Congratulations on finishing your Letz Live application! You’re now moving forward to the next stage: the interview. This step brings you closer to your gap year experience and gives us the chance to understand who you are, what motivates you, and why a gap year could be such a great fit. It’s an important milestone and a fantastic opportunity to share your story. To help you fully prepare, we’ve put together our best gap year interview tips so you can feel ready, confident, and excited!
1. Choose the right environment
Choose a quiet and private space where you’ll be able to focus without distractions. A clutter-free background and good lighting will also help keep the attention on you, not what’s going on around you. Treat it just like you would an exam: a calm, tidy, and professional space makes the best impression.
2. Do the interview on your own
This one’s really important. We want to speak directly with you, not Mum, Dad, or anyone else in the background. While your parents or guardians may be your biggest cheerleaders, they won’t be there with you on your gap year (and it’d be unusual if they were!). Part of this experience is showing independence, so running the interview solo helps us see how ready you are to take on this adventure.
3. Arrive early and be prepared for tech glitches
Don’t just aim to log in “on time.” Give yourself at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start to check your internet connection, camera, and microphone. This extra time means you won’t feel rushed if there are any unexpected technical hiccups. Sitting calmly in the waiting room also helps you settle any nerves before the conversation begins.
4. Dress to impress (at least a little!)
While you don’t need to wear formal business attire, you should treat the interview as a professional conversation. A neat, tidy, and appropriate outfit shows that you’re taking the opportunity seriously. Choose something comfortable but polished. If you’d wear it to meet a teacher or coach, it’s probably suitable.
5. Bring examples to back up your answers
When we ask about your motivations or experience, try not to give vague answers. Instead, use examples. For instance, if you say you’re independent, share a time when you demonstrated that, maybe through part-time work, volunteering, or handling responsibilities at school. Real stories make your responses memorable and authentic; this is one of the most practical gap year interview tips to keep in mind.
6. Think about your “why”
You’ll likely be asked things like:
- Why do you want to take a gap year?
- What are your future career or personal goals?
- Why do you think you’d be a great fit for this program?
Reflecting on these ahead of time will help you give thoughtful and confident answers. Remember: there’s no “right” response. We just want to understand what excites you and what you hope to gain from this experience.
7. Show us your curiosity
An interview is not just a one-way conversation. Prepare some questions of your own, as it shows initiative and genuine interest. You might ask about cultural activities in your host country, the type of support provided, or the day-to-day realities of living abroad. These questions demonstrate that you’re serious about making the most of your gap year.
8. Body language matters (even online!)
It’s easy to forget about body language on a video call, but it makes a big difference. Sit up straight, smile, and make “eye contact” through your camera. Avoid fidgeting or being distracted by your phone. These small details help you come across as professional, engaged, and enthusiastic.
9. Keep notes handy (but don’t read them)
Having some quick notes beside you is a smart idea, as they can help prompt you if you get stuck. But don’t read them word-for-word. The interview should still feel natural and conversational. Use notes as a safety net, not a script.
10. End on a positive note
At the conclusion of the interview, thank your interviewer for their time. Express your excitement about the possibility of joining the program. Leaving a positive final impression is just as important as your first one.
Ready to shine?
Your Letz Live interview is an exciting step in turning your gap year dream into reality. By following these gap year interview tips, you’ll not only present yourself at your best but also gain clarity about the exciting journey ahead.
We can’t wait to meet you and hear more about your aspirations. This is where your adventure truly begins.
