Preparing for the Kira Assessment: What It Is, What to Expect, and How to Excel In It

Many universities and business schools use asynchronous video assessments—most commonly Kira—to evaluate communication skills, motivation, and programme fit. Unlike a live interview, Kira presents timed prompts on screen and records your responses via webcam and microphone. Some formats also include short written responses under time pressure.

This guide explains what to expect and how to prepare effectively, so your performance is consistent with the rest of your application.

1) What the Kira Assessment Typically Involves

While formats vary, most Kira assessments include:

• Introduction & tech check: Identity confirmation, camera and microphone testing, practice questions.

• Video prompts: You see a question, have a brief prep window (often 30–60 seconds), then record for 60–120 seconds.

• Optional timed writing: Short written responses (e.g., 5–10 minutes) to motivation, fit, or situational prompts.

Assessment criteria usually include clarity of thought, structure, relevance, delivery, and fit with the programme.

If you are at the course selection stage or refining your shortlist, begin with Orientation. If you are preparing materials and submissions, consider Application Support.

2) How to Structure High-Scoring Answers

A simple, reliable structure reduces stress and improves quality:

• For behavioural/experience questions – STAR/CAR

  • Situation/Context – What was happening?

  • Task – What you set out to do

  • Action – What you did.

  • Result/Reflection – Outcome and what you learned (link it to the programme).

• For motivation/fit questions – Why You, Why This, Why Now

  • Why You – Relevant strengths and evidence.

  • Why This Programme – Specific modules, pedagogy, outcomes.

  • Why Now – Timing, goals, and trajectory.

• For opinion/case prompts – Claim, Reasons, Example, Rejoin

  • Clear position → 2 reasons → 1 concise example → brief counterpoint and close.

Keep sentences short, prioritise one idea per sentence, and end with a forward-looking line that connects to the programme.

3) Sample Kira-Style Questions with 60–90-Second Frameworks

Use these to rehearse under time limits.

1. Why are you applying to this programme?
   Frame: Why You, Why This, Why Now. Cite 1–2 modules or learning methods and link to your goals.

2. Tell us about a time you led a team through a challenge.
   Frame: STAR. End with a skill relevant to the course (e.g., data-driven decision-making, intercultural teamwork).

3. Describe a failure. What did you learn?
   Frame: STAR with accountability. Transition from mistake → insight → changed behaviour.

4. How do you handle ambiguity or incomplete data?
   Frame: Claim → approach (prioritise assumptions, quick tests, stakeholder alignment) → example → reflection.

5. What will you contribute to our cohort?
   Frame: 2–3 concrete contributions (skills, perspectives, initiatives) + link to student clubs or project work.

6. Ethical dilemma: you notice a teammate free-riding. What do you do?
   Frame: Principles → process (private conversation, clear deliverables, escalation path) → outcome.

7. Current issue in your field and its impact.
   Frame: Define the issue → 2 impacts → example → how programme content prepares you to respond.

8. Written prompt: Outline the skills you aim to develop and how you will use them after graduation (150–200 words).
   Frame: Current baseline → 2 skills → specific use case → measurable outcome.

   Written prompt: What is the biggest mistake people have made throughout history? (150–200 words).

   Frame: State the mistake→ 2 arguments to justify → 1 concrete example → how programme content will equip you to address complex challenges.

4) Delivery: How to Look and Sound Professional on Camera

• Framing & eye line: Camera at eye level, head and shoulders visible, look into the lens when concluding key points.

• Lighting & audio: Face lit from the front, minimal background noise, test levels.

• Pacing: Aim for ~140–160 words per minute. Pause briefly between sections.

• Presence: Neutral background, professional attire, calm posture, concise gestures.

• Time discipline: Practise 60–90-second answers. Close with a one-line link to programme fit.

If you want a personalised mock with feedback and a focused guide, consider our Interview & Entrance Exam preparation. If your messaging needs refinement, see Writing Services.