A substitute teacher interview is usually short and practical. Interviewers want to know that you will show up, follow plans, treat students well, and stay calm when a day does not go as planned. This page lists common questions, what each one is really asking, and how to build a good answer from your own experience. The answers are yours to write, so use these as a structure, not a script.
What interviewers listen for
- Reliability. Will you be on time and accept assignments you say you will?
- Professionalism. Will you follow the teacher’s plan and school rules?
- Composure. Can you stay steady with teenagers, strangers, and changing plans?
- Care for students. Will you keep them safe and treat them with respect?
Common questions and how to answer them
1. Why do you want to substitute teach?
Give one honest reason and tie it to the job: you enjoy working with students, you want classroom experience, or you want flexible work. Avoid answers that are only about the schedule.
2. What would you do in the first five minutes of a class?
Describe a clear routine: greet students, point to the directions, take attendance while students begin a task, and explain the next step. Our article on a substitute teacher’s first five minutes gives a full example you can adapt.
3. What if the teacher left no plans?
Say you would check the room and ask a neighboring teacher or the office first. If nothing turns up, you would use a backup activity that fits the grade and subject, and keep students supervised and working. The guide to what to do as a substitute teacher covers this step by step.
4. How would you handle a student who will not follow directions?
Talk about staying calm, speaking privately, giving a clear choice, and following the school’s behavior steps. Mention contacting the office when needed.
5. How would you respond if a student told you something worrying?
Say you would take it seriously and report it to the school right away following its procedures. You do not need to promise to solve it yourself.
6. How do you handle subjects you do not know well?
Explain that you read the plan ahead of time, stick to the directions, and use the answer key if provided. You are honest with students about what you do not know.
7. How do you keep older students on task?
Point to clear expectations, a visible task at the start, and respectful, firm communication. Avoid sounding like you plan to be strict for its own sake.
8. How do you handle a lesson that ends early?
Mention having extra activities ready, such as a short writing prompt, a puzzle, or a review game tied to the lesson.
9. How would you describe your strengths?
Choose two that apply to the job, like being dependable and calm, and give a quick example for each.
10. Do you have any questions for us?
Yes. Ask how assignments are offered, how often subs are needed, and where to find school procedures and emergency information.
Practice and prepare
- Write a few sentences for each question in your own words and read them out loud.
- Bring identification and any documents the district or staffing company requires. Requirements vary, so ask in advance.
- Dress as you would for a school day and arrive early.
Want a copy to practice from? Use your browser’s Print option and choose Save as PDF to keep this page on your phone or computer.
After you are hired
Read our guides on first-time substitute teacher tips and classroom management so your first assignment goes smoothly.
Keep reading
- Substitute Teacher Survival Kit Checklist – what to pack once you have the job.
- Substitute Teacher Activities, Grades 6-12 – backup ideas to mention in your answers.
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