Congratulations, if you’ve been invited for an interview at a University or Art College, you’re already halfway there. This guide is part of my architecture application series, covering portfolio preparation, interviews, clearing, and what universities are really looking for in applicants.

Feeling nervous is completely normal, but preparation is your secret weapon. As a former University Senior Lecturer and interviewer for hundreds of art and design applicants across the UK and internationally, I want to help you feel confident, ready, and proud of your work.

This Portfolio Preparation Guide walks you through exactly what to include, how to present it, and how to shine in your interview, so you can secure your spot in your dream course. This guide is part of my series on applying to architecture and design courses, including portfolio preparation, interviews, and alternative routes such as clearing.

Portfolio Preparation Guide, How to Get Ready for Your Art or Design University Interview

Why Your Portfolio Matters

Your portfolio is the heart of your application. It shows who you are as a creative, what inspires you, and how you think and make decisions through design.

It’s not just about how “good” your work is - it’s about showing:

Your creative process and experimentation
Your ability to develop ideas
Your enthusiasm for your subject
Your potential to grow

Whether you’re applying for Architecture, Interior Design, Fine Art, Fashion, or Graphic Design, your portfolio should reflect your strengths, skills, and interests. If you’re not sure what to avoid when putting your portfolio together, I’ve written a separate post on the most common architecture portfolio mistakes I see every year as a former lecturer.

Before the Interview: Do Your Research

Research Your Course and University
Read through the course description, visit their website, and note down facilities, teaching styles, and staff names. This will help you tailor your conversation and show genuine interest.
Attend Open Days and Taster Sessions
University open days are the best way to get a feel for the place. Walk around, meet students, and ask questions about the course, facilities, and student life.
Plan your journey and Interview Day
Arrive early and calm. If you’re travelling far, consider staying overnight. A rushed morning can add unnecessary stress.
What to Wear to a University Interview
Prepare your outfit, pack your sketchbook and portfolio, charge your phone, and get your travel details sorted so you can focus on being present. Looking polished helps boost confidence, but authenticity matters more. The goal is to feel comfortable and professional.

If you’re applying late or through alternative routes, here’s what you need to know about applying through clearing for architecture.

How to Build a Strong Architecture & Design Portfolio

Here are my five top tips to help you build a strong, memorable portfolio that stands out in your interview.

1. Show Your Best Work (Quality Over Quantity)

Select around 15-20 of your best pieces, though you’ll likely only show 10–15 during the interview. Show a variety of techniques, subjects, and media that demonstrate creativity, experimentation, and personal style.

Include:

Drawings and sketches (observational, still life, conceptual)
Sketchbook pages (showing development and process)
Paintings (watercolour, acrylic, mixed media)
Digital work (graphic layouts, renderings, photography)
3D work (models or sculptures - use well-lit photos to show scale)
Independent or personal projects showing your initiative and interests

Ask yourself:

What story does this portfolio tell about me as a designer or artist?
Which pieces best reflect my strengths and passion?
Am I proud to talk about every piece in here?

Before finalising your work, it’s worth reviewing the most common architecture portfolio mistakes I see every year.

2. Keep text short and meaningful

If you include written descriptions, keep them brief:

Title
Medium used
1-2 sentence explanation (the idea, theme, or story behind it)

Clear presentation matters too, including learning how to write like an architect in your drawings.

Admissions staff want to see visuals first. Let your work do the talking.

3. Tailor Your Portfolio to the Course

Tailor your portfolio to the course you’re applying for:

Architecture / Interior Architecture
Sketches of buildings, models, perspective drawings, material studies, and spatial concepts.

Fashion
Figure drawing, fabric samples, fashion illustrations, and finished garments.

Graphic Design
Branding, logos, typography, posters, and photography.

Fine Art
Paintings, mixed media, sculpture, installations, and experimental work.

Show your passion for the subject, not just technical skill. The interviewer wants to see where your interests lie.

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4. Choose the right Portfolio Format (Physical or Digital)

Depending on your interview, your portfolio might be:

Physical: A3 size is ideal - easy to carry and present.
Digital: Combine your work into a clean, easy-to-navigate PDF (10–20 pages), or use platforms like Behance or Squarespace for an online version.

If submitting digitally, name files clearly and check any upload instructions. Tools like WeTransfer are great for large files.

5. Practise presenting your portfolio

In your interview, you’ll be asked to talk through your work. Practise explaining:

What each piece is and why you created it
What inspired or influenced it
What medium did you use, and why
Whether it was a school project or independent work

Speak clearly, slowly, and confidently. Show your enthusiasm, it’s contagious.

During the Interview: What Universities Look For

5-10 minutes early shows professionalism and organisation. Interviewers want to see your personality. They’re not expecting perfection - they’re looking for curiosity and potential.

Common University Interview Questions

Why did you choose this course and university?
What designers or artists inspire you?
What project are you most proud of and why?
What materials or techniques do you enjoy working with?
Have a few answers prepared, but keep them natural and conversational.

Questions You Should Ask Interviewers

Prepare 2–3 thoughtful questions about the course, facilities, or teaching approach. It shows you’ve done your research and are serious about your choice.

Chat with other applicants - they might become your future classmates. Take a tour of the studios and facilities, if possible, and note how you feel on campus.

After the Interview: What to Do Next

Reflect and Review

Take time to reflect once it’s over. How did it feel? Did you connect with the staff or environment? Trust your gut, you’ll often sense whether it’s the right place for you. Make notes while it’s fresh, and compare your experiences before accepting an offer.