How would a Skype interview be like?

[bbym]

I received Skype interview requests from two of the U.S. schools that I applied (both pure math PhD programs), but I have no idea about how they are. It seems the interviews would not be too long, 15-30min each I believe. Has anyone done such kind of interviews before? How are they like? It would be more than helpful if you could share your own experience or thoughts of the interview. Thanks

[jrayers97]

I did an interview for a program. It really isn't anything to be worried about, from my experience they just asked me about my research, goals, classes, and my application.

[bbym]

I did an interview for a program. It really isn't anything to be worried about, from my experience they just asked me about my research, goals, classes, and my application.

Thanks a lot! It is really helpful

[optimisticnihilist]

If it's a technical interview, they will ask you about your research and possibly about your past coursework. I had a 15 minute interview where they only touched upon soft skills; they basically wanted to know why I applied to their program, why I wanted to do a PhD and what separates me from other applicants.

[hachiryu]

I had a skype interview and the breakdown was essentially:
40% small-talk
15% mathematics (my research)
15% interviewer asking questions about me to learn about my personality/social skills
30% me asking questions about their programme
It was very relaxed! I got the impression that they just wanted to know I was human.