How To Ace Your DSA Interview
Direct School Admission (DSA) for secondary schools allows primary 6 students to apply to some schools before taking their Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE). Students can apply based on their talent in non-academic areas such as sports, CCAs or specific academic strengths. Securing a place in your dream secondary school can be tough, but with the right preparation it can be a lot easier. In this article, we will give you some tips on how to ace your DSA interview and secure that coveted spot.
Different schools have different selection processes. If shortlisted, the student will have to attend interviews and auditions conducted by DSA schools. Since the students are just 12 years-old, it is normal for them to feel nervous about this first formal interview in their entire life. This is why support from their parents is extremely crucial – both emotional support and help to prepare the students for this selection process.
For all interviews, it is always important to be well-prepared and confident. Here are some tips to help you and your child prepare:
1
Do your research on the school. Make sure you know the school's curriculum and what their focus is. This will show the interview panel that you are interested in the school and have done your research. Only then can you give very specific answers to questions the interviewers ask regarding their school, such as "Why do you want to apply to our school?" In this case, if you answer "I am very interested in this school as it has a very strong Robotics & Coding CCA team which I hope to join. I am confident that I will be able to contribute and excel in this activity under the guidance of the great teachers here.", it will definitely help to score extra points with the panel.
2
Prepare a portfolio of your work. If you are applying based on your talent in a non-academic area, be sure to bring along a portfolio of your work to show the interview panel. This will help demonstrate your skills and talent, as well as your organisation skills. Make sure to include all your significant achievements!
3
Practice interview questions. It is important to be prepared for common interview questions. Practice answering questions out loud so that you are confident and comfortable when the time comes. Some common questions are :
- "Tell us about yourself."
- "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
- "Why do you want to apply to our school?"
- "What are your hobbies and interests?"
- "Tell us about yourself."
- "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
- "Why do you want to apply to our school?"
- "What are your hobbies and interests?"
4
Dress to impress. First impressions are important, so make sure you dress neatly and professionally for your interview. Since students must wear the school uniforms, do remember to iron your uniform to look neat and tidy if needed.
5
Be confident and be yourself. The interview panel wants to get to know YOU, so it is important that you relax and be yourself not looking for perfection, so do not worry if you make a mistake or two. Just stay calm and confident during the interview and let your personality shine through! During the interview, be confident in yourself and your abilities. Smile and make eye contact with the interview panel. Show them that you are excited about attending their school.
Next, making a great impression on the interview panel is important if you want to secure a place in your dream secondary school. Here are some tips to help you:
1
Be polite and respectful. Address the interview panel members by name and be courteous. Thank them for their time after the interview.
2
Be energetic and enthusiastic. Show the interview panel that you are excited about attending their school. Speak positively about the school and its curriculum.
3
Be honest and sincere. Don't try to fake it until you make it. The interview panel will be able to tell if you are being disingenuous, and this will not reflect well on you. Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses, and be open to feedback. For example, if they ask whether you have also applied to other schools, do not say "No" just to make the school feel special. They will appreciate your honesty more.
4
Be prepared and confident. Show the interview panel that you have done your research and are confident in your abilities. This will demonstrate that you are serious about attending their school.
By following these tips, you will be well on your way to acing your DSA interview and securing a place in your dream secondary school. Good luck!
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