UG PI Preparation Strategy: Complete Tips for Undergraduate Admissions

The UG personal interview is now a key part of admission to top colleges in India. This guide provides a clear and practical roadmap to excel in PI. It explains how the process works, what colleges look for, the types of topics and questions you can expect, and provides step-by-step guidance on how to prepare for a Personal Interview. By the end, you will know exactly how to present your ideas, your personality, and your potential with confidence.

 

Understanding UG PI Round

What is PI?

A face-to-face conversation between you and a small panel of 2–3 professors, alumni or admission committee members, usually lasting 10–30 minutes. It helps them understand you better, including your personality, knowledge, and why you want to join the program.

Institutions Using PI for UG Admissions

College / University	PI Conducted
IIM Indore	Yes
IIM Rohtak	Yes
SCMS (Symbiosis)	Yes
Symbiosis School of Economics (SSE)	Yes
Jai Hind College, Mumbai	Yes
St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai	Yes
St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata	Yes
IIM Kozhikode	Yes
IIM Bangalore	Yes
IIM Sambalpur	Yes
IIM Amritsar	Yes
IIM Sirmaur	Yes
Christ University	Yes
Ashoka University	Yes
FLAME University	Yes

UG Selection Process & Weightage

Understanding how PI fits into the overall selection process helps you appreciate its importance and allocate preparation time accordingly.

Selection Process

Entrance Test

• Entrance exam specific to the institution or program
• Minimum cutoff criteria for eligibility

Personal Interview

• Final stage before admission offers
• Comprehensive evaluation of personality, motivation, and fit
• Most critical component affecting final selection

Typical Weightage Distribution

Component	Weightage Range
Entrance Test/Academic Record	60-75%
Personal Interview	25-40%
Total	100%

Key Insight: Even if you score very well in the entrance exam, a weak PI performance can still cost you admission. On the other hand, a strong PI performance can make up for only average test scores. Since your final selection depends on a combined score of the test and PI, preparing well for PI is extremely important.

 

Alternative Formats

Some institutions use variations:

• Micro Presentation (MP): 1-2 minute presentation on a given topic (used by Christ University)
• Skill Assessment (SA): Reflective speaking on personal growth topics
• Written Ability Test (WAT): Essay writing replacing or supplementing GD
• Extempore: Impromptu speaking on assigned topics

 

UG Personal Interview (PI) Deep Dive

The Personal Interview is your chance to show who you are as a person—your interests, motivation, and readiness for the course. Unlike the GD, where you are judged in a group, the PI focuses only on you.

What is Evaluated in PI?

Academic Foundation

• How well you understand the subjects you studied in Class 12
• How consistent your academic performance has been
• How clearly can you explain basic concepts
• How curious and interested you are in your chosen field

Motivation & Fit

• Clear reasons for choosing this particular program
• How well you understand what the program includes
• Practical and realistic career goals
• How well your values and goals match the institution’s values

Personality 

• Being genuine and honest in your answers
• Knowing your own strengths and weaknesses
• Showing maturity and emotional balance
• Showing honesty and strong values when asked tricky or ethical questions

Communication Skills

• Expressing your thoughts clearly and to the point
• Using appropriate body language and maintaining eye contact
• Listening carefully and responding thoughtfully
• Showing confidence without sounding rude or arrogant

General Awareness

• Awareness of current events and social issues
• Knowledge of what is happening in your chosen field
• Awareness of important national and international events
• Ability to think about issues and share informed opinions

Extracurricular Profile

• Involvement in sports, arts, or other activities outside academics
• Any leadership positions or responsibilities you’ve taken
• Hobbies and interests beyond studies
• Personal initiatives you have taken and the impact they created

UG PI Structure & Flow

Ice-Breaking & Introduction

• The panel greets you and helps you feel at ease.
• They usually start with “Tell us about yourself” or a similar question.
• This opening sets the mood for the rest of the interview.

Academic Exploration

• Questions about your favourite subjects and key concepts.
• They check how deeply you understand important topics.
• They may ask why you chose certain subjects and how you have performed.
• You may get subject-based questions or small problems to solve.

Program & Motivation Questions

• Why do you want to join this institution and this program?
• How well do you know the course structure and opportunities?
• What are your career goals, and how does this program help you reach them?
• What are your backup plans if you don’t get selected?

Personal & Extracurricular Discussion

• Questions about your hobbies, interests, and passions.
• Discussion on leadership roles and teamwork experiences.
• Times when you faced challenges and what you learned from them.
• They may ask about your family background and values.

Current Affairs & General Awareness

• Discussion on recent events or trends that interest you.
• Your views on social, economic, or political issues.
• Questions linked to areas you mentioned as interests.

Situational & Ethical Questions

• “What would you do if…” type scenarios.
• They assess your honesty, values, and decision-making skills.
• Helps them understand your personal value system.

Your Questions to Panel

• You get a chance to ask thoughtful questions.
• This shows genuine interest and that you’ve done your homework.
• Avoid asking things that are clearly available on the website.

Closing

• You can add any final point you feel is important.
• The panel thanks you for your time.
• You say a polite goodbye and exit confidently.

 

Types of UG PI Questions

Personal Background Questions

• Tell us about yourself.
• Describe your family background.
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• What makes you different from others?
• Talk about an important achievement in your life.
• How do you usually spend your free time?
• Who has influenced you the most and why?

Academic Questions For students from a Science background:

• Explain some basic concepts from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Biology.
• Solve a question from your Class 12 syllabus.
• Why did you choose the Science stream?
• Which subject do you like the most and why?

For students from a Commerce background:

• Explain simple accounting principles.
• Talk about basic economic ideas like demand, supply, inflation, and GDP.
• Why did you choose Commerce and not Science or Arts?
• What part of business interests you the most?

For students from a Humanities background:

• Discuss some historical events or literary works you’ve studied.
• Share your views on social or political issues.
• Why did you choose Arts/Humanities?
• How do you think the humanities help society?

Program-Specific Questions

• Why do you want to study [Economics/Management/Liberal Arts/Data Science]?
• Why do you want to join this particular institution?
• What do you know about this program’s curriculum?
• How does this program fit with your career plans?
• What will you contribute to this program?
• What are your expectations from this course?
• How do you plan to use this degree in the future?

Current Affairs Questions

• Recent government policies or key points from the latest budget.
• Important international events or changes.
• Social movements or changes in society.
• New developments in technology.
• Major economic trends.
• Environmental issues and climate-related news.
• Important sports or cultural events.

Situational & Ethical Questions

• You see a friend cheating in an exam. What would you do?
• How would you deal with a conflict with a teammate?
• Describe a time when you had to make a tough decision.
• What would you choose: your own success or your team’s success?
• How do you deal with failure or criticism?
• What would you do if you disagreed with a teacher?

Extracurricular & Leadership Questions

• Tell us about your leadership experiences.
• How do you manage both studies and extracurricular activities?
• Which hobbies or interests do you take seriously?
• Describe a challenge you faced in an extracurricular activity.
• How have sports, arts, or other activities shaped your personality?
• Which social causes matter to you and why?

 

UG PI Strategies for Success

Before the Interview:

• Go through your application carefully and remember everything you’ve written.
• Prepare your personal story, who you are, what you’ve done, and what you want to do.
• Practice common interview questions so your answers sound natural, not memorized.
• Stay updated with current affairs, especially those related to your chosen field.
• Revise your Class 12 subjects, focusing on those linked to your program.
• Research the college, the program, the faculty, and campus culture in detail.
• Prepare 3–4 thoughtful questions to ask the panel.
• Decide on your formal outfit in advance and keep all required documents ready.

During the Interview:

• Walk in confidently and greet the panel politely.
• Sit down only after you are invited to do so.
• Sit straight and maintain good posture throughout.
• Listen carefully to each question before you answer.
• If needed, take 2–3 seconds to think before speaking.
• Answer honestly, it’s better to say “I don’t know” than to guess or bluff.
• Keep your answers clear and to the point; avoid going off on long tangents.
• Make eye contact with all panel members while speaking.
• Show genuine interest and excitement for the program.
• Be yourself; panels appreciate honesty more than rehearsed perfection.
• Thank the panel sincerely before leaving.

Common PI Mistakes to Avoid:

• Lying or exaggerating about your achievements.
• Memorizing answers and speaking in a flat, robotic way.
• Giving vague, generic answers with no specifics.
• Criticizing your previous school, teachers, or institutions.
• Acting arrogant or overconfident.
• Interrupting the panel while they are speaking.
• Speaking badly about other candidates.
• Showing closed or negative body language.
• Coming without doing basic research about the program.
• Being unable to explain things you yourself wrote in your application.

Comprehensive UG Personal Interview Preparation Strategies

Success in PI rounds requires steady, planned preparation over several weeks. Try to start at least 4–6 weeks before your expected PI dates.

Build a Strong Current Affairs Base

Daily Habits:

• Read at least one national newspaper every day (The Hindu, Indian Express, Times of India).
• Use news apps like Inshorts, BBC News, or Google News for quick updates.
• Watch news discussions or debates to hear different viewpoints.
• Follow reliable news pages on social media for real-time updates.

Weekly Habits:

• Read weekly news magazines or their online versions.
• Watch documentaries on social, economic, or political issues.
• Discuss current events with family or friends.
• Make short notes on important events, dates, and why they matter.

What to Focus On:

• Government policies and schemes
• Economic changes and key budget points
• International relations and global politics
• Major science and technology developments
• Social movements and changes in society
• Sports and cultural events
• Environmental issues and climate action
• Updates in education and healthcare

Strengthen Your Academic Foundation

Subject Revision:

• Revise your Class 12 subjects properly, especially those linked to your chosen program.
• Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorizing answers.
• Practice explaining concepts in simple language.
• Be ready to solve questions or handle application-based problems.

Research Your Institution Properly

What to Know:

• Program curriculum, structure, and specializations
• Faculty areas of expertise and research
• Campus facilities, clubs, and student activities
• The institution’s mission, vision, and values
• Notable alumni and their achievements
• Placement records and career opportunities
• What makes this program different from others
• Recent news or updates about the institution

Where to Look:

• Official website (explore all important sections)
• Official social media pages and student-run groups
• YouTube videos of campus tours, events, and fests
• LinkedIn profiles of current students and alumni
• Reviews and threads on education forums
• News articles about the institution

Practice Communication Skills

For Group Discussions:

• Join mock GDs with friends, seniors, or coaching institutes.
• Practice speaking for 2–3 minutes on different topics.
• Work on reducing filler words like “um,” “uh,” and “like.”
• Record yourself and review your speaking style and body language.
• Practice building on others’ points in a positive way.
• Learn to enter the discussion at the right time.
• Practice summarizing a discussion clearly.

For Personal Interviews:

• Do mock interviews with teachers, mentors, or seniors.
• Practice answering common questions in your own words.
• Record these sessions and review them honestly.
• Work on posture, eye contact, and natural body language.
• Practice a clear 1.5–2 minute “Tell me about yourself” answer.
• Take feedback from different people and act on it.
• Practice thinking aloud when answering conceptual or problem-based questions.

Develop Your Personal Story

Create Your Story:

• Note down key experiences that have shaped who you are.
• Connect your past experiences with your future goals.
• Clearly explain why this program suits your journey.
• Prepare specific examples for achievements, challenges, and learnings.
• Create a strong 2-minute introduction about yourself.

Use the STAR Method for Examples:

• Situation: Briefly describe the background.
• Task: Explain what needs to be done.
• Action: Describe what you did.
• Result: Share the outcome and what you learned.

Example: “During Class 11, I noticed that fewer students were joining our school’s debate club (Situation). As an active member, I wanted to bring back interest (Task). I organized inter-class debates, personally invited junior students, and arranged small prizes through sponsorships (Action). Membership went up by 60%, and we won the district championship. This taught me the value of consistent effort and involving people directly (Result).”

Prepare Strong Examples in Advance

Keep ready a set of examples for:

• 3–4 Leadership Examples: Times you led a project, team, or event.
• 2–3 Academic Achievements: Not just marks, but projects, competitions, and research.
• 2–3 Challenges Faced: Difficult situations and how you handled them.
• 2–3 Ethical Dilemmas: When you had to make a tough moral choice.
• 2–3 Teamwork Experiences: Times you worked with others and your role.
• 2–3 Failure Stories: What went wrong and what you learned from it.

Work on Body Language & Presentation

Body Language Tips:

• Sit straight without slouching.
• Use simple, natural hand gestures while speaking.
• Maintain steady, comfortable eye contact (without staring).
• Smile naturally, especially at the beginning.
• Avoid habits like tapping a pen, shaking your leg, or playing with your hair.
• Walk in and out of the room with confidence.

Presentation Tips:

• Speak at a normal pace, not too fast or too slow.
• Vary your tone slightly to avoid sounding flat.
• Use short pauses to stress important points.
• Pronounce your words clearly.
• Dress neatly in formal, professional attire, as first impressions matter.
• Maintain a positive and steady throughout.

Learn from Others’ Experiences

Gather Insights:

• Read past PI experiences on blogs, forums, and college websites.
• Join admission-related groups on Facebook, Telegram, or WhatsApp.
• Connect with current students or recent admits on LinkedIn.
• Watch PI guidance videos on YouTube.
• Attend webinars or workshops on preparing for PI.
• Learn from both success stories and failures.
• Notice common question patterns for your target program.

Mental Preparation & Stress Management

Building Confidence:

• Imagine yourself doing well in PI.
• Prepare well so you feel less worried about unexpected questions.
• Remind yourself that the panel is not trying to fail you.
• Accept that feeling nervous is normal.
• Focus on doing your best, not on being perfect.

Stress Management:

• Sleep well in the days before PI.
• Practice deep breathing or simple meditation.
• Avoid last-minute cramming that increases stress.
• Exercise regularly to stay physically and mentally fit.
• Discuss your concerns with trusted individuals.
• Remind yourself that PI is an opportunity to grow, not a threat.

 

Do’s and Don’ts for UG PI Round

DO’s ✓

Before PI:

• Reach the venue at least 1–2 hours early to avoid issues due to traffic or delays.
• Carry all required documents neatly arranged in a folder.
• Wear formal clothes suitable for a professional setting.
• Sleep well the night before to avoid last-minute cramming.
• Go through your application and main talking points one last time.
• Eat a proper breakfast or meal, so you have enough energy.
• Switch off or silence your phone before you go in.

During Personal Interview:

• Greet the panel confidently and politely.
• Sit only after you are invited to sit.
• Make eye contact with all panel members when you speak.
• Listen fully to each question before answering.
• Take a moment to think if you need to organize your thoughts.
• Be honest, if you don’t know something, admit it.
• Show real interest and excitement about the program and college.
• Ask sensible, thoughtful questions when you get the chance.
• Link your answers to your own experiences where possible.
• Thank the panel genuinely at the end.

In Responses:

• Be honest and genuine in everything you say.
• Share specific examples and details to back up your points.
• Keep your answers clear and focused—don’t wander off-topic.
• Show that you are curious and eager to learn.
• Show that you know your strengths and are aware of your weaknesses.
• Use simple, clear language that everyone can understand.
• Show respect for different opinions and viewpoints.

DON’Ts ✗

Before PI:

• Don’t stay up late overthinking or cramming.
• Don’t wear casual, flashy, or inappropriate clothes.
• Don’t forget important documents, such as your admission card.
• Don’t reach the venue late or at the last minute.
• Don’t eat very heavy food that can make you sleepy.
• Don’t keep talking about your anxiety with other nervous candidates.

During Personal Interview:

• Don’t interrupt the panel while they’re talking.
• Don’t argue, get defensive, or show attitude.
• Don’t behave in an arrogant or overconfident way.
• Don’t speak badly about your previous school, teachers, or classmates.
• Don’t look at your phone or check the time again and again.
• Don’t panic or show extreme nervousness.
• Don’t give one-word answers; explain briefly and clearly.
• Don’t keep talking off-topic just to avoid saying “I don’t know.”
• Don’t guess or fake knowledge if you don’t know the answer.
• Don’t criticize the college or compare it negatively with others.

In Responses:

• Don’t lie, exaggerate, or make up information.
• Don’t memorize answers and repeat them like a robot.
• Don’t say “I don’t know” instantly; you must first try to reason it out a bit.
• Don’t always blame others for your failures or problems.
• Don’t give very general answers without real examples.
• Don’t use heavy jargon just to sound impressive.
• Don’t show that you know nothing about the program or college.
• Don’t make strong, controversial statements without careful reasoning.
• Don’t be completely rigid; show that you are open and flexible in your thinking.

Program-Specific UG PI Preparation Tips

Different undergraduate programs evaluate different aspects. Tailor your preparation accordingly.

For Management/Business Programs (BBA, B.Com with specialization)

Focus Areas:

• Recent business news and major company updates
• Basic ideas of management and how businesses work
• Real-life examples where you showed leadership
• Any business ideas or entrepreneurial attempts you’ve tried
• Fair and responsible business practices, including social responsibility

Likely Topics/Questions:

• Recent business events like mergers, acquisitions, or new startups
• Simple questions on marketing, finance, HR, and operations
• Small case studies or business problems to solve
• “Why management?” and what you want to do in your career
• Talking about business leaders you admire and why

Preparation Tips:

• Read business papers like the Economic Times or Business Standard.
• Keep track of major company news and the startup scene.
• Learn and revise basic business terms.
• Think about how companies create value for customers, employees, and society.
• Prepare clear examples of your leadership and teamwork experiences.

For Economics Programs

Focus Areas:

• Class 12 Economics concepts like demand, supply, inflation, and GDP
• Current economic policies and key points from the budget
• Basic ideas of micro and macroeconomics
• Economic challenges in India and around the world
• How economic theories apply to real-life situations

Likely Topics/Questions:

• Recent government policies and how they affect the economy
• Explanation of core concepts such as demand, supply, inflation, and GDP
• Discussion on issues like unemployment, poverty, and inequality
• Simple questions on fiscal policy and monetary policy
• Your career plans in the field of economics

Preparation Tips:

• Revise your Class 12 Economics thoroughly.
• Follow economic news and major policy announcements.
• Understand the main highlights of the latest budget and what they mean.
• Read about well-known economists and their ideas.
• Think about current economic problems and possible solutions.

For Data Science/Computer Science Programs

Focus Areas:

• Basic understanding of programming and the languages you know
• Current technology trends like AI, machine learning, blockchain, and cloud computing (at a simple level)
• How data science is used in different industries
• Fair use of technology and concerns about data privacy
• Problem-solving ability and logical thinking

Likely Topics/Questions:

• Simple explanation of the technical ideas you have studied
• Recent developments in technology and what they mean for people
• How data science can help solve real-life problems
• Ethical questions around AI, automation, and privacy
• Projects you have done or any coding experience you have

Preparation Tips:

• Revise the programming concepts you’ve already learned.
• Keep up with major technology news and trends.
• Understand a few real-world uses of AI and data science.
• Think about the advantages and risks of new technology.
• Practice explaining technical ideas in a way that even non-technical people can understand.

For Liberal Arts/Humanities Programs

Focus Areas:

• Ability to think clearly and analyse ideas
• Understanding of social, political, and cultural issues
• Sharing balanced, well-thought-out opinions
• Basic awareness of history and key philosophical ideas
• Strong skills in speaking and expressing yourself

Likely Topics/Questions:

• Discussion on social issues and current challenges
• Your views on literature, history, or philosophical ideas
• Importance of the humanities in today’s world
• Recent political or cultural events
• Your specific interests within humanities subjects

Preparation Tips:

• Read widely; books and articles from literature, history, sociology, and philosophy.
• Practice analysing texts, events, and issues instead of just describing them.
• Stay updated on social and political news.
• Practice explaining complex ideas in simple, clear language.
• Connect theories and concepts to what is happening in the world today.

For Science Programs (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics)

Focus Areas:

• Key concepts from your Class 12 science subjects
• Recent scientific discoveries and how they are used in daily life or industry
• Basic understanding of how scientific research works
• How theoretical concepts are applied in real situations
• Ethical issues linked to scientific research

Likely Topics/Questions:

• Concept-based questions from your Class 12 syllabus
• Questions where you have to apply concepts to solve a problem
• Recent developments in the area of science you’re interested in
• Why you chose science, and what are your career goals are
• Simple questions about how research is planned and carried out

Preparation Tips:

• Revise your Class 12 science topics thoroughly.
• Focus on understanding ideas, not just memorizing formulas.
• Read about recent scientific breakthroughs from reliable sources.
• Practice explaining tough scientific ideas in simple language.
• Think about how science is used to solve real-world problems.

For Design Programs

Focus Areas:

• Creative thinking and a good sense of art and design
• Basic understanding of design principles and what looks visually appealing
• Awareness of current design styles and well-known designers
• Ability to discuss your portfolio and explain your work clearly
• Thinking visually and clearly sharing your design ideas

Likely Topics/Questions:

• Discussion of your portfolio pieces, like what inspired them, how you created them, and the final result
• Basic ideas of design principles like colour, fonts, and layout
• Designers or design movements you admire and why
• Current design trends in areas like fashion, graphics, products, etc.
• How can design solve problems or improve people’s lives?

Preparation Tips:

• Prepare clear explanations for each piece in your portfolio.
• Revise basic design principles and common design terms.
• Follow design blogs, magazines, and well-known designers.
• Think about how your designs solve a problem or add value.
• Be ready to sketch or talk through your design process step by step.

After UG PI: What Next?

Once your PI is over, thank the panel politely and leave the room with the same confidence you had when you entered. After that, you can keep these points in mind:

Immediate Aftermath:

• Don’t keep replaying every answer in your head or judging yourself too harshly.
• Avoid lengthy “post-mortem” discussions with other candidates about who did better.
• Don’t try to read the panel’s faces; their expressions usually don’t reveal anything.
• Many students who feel they didn’t do well still get selected, and sometimes the opposite also happens.
• Trust that you did your best with the preparation and information you had.

Moving Forward:

• If there are more steps in the admission process, focus on those next.
• Keep preparing for other colleges or backup options at the same time.
• Don’t depend emotionally on just one institution.
• Take some time to relax and unwind after weeks of preparation.
• Results usually come within 1–4 weeks, depending on the college.

Learning from Experience:

• Think calmly about what went well and what you can improve next time.
• Write down any unexpected questions so you can prepare better in future.
• Notice areas where you felt less confident and work on them.
• Use this experience to perform better in other PI rounds, if you have them.
• Remember that, no matter the result, this preparation will help you in future interviews and opportunities as well.

Sample Success Story Framework

When discussing experiences, use structured approaches:

STAR Method Example

Question: “Tell us about a leadership experience.”

Situation (S):
“In Class 11, our school’s annual cultural fest was facing low participation, and the overall quality of the event had gone down compared to previous years.”

Task (T):
“As the newly elected head of the cultural committee, my responsibility was to bring back student interest and improve the overall standard of the fest.”

Action (A):
“I started by trying to understand the real problem instead of jumping to solutions. I conducted a small survey and informal conversations with students to find out why they weren’t participating. We realized that the fest dates were clashing with exam preparation, and many students felt the events were repetitive and didn’t match their interests.

After this, 

• I spoke with the teachers and administration to reschedule the dates for a less stressful time.
• Added new events, such as digital art, spoken word poetry, and short film-making, to attract more students.
• Created a simple social media campaign and posters to build excitement.
• Personally reached out to students who were talented but usually hesitant to participate.
• Approached a few local businesses and school alumni to sponsor prizes and improve the stage setup and sound.”

Result (R):
“As a result, participation went up by about 75%. Around 450 students took part, compared to 250 the previous year. Teachers and students said it was the best fest in many years, and the feedback we received was extremely positive.

This experience taught me that good leadership starts with listening to people, understanding their needs, and then taking consistent action. It also showed me how important it is to follow through on plans and keep the team motivated until the end.”

 

PAR Method Example

For discussing achievements or projects (PAR Method):

Problem (P):
“In our neighbourhood, the number of stray dogs was increasing, and people were worried about safety.”

Action (A):
“I read up on how animal welfare groups handle such situations and got in touch with a local NGO. Together, we organised a vaccination and sterilisation camp for the dogs. I also spoke to residents, put up simple posters, and created awareness about feeding strays responsibly instead of chasing them away.”

Result (R):
“As a result, we helped more than 60 stray dogs, and bite or scare incidents in the area dropped by around 40%. We also formed a small volunteer group in the community, which is still working with the NGO to continue vaccinations, sterilisation, and regular feeding in a more organised way.”

 

Questions You Should Ask the Panel

Asking good questions shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the college.

Good Questions to Ask

Academics & Learning

• What is special or different about this program’s approach to [subject]?
• What kind of projects or research can undergraduate students be part of?
• How do you balance theory with practical work in this course?
• Are there options to study subjects from other streams as well?
• What kind of academic help is available if a student is struggling?

Faculty & Mentorship

• How does the mentorship system work here between teachers and students?
• Are there faculty research areas where undergraduates can assist?
• How approachable are teachers outside class?

Career & Growth

• What are common career paths for students from this program?
• How does the college support internships and placements?
• How active is the alumni network, and how do they help current students?
• Is there support for students who want to start their own ventures?

Campus Life & Culture

• How would you describe the campus culture here?
• Which clubs and student groups are most active?
• How does the college support overall growth beyond academics?
• What options are there for students interested in [your specific interest]?

What NOT to Ask: Avoid questions that:

• Are clearly answered on the website (fees, course duration, basic eligibility)
• Ask about your chances of selection (“Will I get in?”)
• Are too personal about the panel members
• Show that you have not read about the college at all

UG PI Tips-Final Thoughts: 

Success in a Personal interview is not about being perfect. It’s about being prepared, genuine, and fully present in the moment.

Remember:

• The panel is looking at your potential, not perfection.
• Being honest and real is always better than giving rehearsed, showy answers.
• Feeling nervous is completely normal.
• Your own experiences and way of thinking are your biggest strengths.
• Think of the interview as a two-way conversation, not an interrogation.

Go in with:

• Confidence that comes from solid preparation.
• The honesty to say “I don’t know” when needed.
• Curiosity to listen, learn, and ask questions.
• Respect for opinions that are different from yours.
• Genuine excitement about the opportunity in front of you.

Trust that:

• Your hard work has prepared you well.
• Being yourself is the best thing you can do in any interview.
• The right college will recognize your potential.
• One PI does not decide your entire future or your worth.
• There are many different paths that can lead you to success.

The PI round is both a test and an opportunity. It allows you to show not just what you know, but who you are and who you want to become. Prepare seriously, stay true to yourself, and walk in with a positive mindset.

Your undergraduate journey doesn’t start only when you get an admission letter. It begins in moments like these, when you step out of your comfort zone, talk about your dreams, and show what you are capable of.

All the best for your personal interview. When good preparation meets honesty and confidence, good results usually follow.