ASEAN Selection Interview

I think they cut down the most people after the selection tests, and at least 20% of interview applicants get the actual scholarship (based on my own data from my yr so might be diff every yr), so congrats yall! The interview is a friendly conversation, so no need to panic or worry.

Before the Interview

I waited outside until 15 minutes before my scheduled interview, then was lead into a silent waiting room with a person checking my ic and documents. Then I just sat and waited until they called my name and check my documents again, then waited for another 5 minutes before the staff lead me to a room with a laptop and headphones. When you are waiting in the waiting room, chances are you won't get a chance to review your interview notes or anything so procrastinating your last min revision outside or on the car is NOT the best idea. Also, for me, there was a guy who was speaking damn loud so don't be surprised if that happens to you too (ill explain why later)

Interview Process

Because of covid, my interview was an online zoom meeting on a laptop with noise-canceling headphones in an enclosed room at British Council, KL. Mind you, the headphones were REALLY noise-cancelling and I could barely hear myself talk. So if your interview is also at the same venue, just keep that in mind. 

They mostly ask normal interview questions, and some questions relating to what you submitted beforehand and your English essay. Here are the questions they asked me:

1. Tell me about yourself.

2. Describe your family.

3. Why do you want to study in Singapore?

4. I see in your profile that you are the vice-captain, what is it and what do you do? (example q related to submitted documents)

5. What would you do if your teacher wants to do something that you know will not be welcomed by the students?

6. Describe your biggest failure?

7. At your school you study creative arts like music, so what do you think about unprivileged kids having limited access to creative arts education? (I briefly mentioned unprivileged children in my essay, but the arts aspect was so outta the blue)

8. What do you know about studying in Singapore?

9. Is there anything you will miss when you come to Singapore?

10. Do you have a/any question(s) for us?

11. They might ask some small causal questions at the end like: are you ready to come to sg, do you want to come to sg, if i told u to come to sg tmr will you do it?

In general, I would say keep the tone positive and remain eye contact at all times. DO NOT wander off if anyone walks by or if there is any sound. STAY FOCUSED. If they ask any questions like q11, remember to express your sincerity and excitement (same goes for the entire interview). They might ask some questions related to the certs you submitted or your essay, so do be aware of what you submitted and wrote, and brainstorm any related questions.