How to Prepare for Your MSc Speech and Language Therapy (Pre-registration) Application Interview

Applying for the MSc Speech and Language Therapy (Pre-registration) programme at Portobello Institute includes a short, online interview designed to understand your motivation for joining the profession and your readiness for the demands of the course.

This guide explains what to expect from the interview process, the types of questions you may be asked, how to prepare effectively and what happens after your interview so you can approach the experience with confidence.

How to Set Up Your Interview

The first step is to complete the online application, you will be prompted to create an account in our system and then create your application for either in-person weekdays or blended learning delivery.

Once you complete your online application, it will be reviewed by our team and you will be invited to an interview if you meet the programme entry requirements.

Interviews are held online via Microsoft Teams and are designed to explore your suitability for the MSc and your understanding of the Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) profession.

Our team will organise a time with you for your interview and you will receive an email with an invitation for the call on a specific day and time.

Interviews take place on a rolling but limited basis based on availability on the programme. Check the MSc Speech and Language (Pre-registration) course page for the next interview dates.

What the Interview is Really Like

The interview is supportive and conversational. The purpose is to get to know you, your motivations and your potential to thrive on a demanding professional programme.

You can expect a panel of two interviewers:

• One interviewer will ask approximately five structured questions
• The second interviewer will take notes

The focus is on learning about:

• Why you want to become a Speech and Language Therapist
• What qualities and values you would bring to the profession
• How your education, work or voluntary experience demonstrates those qualities
• Your understanding of the SLT role across adults and paediatrics
• How you plan to manage the academic and placement demands of an MSc programme

You will also have the opportunity to ask questions about the programme, placements, professional requirements and Portobello Institute.

How to Prepare for Your Interview

Your interview preparation doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should be thoughtful and reflective. The programme team recommends focusing on four key areas:

1. Research the SLT Profession

Ensure you understand the breadth of the SLT role across:

• Adult services
• Paediatrics
• Community settings
• Education
• Acute and specialist environments

Having a clear sense of the profession’s diversity will help you speak confidently about your future direction.

2. Reflect on Your Experience

Think about real examples that show your:

• Communication skills
• Empathy and interpersonal strengths
• Problem-solving abilities
• Experience supporting children, adults or vulnerable groups
• Alignment with SLT values and professional attributes

Prepare 2–3 specific examples you can talk about.

3. Consider Your Motivation and Fit

Be ready to discuss:

• Why SLT is the right career for you
• What draws you to a pre-registration master’s route
• How you plan to balance study, placements and personal commitments

4. Prepare Questions for the Panel

This is your chance to show genuine engagement. Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates motivation and professionalism.

What Happens After Your Interview

Following the interview:

• Notes from your discussion are compiled by the interview panel
• A decision is forwarded to the admissions team
• You will receive your outcome within 7–10 working days

If you receive an offer:

• You will need to formally accept it and pay the required deposit
• You will have 14 days to complete this step
• Your place is only fully confirmed once tuition fees have been received

Please note that due to demand for this programme, places cannot be held for applicants who do not complete the acceptance and fee process within the required timeframe.

Your Pathway to Becoming a Speech and Language Therapist

The MSc Speech and Language Therapy (Pre-registration) is a transformative, intensive programme designed to prepare graduates for professional practice as registered SLTs.

The interview process is simply the first step - a supportive opportunity to demonstrate your commitment, values and readiness for a rewarding and impactful career.

This MSc is awarded by Health Sciences University (HSU) and is accredited by HCPC offering you the opportunity to work in the UK and apply for CORU registration to work in Ireland through the ‘qualified abroad’ route, giving you access to a wide range of clinical career opportunities upon completion.

If you are considering applying, taking time to prepare will help you approach the interview with confidence and clarity.

Visit the course page here to progress with your application.