What are your weaknesses?

This common yet tricky question assesses your self-awareness, honesty, and your efforts to improve. Choose a non-critical weakness and focus on what you're doing to overcome it.

Sample answer: One weakness I've been actively working on is procrastination. In the past, I sometimes used to put off tasks until the last minute, which occasionally led to unnecessary stress. To overcome this, I've started using a daily planner and breaking down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. I also set strict personal deadlines.

Useful vocabulary:

• procrastination

• put off

• break down into

• reducing my stress levels

1.4. What are your short-term and long-term goals?

This question evaluates your vision, planning skills, and commitment. Structure your answer clearly: short-term (1–3 years) and long-term (5–10 years). Make sure your goals follow the SMART principles.

Sample answer: In the short term, I'm really aiming to enhance my project management skills. I plan to take an online certification course and gain more experience leading small teams. This will support my long-term goal, which is to start my own sustainable fashion business and create a meaningful impact on the industry.

Useful vocabulary:

• project management skills

• sustainable fashion business

• ethical production practices

1.5. Can you tell me about your experience?

A chance to talk about important experiences—academic, professional, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities.

Sample answer: Certainly. My most recent significant experience was a six-month internship as a content creator at a digital marketing agency. I was responsible for drafting articles and social media posts. One memorable project involved researching sustainable fashion, which improved my research skills and time management significantly.

Useful vocabulary:

• content creator

• social media posts

• sustainable fashion

• meet tight deadlines

• audience engagement

1.6. Do you work well under pressure?

This question tests your ability to stay productive and focused under stress.

Sample answer: Yes, I believe I work very well under pressure. I see it as a motivator rather than a hindrance. When faced with tight deadlines, I stay calm, prioritize tasks, and communicate clearly with my team. For example, I once led a project with an aggressive timeline, and we successfully delivered everything on schedule.

Useful vocabulary:

• hindrance

• faced with...

• aggressive timeline

• delegate effectively

1.7. What do you know about our company?

Demonstrates your preparation and genuine interest.

Sample answer: I know that [Company Name] is a leader in the [industry] sector and is renowned for [specific product/service]. I was particularly impressed by your recent initiative on [project]. I believe my skills in [your skill] align perfectly with your mission, and I’m eager to contribute to [specific area].

Useful vocabulary:

• renowned for...

• align perfectly with...

• customer satisfaction

• technological advancement

1.8. Why do you want this job?

Reveal your motivation and alignment with the company.

Sample answer: I'm genuinely excited about this position because it perfectly aligns with my skills in [Skill]. I'm especially drawn to your innovative approach to [e.g., sustainable technology], which resonates with my values. I believe this role offers great opportunities for growth and contribution.

Useful vocabulary:

• excited about

• drawn to...

• innovative approach

• resonates with

• contribute my expertise

1.9. Do you have any questions for us?

Always prepare 2–3 meaningful questions to show your interest.

Sample answer: Yes, I do. First, what qualities do you consider most important for someone to succeed in this role? And second, what are the development opportunities for this position?

Useful vocabulary:

• qualities

• growth opportunities

• within the company

1.10. Do you prefer to work alone or in a team?

Show flexibility and awareness of different work settings.

Sample answer: I believe I can work effectively both individually and in teams. I enjoy team collaboration for brainstorming and creative input, but I also value the focus and autonomy of working alone. I adapt based on the task and aim to be productive in both situations.

Useful vocabulary:

• team setting / individual setting

• brainstorming ideas

• diverse perspectives

• autonomy

• maximize productivity

1.11. What are your plans for the future?

Express both personal and professional growth aspirations.

Sample answer: My long-term plan is to become a recognized expert in [Your Field] and take on leadership roles. I want to keep learning and adapt to new technologies. I see this position as a valuable stepping stone toward that goal.

Useful vocabulary:

• recognized expert

• leadership roles

• stepping stone

• challenging work

• seeking growth opportunities

• Maintain a positive and professional attitude: Smile, make eye contact (~70–80% of the time), and stay confident.

• Use body language effectively: Sit up straight, avoid crossing arms, and gesture naturally.

• Listen carefully: Don’t rush your answer. Pause briefly to process. If unclear, use:

  • Could you please rephrase that question?

  • I’m not entirely sure I understand. Could you explain?

  • So, if I understand correctly, you're asking about...?

Be Interview-Ready in English with IDP

Thorough preparation for English interview questions is a smart strategy—not only for job interviews but also as a foundation for achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test. Master the structure, practice consistently, and apply the tips above to turn stress into an opportunity to shine.

If you’re preparing for the IELTS exam, IDP offers premium prep courses, practice resources, flexible test schedules, and a wide range of test centers.

When you're ready, register for your IELTS test with IDP and start your journey toward success today!