Top Questions to Ask in Your School Interview (That Make a Lasting Impression)Why the questions you ask matter just as much as the ones you answer.

When you think about preparing for CRNA interviews, you probably focus on answering questions confidently and clearly. But here’s what many applicants overlook: the questions you ask the admissions panel can be just as revealing—and just as important.

Asking thoughtful, intentional questions not only helps you decide if the program is the right fit for you, it also shows the interviewers that you’re serious, prepared, and thinking like a future CRNA.

Why This Matters

Most interviews end with some version of:

“Do you have any questions for us?”

This is not just a polite formality. It's an opportunity to:

• Show curiosity and critical thinking

• Demonstrate that you've researched their program

• Signal emotional maturity and professionalism

• Leave a lasting, positive impression

In short: strong questions reinforce that you’re a good applicant.

What Makes a Good Question?

Good questions:

• Are specific to their program

• Focus on values, training, support, or structure

• Can’t be answered by reading the website

• Reflect your personal priorities and learning style

Avoid overly general questions (like “How many students do you accept?” if that’s listed online) or ones that sound transactional (like “How many job offers do students get?”).

High-Impact Questions to Consider Asking

1. About Clinical Experience & Support

• “How are students supported during their first few months of clinical, especially during the transition from ICU to OR?”

• “Can you share how preceptors are selected or trained for your program?”

Your clinical hours are going to probably be the most influential part of your education so knowing more about this process can tell you a lot about the program.

2. About Program Culture & Cohort Dynamics

• “How would you describe the culture of your program and cohort?”

• “What qualities do successful students in your program tend to share?”

These signal emotional intelligence and cultural awareness which are both key to succeeding in high-stress environments. You will get an idea of the culture just by sitting in the interview and interacting with faculty, but understanding more about how they define their culture can help you decide if this program may be a good fit.

3. About Curriculum and Clinical Integration

• “How is the didactic curriculum integrated with hands-on learning?”

• “Are there any unique clinical sites or learning opportunities students often highlight?”

This shows you're actively thinking about how you learn best and how their program can support that.

4. About Resilience & Support Systems

• “What resources are available for students who may struggle academically or emotionally during the program?”

• “How does the program support work-life balance or mental health?”

This positions you as realistic, self-aware, and committed to thriving—not just surviving.

5. About Program Direction and Leadership

• “How do you see the program changing in the next 5 years?”

• “Are there any recent changes in curriculum, leadership, or philosophy that reflect a shift in focus?”

This shows strategic thinking and interest in the long-term vision of the program. It can also give you the ability to see if any major changes (good or bad) could be occurring while you are in the program.

What to Avoid Asking

• Anything you could have Googled or found on the university website - you should have done this before you wrote your personal statement!

• Questions about salary, job placement, or rankings

• “How flexible is your attendance policy?”

Remember, your questions reflect your values, so don’t let yours suggest you're focused on shortcuts.

Pro Tip: Make It Personal

Frame your questions around your genuine interests or goals. For example:

“As someone who thrives in collaborative environments, I’m curious, how does your program promote peer support or teamwork among students?”

Or:

“I’ve worked in both small community hospitals and large academic centers. What type of clinical environment do your students spend the most time in?”

These feel more natural and show self-awareness.

Final Thought: The Interview Goes Both Ways

Yes, the school is evaluating you, but you're also evaluating them. Asking meaningful questions helps you make an informed decision about where you’ll spend the next 2–4 years of your life and who will shape your development as a future APRN.

The goal isn’t to impress with flashy questions but to connect, clarify, and confirm alignment. Programs take note of applicants who think like this.