Shanghai Jiao Tong University Interview Questions
& Process

I had an interview over VooV with three professors. Two of them are potential supervisors. They asked me about past classes and my research interests. It wasn't technical, just a general get-to-know-you chat.

Before the interview, you should prepare thoroughly. This includes your resume, your English level, and your research background. Your grades are a factor, but your academic research capabilities are more significant.

First, you'll need to send in your application for the program or department you're into. This usually means sending your transcripts, recommendation letters, a personal statement, and whatever else they ask for. How you apply can differ if you're going for undergrad, a master's, a PhD, or a teaching job. Then, the admissions committee or hiring team will look at your application. They'll check your background and qualifications to see if you fit the basic requirements. If you make the cut, they might call you for an interview. The interview style can be different depending on the program or job. It could be in person, on the phone, or online. If you're an international student and Chinese isn't your first language, they might test your Mandarin or English skills, depending on what language the program or job uses. After the interview, you'll hear back about the results. If you get in, you'll get an offer. If not, you'll get a rejection. If you're accepted, you'll need to finish the enrollment steps, like sending in papers and paying fees. For jobs, you'll negotiate the employment details.

I had a 20-minute meeting with 5 professors. They asked about my strengths and weaknesses and my reasons for applying. The main focus was on my research interests and previous research experience. They also inquired about the courses I've taken, what I learned from them, and specifically why I might have received a low score in a particular course. They also asked about a past failure and how I managed to overcome it.