Interview
Questions
PhD Interview Questions
Interview questions for PhD and graduate research program admissions 2026. Covers research experience, methodology, future plans, and fit with advisor.
Describe your research interests and how they have evolved.
What research question would you like to explore in your PhD?
What experience do you have with teaching or mentoring, and how would you approach it during your PhD?
How do you see your research contributing to the field?
Why are you interested in pursuing a PhD? What drives your passion for research?
Tell me about your previous research experience and how it has prepared you for this program.
Can you describe a time when you were stuck in your research? How did you overcome it?
What is your proposed research topic and why is it important to the field?
How do you handle receiving critical feedback on your work?
Why are you interested in working with this faculty advisor or research group?
What are your long-term career goals after completing your PhD?
Describe a time when you collaborated with others on a research project. What was your role?