Have a question about your Final Assessment? You’re not the only one. Here’s what other candidates have recently asked APC Assessors during the free monthly Q&A run by the RICS Training.
In the interview, will the assessors make it clear which competency level they are targeting or is it a case of working that out for yourself?
Although sometimes they may do, Assessors are trained to signpost the competency but not the level. It doesn’t happen every time though for various reasons, so train yourself to listen out for keywords.
Do you have any guidance on handling open-ended questions?
The skill is to pick up on any signposting in the question. Once you have this, give a concise (but not one word) answer. If the assessor then needs more information, it’s their job to get it from you.
How long do the questions on ethics last?
Typically about 10 minutes - remember one wrong answer means immediate referral so don’t overlook them!
I've not sat the final interview before. How similar is it to a job interview? Will we get questions like "what are your weaknesses?"
The questions are all based on the competencies and to the levels you have recorded. It’s in a panel format with usually two assessors and a chairperson and it is formal process so expect that, but it’s a professional and technical assessment, not a personality test.
Do you have any general advice on how to prepare?
The key to success is planning - don’t leave it all to the last minute. Plan your APC studies into your working week. It may be daunting but breaking it down into manageable chunks helps. You will have the degree or relevant qualifications, the key is now applying yourself. Always seek help wherever you can, whether it’s from your supervisor, counsellor or external resources such as RICS training or events.
These ‘Ask me anything’ sessions take place once a month. They are an opportunity for you to put your questions about any part of the process to an APC Assessor, or the RICS Membership and Training teams.