Preparing for your interview, audition, or portfolio submission
You'll receive details about your interview, audition, or portfolio submission via email. We'll send this to the email address you included on your application. Remember to check your junk email inbox.
When you book your interview or audition slot, we’ll send you a confirmation email. It will include the date, time, and location of your interview, and what you need to bring or prepare.
If you can't make any of the available slots, don't worry – get in touch and we'll do our best to accommodate you: applicant.interviews@sunderland.ac.uk.
Your subject (A-Z)
How to prepare
You'll be expected to prepare a portfolio of your creative work which shows what you have done so far and what interests you. We're not looking for perfection as we appreciate you're still developing work – we're interested in your creative potential.
Your portfolio
Your portfolio should be a PowerPoint presentation, ZIP file or links to websites or videos. Here are some of our top tips:
- Remember it's about quality not quantity – aim for between 10-20 pieces of your work.
- Display a range of styles and techniques.
- Show us work completed in or outside of your studies.
- Include ideas that didn't work.
- Demonstrate your research, for example, design sheets or sketchbooks/scrapbooks of things that inspire you.
- Include photographs of 3D or large 2D work.
- We also like to see uncompleted or work in progress.
If you're applying for more than one course, make sure your portfolio demonstrates work relevant to both/all.
To upload your portfolio, please log into your myApplication portal to view any outstanding actions and navigate to the checklist section. Here you'll have the option to upload a document.
Please contact admissions@sunderland.ac.uk for further portfolio guidance.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
We aim to make our Audiology interviews as relaxed as possible, as it’s our opportunity to learn more about you and your interest in Audiology. It’s also a chance for you to ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course, or the application process.
If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive an email containing your interview date and time. We'll aim to provide you with an interview date as soon as possible, however this can take up to three weeks during holiday and busy periods. You'll also receive a text message as a reminder – if you've updated your number or are unsure if you've used the correct number, please contact us as soon as possible and we can update your record.
How to prepare
We recommend you do some research into current discussions, problems, and challenges within healthcare. We also encourage you to research Audiology at the University. As our course is accredited by the National School of Healthcare Science, we'd encourage you to read about their Practitioner Training Programme to learn more.
You may want to consider the rationale for choosing this career and how your personality lends itself to this occupation. Reflect on what attracted you to the profession and show you've researched the career, and you understand the role. You'll need to back up your answers with personal experiences. For example, delivering care in a professional environment, voluntary, caring for family members, or volunteering with youth groups.
What to expect on the day
Your interview will take place online via Microsoft Teams and will take no longer than 30 minutes. A link to join the interview meeting will be in your interview confirmation email.
You’ll participate in a panel interview, and this will be conducted by academic staff, NHS Trust Clinicians, and Patient, Carer and Public Involvement (PCPI) representatives.
What to bring
Please have a form of photographic identification for your interview (for example, passport, student card, or driving licence). Please note marriage certificates do not count as identification.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
We aim to make our Cardiac Physiology interviews as relaxed as possible, as it’s our opportunity to learn more about you and your interest in Cardiac Physiology. It’s also a chance for you to ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course, or the application process.
If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive an email containing your interview date and time. We'll aim to provide you with an interview date as soon as possible, however this can take up to three weeks during holiday and busy periods. You'll also receive a text message as a reminder – if you've updated your number or are unsure if you've used the correct number, please contact us as soon as possible and we can update your record.
How to prepare
We recommend you do some research into current discussions, problems, and challenges within healthcare, and to look at the NHS structure, organisational values, and principals. We also encourage you to research Cardiac Physiology at the University. Investigating patient-centred care and how this will apply in a healthcare setting will also help you prepare for your interview.
You may want to consider the rationale for choosing this career and how your personality lends itself to this occupation. Reflect on what attracted you to the profession and show you've researched the career, and you understand the role. You'll need to back up your answers with personal experiences. For example, delivering care in a professional environment, voluntary, caring for family members, or volunteering with youth groups.
Further resources include:
- Academy of Healthcare Science
- National School of Healthcare Science
- Society for Cardiac Science and Technology.
What to expect on the day
Your interview will take place online via Microsoft Teams and will take no longer than 30 minutes. A link to join the interview meeting will be in your interview confirmation email.
You’ll participate in a panel interview, and this will be conducted by academic staff, NHS Trust Clinicians, and Patient, Carer and Public Involvement (PCPI) representatives.
What to bring
Please have a form of photographic identification for your interview (for example, passport, student card, or driving licence). Please note marriage certificates do not count as identification.
Your interview
Congratulations on being shortlisted for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
Our Community and Youth Work interviews give you the chance to come in and meet the team you’ll be taught by, as well as others who’ve applied for the same course.
This is your opportunity to get familiar with the surroundings on campus, to understand how your course is structured, and to show us your passion for the subject. There are often current students present too, so you can ask them any questions you may have on the day.
How to prepare
We'd advise you to research some current key issues or recent discussions surrounding the community and youth work sector in advance of your interview.
As part of the interview process you'll complete an individual interview with one of our academics. You'll be required to answer a variety of questions, which you'll be provided with shortly ahead of your interview date, so you can prepare accordingly. Think about your understanding of community and youth work and how you can demonstrate the values you can bring and your motivation and commitment to becoming a community and youth worker.
What to expect on the day
You’ll meet a member of the interview team in the Wearside View foyer. From here, we'll escort you to your interview where you'll meet a member of the community and youth work team and will receive a course overview presentation.
Following this, you'll be allocated an individual interview slot.
Individual interview
During the individual interview, you'll be asked a range of straightforward and open questions giving you an opportunity, based on your experience and values, to demonstrate your attributes. This is your opportunity to tell us more about yourself and why you would be a great candidate for the course. Questions will be provided ahead of your interview.
You can expect to be on campus for a full morning or afternoon, depending on the group size and your allocated individual interview slot.
During your visit, you'll also be given the option to take a campus tour.
What to bring
Please have a form of photographic identification for your interview (for example, passport, student card, or driving licence). Please note marriage certificates do not count as identification.
Dress code
Please dress smartly for your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Registration is in the foyer area of Wearside View Building, which is part of our Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's. If you're driving, we recommend you park in the car park just off Charles Street, SR6 0AN. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website. If you're travelling by Metro, the nearest station is St Peter's or Stadium of Light.
Your interview
Congratulations on being shortlisted for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
Our Education interviews give you the chance to come in and meet the team you’ll be taught by, as well as others who’ve applied for the same course. Our Education staff are friendly and welcoming, and the interview process is a relaxed one.
This is your opportunity to get familiar with the surroundings on campus, to understand how your course is structured, and to show us your passion for the subject. There are often current students present too, so you can ask them any questions you may have on the day.
How to prepare and what to expect on the day
We would advise applicants to research some current key issues or recent discussions within the education sector, in advance of your interview.
Primary Education and Secondary Education pre-interview tasks
Artefact (pre-interview task)
Please bring with you an artefact that could be used in a classroom context to stimulate learning.
Be prepared to explain how you could use this to engage pupils and develop interest in the relevant age group. Your artefact could be (for example) a story, a poem, a picture, or an object.
You'll have a maximum of five minutes to explain:
- The age group of children you would use it with or the specific subject it would incorporate
- How you would introduce it into the classroom environment
- What specific learning it would inspire or develop
What to expect on the day
You’ll meet a member of the interview team and a Student Ambassador in the Wearside View Building foyer. From here, we'll escort you to your interview where you'll meet a member of the Education team and have a course overview. Parents and supporters are welcome to join you on the day and can participate in the course overview and campus tour.
You'll then take part in a group task with the other candidates, where you'll have open discussions about Education and the skills you think are relevant to the role of the teacher in your chosen age group. Don’t feel like you need to have all the answers, we're interested in you as a person and want to know why this is the chosen route for you.
The group task will be followed by an individual interview with an academic. During this interview, you'll be asked a range of open questions giving you an opportunity, based on your experiences, to demonstrate your values, attributes, and desire to teach in the sector. Depending on the size of the group, you can expect to be on campus for a half day (either a full morning or full afternoon). There'll be a campus tour included.
English and Maths tasks
You'll complete an English and Maths task as part of the interview process. These are used as a formative assessment tool to begin your subject knowledge development. Please note, these tasks are relatively basic, they're not exams that require revision beforehand. Both the English and Maths tasks will be circulated and completed on the day as part of the interview.
Please note online interviews will only be offered under special circumstances and will follow a similar format to on campus interviews, with relevant online adjustments made.
PGCE in Further Education and Skills (FES) pre-interview tasks
*Please note if you have applied for the Durham Sixth Form route, you'll be contacted by the college once you have booked your interview slot, and the requirements may be different.
Assignment
You're required to complete a pre-interview task to bring with you on the day. This task will require an understanding of teaching in its broadest sense and an awareness of the need to be inclusive.
You should write around 1,000 words on the following:
"What do you believe the purpose of education to be?”
Here are some points of discussion that you may wish to refer to:
- The Further Education and Skills sector
- Equality and diversity
- Barriers to learning
- Economic growth or contributions to the workplace
- Personal fulfilment
- How people learn
- Progression to the workplace or higher education
You may include literature references in this discussion to support your argument.
What to expect on the day
You’ll meet a member of the interview team in the Wearside View foyer. From here, we'll escort you to your interview where you'll meet a member of the FES team and have a course overview.
The interview process will start with a presentation to cover the frequently asked questions about the course and give you a chance to learn more about what you'll be studying. This includes content of modules, possible times of when you'll be at university, information about our pathways and a group task. You may wish to bring a notebook to take down any important information and we'll make sure that you get a copy of the presentation slides.
You'll then take part in a group task with the other candidates, where you'll have open discussions about lesson planning and developing knowledge in the FES sector.
Following this group task, you'll have a one-to-one interview with a member of the FES team. During your interview, you'll be asked a range of open questions giving you an opportunity, based on your experiences, to demonstrate your values, attributes, and desire to teach in the FES sector. This will include talking about what subject(s) you may want to teach for your placement experience. You'll also have the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have about the course. Depending on the size of the group, you can expect to be on campus for a half day (either a full morning or full afternoon).
English and Maths comprehension task
You'll be asked to complete a short literacy and numeracy task, which will be circulated and completed on the day as part of the interview process. If you require any adjustments to complete this task please let us know as soon as possible.
Please note online interviews will only be offered under special circumstances and will follow a similar format to on campus interviews, with relevant online adjustments made.
What to bring
Please have a form of photographic identification for your interview (for example, passport, student card, or driving licence). Please note marriage certificates do not count as identification.
Don’t forget to prepare your pre-interview task and bring this with you on the day:
- An artefact for Primary and Secondary Education courses
or
- Your completed assignment for the PGCE Further Education and Skills (FES) course
Dress code
Please dress smartly to your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Registration is in the foyer area of Wearside View Building, which is part of our Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's. If you're driving, we recommend you park in the car park just off Charles Street, SR6 0AN. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website. If you're travelling by Metro, the nearest station is St Peter's or Stadium of Light.
How to prepare
You'll be expected to prepare a portfolio of your creative work which shows what you have done so far and what interests you. We're not looking for perfection as we appreciate you're still developing work – we're interested in your creative potential.
Your portfolio
Your portfolio should be a PowerPoint presentation, ZIP file or links to websites or videos. Here are some of our top tips:
- Remember it's about quality not quantity – aim for between 10-20 pieces of your work.
- Display a range of styles and techniques.
- Show us work completed in or outside of your studies.
- Include ideas that didn't work.
- Demonstrate your research, for example, design sheets or sketchbooks/scrapbooks of things that inspire you.
- Include photographs of 3D or large 2D work.
- We also like to see uncompleted or work in progress.
If you're applying for more than one course, make sure your portfolio demonstrates work relevant to both/all.
To upload your portfolio, please log into your myApplication portal to view any outstanding actions and navigate to the checklist section. Here you'll have the option to upload a document.
Please contact admissions@sunderland.ac.uk for further portfolio guidance.
How to prepare
You'll be expected to prepare a portfolio of your creative work which shows what you have done so far and what interests you. We're not looking for perfection as we appreciate you're still developing work – we're interested in your creative potential.
Your portfolio
Your portfolio should be a PowerPoint presentation, ZIP file or links to websites or videos. Here are some of our top tips:
- Remember it's about quality not quantity – aim for between 10-20 pieces of your work.
- Display a range of styles and techniques.
- Show us work completed in or outside of your studies.
- Include ideas that didn't work.
- Demonstrate your research, for example, design sheets or sketchbooks/scrapbooks of things that inspire you.
- Include photographs of 3D or large 2D work.
- We also like to see uncompleted or work in progress.
If you're applying for more than one course, make sure your portfolio demonstrates work relevant to both/all.
To upload your portfolio, please log into your myApplication portal to view any outstanding actions and navigate to the checklist section. Here you'll have the option to upload a document.
Please contact admissions@sunderland.ac.uk for further portfolio guidance.
How to prepare
You'll be expected to prepare a portfolio of your creative work which shows what you have done so far and what interests you. We're not looking for perfection as we appreciate you're still developing work – we're interested in your creative potential.
Your portfolio
Your portfolio should be a PowerPoint presentation, ZIP file or links to websites or videos. Here are some of our top tips:
- Remember it's about quality not quantity – aim for between 10-20 pieces of your work.
- Display a range of styles and techniques.
- Show us work completed in or outside of your studies.
- Include ideas that didn't work.
- Demonstrate your research, for example, design sheets or sketchbooks/scrapbooks of things that inspire you.
- Include photographs of 3D or large 2D work.
- We also like to see uncompleted or work in progress.
If you're applying for more than one course, make sure your portfolio demonstrates work relevant to both/all.
To upload your portfolio, please log into your myApplication portal to view any outstanding actions and navigate to the checklist section. Here you'll have the option to upload a document.
Please contact admissions@sunderland.ac.uk for further portfolio guidance.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview. We're really looking forward to meeting with you.
Our Journalism interviews are relaxed and friendly and are designed as an opportunity to get to know you. It's also a chance for you to ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course, or the application process.
We often have a Student Ambassador in attendance as well, who are there to share their experience and to support you on the day. If you haven’t already, you'll soon receive an email with our available interview dates. Please book your place as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Interviews will either be held in person at one of our campuses, or online interviews can be requested. If your interview is scheduled to take place online, you’ll receive all information and the link for the interview in your confirmation email.
How to prepare
- Consider what attracted you to the course you are applying for. Check out the course details on the University website before you attend to support with this.
- Make sure you're aware of the main national news or sports stories in the week running up to your interview.
- Think about the type of content you particularly enjoy and be prepared to talk about any writing/reporting you've done, including video or audio content if relevant.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
We aim to make our Midwifery interviews as relaxed as possible, as it’s our opportunity to learn more about you and your interest in Midwifery. It’s also a chance for you to see our fantastic facilities and ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course, or the application process.
We often have Student Ambassadors in attendance as well, who are there to share their experiences and to support you on the day. If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive an email containing your interview date and time. We'll aim to provide you with an interview date as soon as possible, however this can take up to three weeks during holiday and busy periods. You'll also receive a text message as a reminder – if you've updated your number or are unsure if you've used the correct number, please contact us as soon as possible and we can update your record.
When will my interview take place?
Interviews are scheduled to take place February 2026.
How to prepare
We recommend you do some research into current discussions, problems, and challenges within healthcare. We also encourage you to research Midwifery Practice at the University. As our course is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), we'd also advise you to visit the NMC website to learn more.
You may want to consider the rationale for choosing this career and how your personality lends itself to this occupation. Reflect on what attracted you to the profession and show you've researched the career, and you understand the role. You'll need to back up your answers with personal experiences. For example, delivering care in a professional environment, voluntary, caring for family members, or volunteering with youth groups.
What to bring
You'll need to bring your photographic ID with you. You're also allowed to bring beverages with you, however we ask they're in a closed container.
Dress code
Please dress smartly to your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Your Midwifery Practice interview will take place at our City Campus.
You can reach us by car, bus, train or Metro. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website.
If you're travelling by Metro, the nearest station is University for City Campus.
What to expect on the day
Prior to your interview you’ll receive full details of the meeting point and times via email. Please allow up to two hours for your interview, which will consist of a discussion-based group activity, an individual Multiple Mini Interview (MMI), and a tour of the facilities.
Upon arrival to your interview, you’ll meet a member of the interview team or a Student Ambassador who'll register your attendance. You’ll participate in the group activity, followed by the MMI. Both elements of your interview will be assessed by a member of the Midwifery Practice academic team and a Patient, Carer and Public Involvement (PCPI) participant.
The group activity is a 30-minute collaborative, discussion-based task with a group of up to four candidates, where you'll explore the role of a midwife. You'll be assessed on your values, problem-solving, communication, and team-working skills. In the MMI, you'll move between four timed stations, where you'll be asked four different questions. The questions are designed to give you the opportunity, based on your experience, to demonstrate your skills, attributes and understanding of current issues and challenges within midwifery and healthcare in general. You'll be assessed on your values, communication skills, and the knowledge and skills relevant to the role of a midwife. You'll also have the opportunity to ask any questions about the course. The MMI will take up to 30 minutes.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
We aim to make our Nursing interviews as relaxed as possible, as it’s our opportunity to learn more about you and your interest in Nursing. It’s also a chance for you to see our fantastic facilities and ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course, or the application process.
We often have Student Ambassadors in attendance as well, who are there to share their experiences and to support you on the day. If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive an email containing your interview date and time. We'll aim to provide you with an interview date as soon as possible, however this can take up to three weeks during holiday and busy periods. You'll also receive a text message as a reminder – if you've updated your number or are unsure if you've used the correct number, please contact us as soon as possible and we can update your record.
How to prepare
We recommend you do some research into current discussions, problems, and challenges within healthcare. We also encourage you to research Midwifery Practice at the University. As our course is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), we'd also advise you to visit the NMC website to learn more.
You may want to consider the rationale for choosing this career and how your personality lends itself to this occupation. Reflect on what attracted you to the profession and show you've researched the career, and you understand the role. You'll need to back up your answers with personal experiences. For example, delivering care in a professional environment, voluntary, caring for family members, or volunteering with youth groups.
What to bring
You'll need to bring your photographic ID with you. You're also allowed to bring beverages with you, however we ask they're in a closed container.
Dress code
Please dress smartly to your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Your Nursing interview will take place at our City Campus and we'll let you know the location in your interview confirmation email.
You can reach us by car, bus, train or Metro. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website.
If you're travelling by Metro, the nearest station is University for City Campus.
What to expect on the day
Prior to your interview you’ll receive full details of the meeting point and times via email. Please allow up to two hours for your interview, which will consist of a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) and a tour of the facilities.
Upon arrival to your interview, you’ll meet a member of the interview team or a Student Ambassador at the meeting point, who'll register your attendance. You’ll then begin the MMI, which will be assessed by a member of the Nursing academic team, an NHS Clinician, and a Patient, Carer and Public Involvement (PCPI) participant.
In the MMI, you'll move between three timed stations, where you'll be asked three different questions. The questions are designed to give you the opportunity, based on your experience, to demonstrate your skills, attributes and understanding of current issues and challenges within nursing and healthcare in general. You'll be assessed on your values, communication skills, enthusiasm, and passion for the role of an Adult, Mental Health, or Children’s Nurse. You'll also have the opportunity to ask any questions about your chosen course. The MMI will take up to 30 minutes.
Please note if you are applying for more than one nursing course, you'll only need to attend one interview.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview, we are really looking forward to meeting you.
We aim to make our Occupational Therapy interviews as relaxed as possible, as it’s our opportunity to learn more about you and your interest in Occupational Therapy. It’s also a chance for you to see our fantastic facilities and ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course or the application process.
We often have Student Ambassadors in attendance as well, who are there to share their experiences and to support you on the day. If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive an email containing your interview date and time. We'll aim to provide you with an interview date as soon as possible, however this can take up to three weeks during holiday and busy periods. You'll also receive a text message as a reminder – if you have updated your number or are unsure if you have used the correct number, please contact us as soon as possible and we can update your record.
When will my interview take place?
Out interviews will run from early December until late April. We receive a high volume of applications for this course, and interview places are often limited. If you’re unable to attend your interview, please contact us as soon as possible so that we can (where possible) book you onto an alternative date and offer your interview slot to another applicant.
Please note failure to attend your interview without notifying the University, may result in your application being withdrawn.
How to prepare
We would recommend you do some research into current discussions, problems and challenges within healthcare. We would also encourage you to research Occupational Therapy at the University of Sunderland. As our course is accredited by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT), we would also encourage you to visit the RCOT website to learn more.
You may want to consider the rationale for choosing this career and how your personality lends itself to this occupation. Reflect on what attracted you to the profession and show you have researched into the career, and you understand the role. You'll need to back up your answers with personal experiences. This can come from a number of examples delivering care in a professional environment, voluntary, caring for family members or volunteering with youth groups.
Our Admissions Tutor Bryony Cooper has filmed a short Master Your Occupational Therapy Masterclass which covers how to prepare for your interview, what to expect on the day and what we look for at interview. You may wish to review the masterclass before your interview.
What to expect on the day
On-campus interviews
Please allow the full morning or afternoon for your interview, which will consist of a group activity followed by an individual interview. The group activity is a discussion-based task comprised of current issues within healthcare.
At the beginning of the day you'll meet a member of the interview team. We'll escort you to your interview where you will meet a member of academic staff and have a course overview, this will be followed by the interview.
Prior to your interview, you must prepare a poster that demonstrates one of your personal attributes that best reflects the profession of Occupational Therapy. This needs to be one side of A4 paper, please bring a paper copy of your poster to your interview and be prepared to discuss it during the group element of your interview. You’ll have roughly one minute to present. The poster can be designed digitally, or hand drawn. If you foresee issues with printing your poster, please email a copy to applicant.interviews@sunderland.ac.uk the day before your interview. Please include your name, the course you have applied for, and the date and time of your interview.
Your interview will be assessed by a member of the Occupational Therapy academic team and a Patient, Carer and Public Involvement (PCPI) participant. The group activity is a discussion-based task with up to five candidates, where you'll demonstrate your understanding of current issues and challenges within healthcare. You'll also carry out an activity where you'll be assessed on your values, problem-solving and communication skills. The group activity will last around 45 minutes.
In your individual interview you’ll be asked a range of questions surrounding Occupational Therapy to gauge your underestimating of the profession. You’ll be asked a range of straightforward open questions, giving you an opportunity, based on your experience, to demonstrate your attributes and values. The individual interview will last around 20 minutes.
We strongly encourage you to attend your on-campus interview, as this is your chance to experience the campus and meet us in person. However, we do offer a limited number of online interviews. These are for students that have extenuating circumstances or live a substantial distance from the University and are unable to travel to the campus. Online interviews are considered on a case-by-case basis. If you have been allocated an online interview your interview will take place online.
Online interviews
Prior to your interview, you must prepare a PowerPoint presentation that demonstrates one of your personal attributes that best reflects the profession of Occupational Therapy. This needs to be one slide and you’ll need to be prepared to discuss it during the group element of your interview. You’ll have roughly one minute to present. The day before your interview, please send a copy of your presentation to Bryony.Cooper@sunderland.ac.uk. Please include your name and the date and time of your interview.
Online interviews will take place on Microsoft Teams and will follow the same structure as our on-campus interviews. You'll receive the link to the welcome/course overview in your confirmation email. Within the course overview you’ll be provided with a second link, this will be the link for your group activity and individual interview. During your group activity you'll be provided with your individual interview timeslot. At the allocated time you'll re-join the interview meeting.
What to bring
You're welcome to bring a notebook to prepare for your interview, however you won't be allowed to refer to this during your interview. You can bring beverages with you, however we ask they're in a closed container.
Dress code
Please dress smartly to your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Your Occupational Therapy interview will take place at our City Campus in either The John Dawson Sciences Complex or Helen McArdle House.
You can reach us by car, bus, train or Metro. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website.
If you are travelling by Metro, the nearest station is University for City Campus.
View our AccessAble accessibility guides for support with planning your journey.
When will I learn the outcome of my interview?
We aim to let you know the outcome of your interview within seven working days after their interview. If you do not hear back after seven working days please contact applicant.interviews@sunderland.ac.uk.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
We aim to make our Paramedic Science interviews as relaxed as possible, as it’s our opportunity to learn more about you and your interest in Paramedic Science. It’s also a chance for you to see our fantastic facilities and ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course, or the application process.
We often have Student Ambassadors in attendance as well, who are there to share their experiences and to support you on the day. If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive an email containing your interview date and time. We'll aim to provide you with an interview date as soon as possible, however this can take up to three weeks during holiday and busy periods. You'll also receive a text message as a reminder – if you've updated your number or are unsure if you've used the correct number, please contact us as soon as possible and we can update your record.
When will my interview take place?
The University operates a gathered field admissions approach for our September intake onto Paramedic Science and Out of Hospital Care. This means we interview over a number of weeks and our interviews will take place on specified dates. You will be allocated an interview date and time.
We receive a high volume of applications for this course, and interview places are often limited. If you’re unable to attend your interview, please contact us as soon as possible so that we can (where possible) book you onto an alternative date and offer your interview slot to another applicant.
Please note failure to attend your interview without notifying the University may result in your application being withdrawn.
The interview dates are as follows:
- Friday 6 February
- Thursday 12 February
- Friday 13 February
- Monday 16 February
- Friday 20 February
- Monday 23 February
We will not be interviewing outside of these dates.
How to prepare
We recommend you familiarise yourself with the NHS values looking into the 6 C's of healthcare. Think about examples from your own life where you have demonstrated these values.
As our course is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), we would also encourage you to visit the HCPC website to learn more. Consider the role of protecting the public, standards of conduct, performance, and ethics.
Reflect on what attracted you to the profession and show you have researched the career, and you understand the role. As Paramedic Science is a professional course, consider what professionalism means and be prepared to discuss ethical concepts.
In addition to the HCPC website you might also wish to visit The College of Paramedics and the NHS Constitution.
You should have received a document titled Paramedic Science Interview Information in your confirmation email. This guide, written by Tony Jackson, our Admissions Tutor, contains valuable details about your upcoming interview, including what to expect and how best to prepare.
What to bring
You're welcome to bring a notebook to prepare for your interview, however you won't be allowed to refer to this during your interview. You can bring beverages with you, however we ask they're in a closed container.
Dress code
Please dress smartly to your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Your Paramedic Science interview will take place at our City Campus, in the Gateway Building.
You can reach us by car, bus, train, or Metro. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website.
If you're travelling by Metro, the nearest station is University for City Campus.
What to expect on the day
On-campus interviews
The individual interview lasts roughly 15 minutes, although this varies from applicant to applicant. You'll be asked a range of open questions, giving you an opportunity, based on your experience, to demonstrate your attributes and values.
When will I learn the outcome of my interview?
You’ll be notified after all eligible applicants have been interviewed, which may be March 2026.
Your audition
Congratulations on being invited for an audition, we are really looking forward to meeting with you.
You'll take part in a group audition day, and our friendly student recruitment team, Student Ambassadors and academics will be with you to make sure your audition is as stress-free as possible. If you haven’t already, you'll soon receive an email with our available interview dates. Please book on as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
How to prepare
You'll need to perform an audition piece that you've prepared and developed in advance. This needs to be something you're comfortable performing to other applicants during your audition day.
You'll be expected to perform one of the following based on the course you have applied for:
- BA (Hons) Performing Arts: This is a very varied course so we accept auditions in the form of many disciplines. A monologue, a dance, a song, or even a piece of comedy. We'd also be happy to see a combination of two or more disciplines.
- BA (Hons) Screen Performance: This course focuses on acting for screen so we would like to see a monologue for your audition.
We want you to shine and show us what you are capable of during your audition. We want to see your skills and where you could develop further, but also to see your confidence and your willingness to perform in front of others. You may want to rehearse your piece to family and friends before the day of your audition.
After you have performed, we might ask you questions about your piece such as:
- Why that monologue or song?
- How did you find the character?
- What do you like about this piece?
- How did you develop your audition piece?
We'll also ask you some interview questions about why you want to study your chosen course at this University.
What to bring
You'll need to bring any music you might need for your audition. We recommend you bring this on your phone.
Dress code
You don't need to wear formal interview attire to your Performance audition but you will need to wear clothing suitable to perform.
How to get here
Your Performance audition will take place at either our City Campus or our Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's. The campus you'll need to attend will depend on the course you have applied for – remember to check your confirmation email once you've booked your slot to see where you need to go.
You can reach us by car, bus, train or Metro. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website.
If you're travelling by Metro, the nearest stations are University for City Campus and St Peter's or Stadium of Light for the Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's.
What to expect on the day
You'll be with us for either a full morning or a full afternoon depending on the time of your audition.
We'll take you on a full campus tour at the start of the day, then you'll get the chance to meet academics and Student Ambassadors. You'll have time to warm up before your audition before you're called forward to perform your piece to the rest of the group. After you've performed you might be asked some questions about the piece. Finally, to finish the day, we'll have a one-to-one conversation to get to know you more.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
We aim to make our Pharmacy interviews as relaxed as possible, as it’s our opportunity to learn more about you and your interest in Pharmacy. It’s also a chance for you to see our fantastic facilities and ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course or the application process.
We often have Student Ambassadors in attendance as well, who are there to share their experiences and to support you on the day. If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive an email containing your interview date and time. We'll aim to provide you with an interview date as soon as possible, however this can take up to three weeks during holiday and busy periods. You'll also receive a text message as a reminder – if you've updated your number or are unsure if you've used the correct number, please contact us as soon as possible and we can update your record.
How to prepare
We advise you to research some recent discussions surrounding healthcare. We also encourage you to research Pharmacy at Sunderland. As our course is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), we'd also suggest that you visit the GPhC website to learn more.
You may want to consider the rationale for choosing this career and how your personality lends itself to this occupation. Reflect on what attracted you to the profession and show you've researched the career, and you understand the role. You'll need to back up your answers with personal experiences. This can come from various roles, such as delivering care in a professional environment, voluntary, caring for family members, or volunteering with youth groups.
What to bring
You don't need to bring anything with you for your interview. You're welcome to bring a notebook to prepare for your interview, however you won't be allowed to refer to this during your interview. You can bring beverages with you, however we ask they're in a closed container.
Dress code
Please dress smartly to your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Your Pharmacy interview will take place at our City Campus.
You can reach us by car, bus, train or Metro. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website.
If you're travelling by Metro, the nearest station is University for City Campus.
What to expect on the day
Please allow up to three hours for your interview. Parents and supporters are welcome to join you on the day and can participate in the course overview and tour.
You’ll meet a member of the interview team and a Student Ambassador. We'll escort you to your interview where you'll meet the Admissions Tutor and have a course overview.
You’ll participate in an interview, which will consist of questions around situational judgement and your reasoning of why you would like to become a pharmacist. The interview aims to identify personal and professional attributes rather than academic, which are equally important in a future pharmacist. You'll be assessed by a member of the pharmacy academic team. Please note there may be some numeracy based questions in your interview.
Your interview will conclude with a facilities tour.
We strongly encourage you to attend your on-campus interview, as this is your chance to experience the campus and meet us in person. However, we do offer a limited number of online interviews. These are for students that have extenuating circumstances or live a substantial distance from the University and are unable to travel to campus. Online interviews are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Online interviews will take place on Microsoft Teams. You’ll participate in a one-to-one interview by a member of the pharmacy academic team.
How to prepare
You'll be expected to prepare a portfolio of your creative work which shows what you have done so far and what interests you. We're not looking for perfection as we appreciate you're still developing work – we're interested in your creative potential.
Your portfolio
Your portfolio should be a PowerPoint presentation, ZIP file or links to websites or videos. Here are some of our top tips:
- Remember it's about quality not quantity – aim for between 10-20 pieces of your work.
- Display a range of styles and techniques.
- Show us work completed in or outside of your studies.
- Include ideas that didn't work.
- Demonstrate your research, for example, design sheets or sketchbooks/scrapbooks of things that inspire you.
- Include photographs of 3D or large 2D work.
- We also like to see uncompleted or work in progress.
If you're applying for more than one course, make sure your portfolio demonstrates work relevant to both/all.
To upload your portfolio, please log into your myApplication portal to view any outstanding actions and navigate to the checklist section. Here you'll have the option to upload a document.
Please contact admissions@sunderland.ac.uk for further portfolio guidance.
Your interview
Congratulations on being invited for an interview, we are really looking forward to meeting you.
We aim to make our Physiotherapy interviews as relaxed as possible, as it’s our opportunity to learn more about you and your interest in Physiotherapy. It’s also a chance for you to see our fantastic facilities and ask any questions you might have about the University, your chosen course or the application process.
We often have Student Ambassadors in attendance as well, who are there to share their experiences and to support you on the day. If you haven’t already, you’ll soon receive an email containing your interview date and time. We'll aim to provide you with an interview date as soon as possible, however this can take up to three weeks during holiday and busy periods. You'll also receive a text message as a reminder – if you have updated your number or are unsure if you have used the correct number, please contact us as soon as possible and we can update your record.
When will my interview take place?
Out interviews will run from early December until late April. We receive a high volume of applications for this course, and interview places are often limited. If you’re unable to attend your interview, please contact us as soon as possible so that we can (where possible) book you onto an alternative date and offer your interview slot to another applicant.
Please note failure to attend your interview without notifying the University, may result in your application being withdrawn.
How to prepare
We would recommend you do some research into current discussions, problems and challenges within healthcare. We would also encourage you to research Physiotherapy at the University of Sunderland. As our course is accredited by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) we would also encourage students to visit the CSP website to learn more.
You may want to consider the rationale for choosing this career and how your personality lends itself to this occupation. Reflect on what attracted you to the profession and show you have researched into the career, and you understand the role. You'll need to back up your answers with personal experiences. This can come from a number of examples delivering care in a professional environment, voluntary, caring for family members or volunteering with youth groups.
Our Admissions Tutors Chris Carter and John Stephens have filmed a short Master Your Physiotherapy Masterclass which covers how to prepare for your interview, what to expect on the day and what we look for in an interview. You may wish to review the masterclass before your interview. For the exact timestamps, please view the video on YouTube.
What to expect on the day
On-campus interviews
Please allow the full morning or afternoon for your interview, which will consist of a group activity followed by an individual interview. The group activity is a discussion-based task comprised of current issues within healthcare.
At the beginning of the day you'll meet a member of the interview team. We'll escort you to your interview where you will meet a member of academic staff and have a course overview, this will be followed by the interview.
Your interview will be assessed by a member of the Physiotherapy academic team and a Patient, Carer and Public Involvement (PCPI) participant. The group activity is a discussion-based task with up to five candidates, where you'll demonstrate your understanding of current issues and challenges within healthcare. You'll also carry out an activity where you'll be assessed on your values, problem-solving and communication skills. The group activity will last around 45 minutes.
We strongly encourage you to attend your on-campus interview, as this is your chance to experience the campus and meet us in person. However, we do offer a limited number of online interviews. These are for students that have extenuating circumstances or live a substantial distance from the University and are unable to travel to the campus. Online interviews are considered on a case-by-case basis. If you have been allocated an online interview your interview will take place online.
Online interviews
Online interviews will take place on Microsoft Teams and will follow the same structure as our on-campus interviews. You'll receive the link to the welcome/course overview in your confirmation email. Within the course overview you’ll be provided with a second link, this will be the link for your group activity and individual interview. During your group activity you'll be provided with your individual interview timeslot. At the allocated time you'll re-join the interview meeting.
What to bring
You're welcome to bring a notebook to prepare for your interview, however you won't be allowed to refer to this during your interview. You can bring beverages with you, however we ask they're in a closed container.
Dress code
Please dress smartly to your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Your Physiotherapy interview will take place at our City Campus, in either the John Dawson Sciences Complex or Helen McArdle House.
You can reach us by car, bus, train or Metro. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed. Alternative car parks can be found on the Sunderland City Council website.
If you are travelling by Metro, the nearest station is University for City Campus.
View our AccessAble accessibility guides for support with planning your journey.
When will I learn the outcome of my interview?
We aim to let you know the outcome of your interview within seven working days after their interview. If you do not hear back after seven working days please contact applicant.interviews@sunderland.ac.uk.
Next steps
We'll email you with the outcome of your interview and you'll also be able to view this decision on your myApplication portal(opens in new tab) and UCAS Hub(opens in new tab).
If you have a query about your application, please contact admissions@sunderland.ac.uk.
You'll also be invited to attend some on-campus applicant days to meet other applicants and take part in some workshops and taster sessions to give you an insight of what it's like to be a student at the University of Sunderland.
Questions
If you have any questions about your interview, audition, or portfolio, please contact us at applicant.interviews@sunderland.ac.uk or 0191 515 3374.
Your interview
Congratulations on being shortlisted for an interview, we're really looking forward to meeting you.
Our Social Work interviews give you the chance to come in and meet the team you’ll be taught by, as well as others who’ve applied for the same course.
This is your opportunity to get familiar with the surroundings on campus, to understand how your course is structured, and to show us your passion for the subject. There are often current students present too, so you can ask them any questions you may have on the day.
How to prepare
As social work is a regulated profession and successful completion of the course gives you basis to apply for registration with the English regulator, Social Work England, it would be a good idea to familiarise yourself with Social Work England's website.
We would advise you to research some current key issues or recent discussions surrounding the social work sector in advance of your interview.
You'll be required to complete an assessed group discussion with other applicants as well as an individual interview. During the interview, it’s important you show some understanding of social work and can demonstrate what values you can bring and your motivation and commitment to becoming a social worker.
What to bring
Please have a form of photographic identification for your interview (for example, passport, student card, or driving licence). Please note marriage certificates do not count as identification.
Dress code
Please dress smartly to your interview, but ensure that you're comfortable.
How to get here
Registration is in the foyer area of Wearside View Building, which is part of our Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's. If you're driving, we recommend you park in the car park just off Charles Street, SR6 0AN. In your confirmation email, you'll receive a free parking permit. Please note a parking space is not guaranteed.
If you're travelling by Metro, the nearest stations are St Peter's or Stadium of Light for the Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's. If you've travelled by train and arrived at Sunderland station, you can take the Metro, or it is approximately a 10-15 minute walk.
What to expect on the day
You’ll meet a member of the interview team and a Student Ambassador in the Wearside View foyer. From here, we'll escort you to your interview where you'll meet a member of the social work team and have a course overview.
You'll then take part in a group task with the other candidates, where you'll be asked to discuss a specific topic in relation to social work practice, and you'll be assessed on your individual participation. The group task will last approximately 45 minutes. Following this, you'll be allocated an individual interview slot.
Individual interview
During the individual interview, you'll be asked a range of straightforward and open questions giving you an opportunity, based on your experience and values, to demonstrate your attributes. This is your opportunity to tell us more about yourself and why you would be a great candidate for the course.
Please be aware that your individual interview slot may be a significant amount of time after the group task (this will depend on the group size of applicants), but it will take place the same day. During this time, you'll have the opportunity to chat with staff and Student Ambassadors. You'll also be given the option to take a campus tour.
Please note that any individual requests for specific interview timeslots should be made prior to the day of interview. We'll try to accommodate such requests, but cannot guarantee this.
Both your group discussion and individual interview will be scored by staff and co-educators and offers will be made based on these scores.
The interview day will start at 9:30am and you can expect to be on campus for a full day, depending on the group size and your allocated individual interview slot. Interviews will finish by 4:30pm.
Please note online interviews will only be offered under special circumstances and will follow a similar format to on campus interviews, with relevant online adjustments made.