The SABIS Interview Process
The SABIS interview process is structured and standardised, reflecting the network’s overall approach to education. Understanding what to expect — and how to prepare — significantly improves your chances of receiving an offer. SABIS interviews focus less on your teaching philosophy and more on your subject knowledge, willingness to work within a structured system, and alignment with SABIS values. This guide covers each stage of the process, common questions, and preparation strategies.
Interview Stages
| Stage | Format | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Application screening | Online review | 1-2 weeks | Qualifications, experience, subject match |
| 2. Initial interview | Video call (Zoom/Teams) | 20-30 minutes | Motivation, communication, SABIS awareness |
| 3. Subject test | Online assessment | 30-60 minutes | Subject knowledge depth |
| 4. Teaching demonstration | Live or recorded lesson | 15-20 minutes | Delivery, clarity, classroom presence |
| 5. Final interview | Video call with school director | 20-30 minutes | Cultural fit, contract discussion |
The Subject Test
SABIS requires candidates to take a subject knowledge test — this is distinctive and catches some teachers by surprise. The test assesses your depth of knowledge in your teaching subject at a level above what you would teach. A Mathematics teacher may face questions up to A-Level or first-year university standard, regardless of the year group they would teach. The rationale is that deep subject knowledge enables better teaching.
Preparation: Review your subject at a level above your target teaching range. Focus on conceptual understanding rather than rote recall. The test is typically multiple-choice or short-answer, administered online, and timed. A strong result significantly strengthens your candidacy. A weak result — even with strong teaching experience — can result in rejection. Take the test seriously and prepare accordingly.
Common Interview Questions
“Why SABIS?” — Demonstrate that you understand the SABIS system, appreciate its structured approach, and are genuinely interested in working within it. Generic answers about “wanting to teach abroad” are insufficient. Reference specific aspects: the Point System, the SLO, the data-driven approach, or the company’s history.
“How do you handle a classroom where students have not mastered the content?” — This tests your alignment with SABIS’s reteaching philosophy. The right answer involves using assessment data to identify gaps, reteaching through different methods, and retesting to confirm mastery. Avoid talking about “moving on” or “accepting that some students will not get it.”
“Describe your approach to following a structured curriculum.” — Be honest. If you prefer creating your own resources and following your own pace, SABIS is probably not the right fit. If you value structure, explain why: consistency, fairness, focus on delivery rather than resource creation, and the ability to learn from a proven system.
“How do you use data to inform your teaching?” — Provide specific examples of tracking student progress, identifying underperforming students, adjusting teaching strategies based on results, and setting targets. Data literacy is central to SABIS teaching.
The Demo Lesson
SABIS demo lessons assess your delivery, clarity, and classroom presence — not your creativity or innovation. Deliver a clear, well-structured lesson that follows a logical sequence: introduction, explanation, guided practice, independent practice, and plenary. Use the whiteboard/screen effectively. Speak clearly and check for understanding regularly. Avoid overly elaborate activities or technology-dependent approaches — SABIS values direct instruction and clarity. See our demo lesson guide.
Tips for Success
Research SABIS specifically: Visit sabis.net, read about the SABIS Educational System, and understand the Point System, AMS assessments, and SLO. Demonstrating genuine knowledge of the system is the single most effective interview strategy.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn: SABIS values teachers who are coachable and willing to work within the system. Emphasise your adaptability and openness to structured support.
Prepare questions: Ask about professional development opportunities within SABIS, the induction process for new teachers, the specific school’s community, and the country of the posting. Thoughtful questions demonstrate genuine interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How competitive is the SABIS recruitment process?
SABIS recruits a large number of teachers across its global network, so the process is less competitive than premium school networks like GEMS Tier 1 or Nord Anglia flagship schools. This is partly by design — SABIS’s structured system means they can train and develop teachers who may not have extensive experience. For experienced teachers, the process is straightforward. For NQTs and career changers, the interview is more rigorous, but SABIS remains one of the most accessible international school networks. See our teaching without experience guide.
