IE University Kira Assessment: Prepare for admission

Are you worried about the IE University online assessment (Kira)? You're not alone. Speaking to a camera in another language can be daunting, but the good news is that you can practice . You don't need to speak perfectly; with the right preparation, you can communicate your ideas with confidence.

In this guide, you'll learn what the Kira assessment is and what it's for , its format (video and written questions), and what you need to prepare beforehand. We offer a 7-day practice plan , typical practice questions with a method for answering them, common mistakes to avoid, a final checklist , and how this test connects to the IE University interview and admissions process .

By the end, you'll know how to prepare to face it calmly, even putting into practice some key Kira Talent tips .

What is the Online Assessment (Kira) at IE University and what is it for?

The IE University online assessment (conducted through the Kira Talent platform) is a key stage in the admissions process, designed to get to know the candidate beyond their grades and documents. After completing your application, the university invites you to this online test where you will answer short questions in video and written format, within a time limit. IE University explains on its official admissions website that this dynamic assessment allows the committee to better understand your personality , communication skills , and motivation through short answers. In other words, it's your opportunity to showcase your potential and reveal who you are beyond your academic record.

The goal of the Kira assessment isn't to give you a theoretical exam or trick you. The questions are designed to reveal how you think and express yourself , not to catch you out with impossible questions. In fact, many candidates find it 's not as intimidating as it seems once they prepare a little. One IE student commented that, while some questions surprised him, he realized they were more interested in understanding his thinking than evaluating him for perfect answers. So, while it's normal to feel nervous, keep in mind that the Admissions Committee genuinely wants to get to know you: to assess your clarity , judgment , communication skills, and how well you fit in with the IE University community .

The exact format of this assessment may vary depending on the program or application period. However, the approach is similar in all cases: spontaneous responses that reveal your personality and thinking. In the following section, we'll look at the typical format of the IE University Kira online assessment and what you need to prepare before you begin.

What is the format usually like: video, written, timings, and real-world experience?

Each candidate may experience a slightly different format, but in general, the IE University online assessment follows a similar pattern. It usually consists of about three questions in total: two video questions (you answer by speaking to the camera) and one written question (you write a short text). For each video question, the platform gives you a few seconds to think (prepare) and around 60-90 seconds to answer by recording your video. For the written question, you might have about 5 minutes to write a short paragraph. This can vary depending on the program, but the general idea is to answer concisely and clearly in a short amount of time. In total, the assessment usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish.

Before the official questions, Kira Talent gives you the opportunity to practice with rehearsal questions. Use these practice questions to familiarize yourself with the camera, check your audio, and calibrate your speaking or typing speed. The platform is very intuitive: first, it will check your connection, camera, and microphone; then you can make unlimited practice attempts until you feel comfortable; and only when you feel ready will you begin with the real questions. Note: in the official questions, you only have one chance to record or type each answer, with no second takes or editing, so stay calm and focused.

Generally, upon receiving the invitation from IE, you'll have several days (for example, a week) to complete the online assessment. The Kira Talent platform itself advises practicing well in advance, so don't leave it until the last minute : choose a day and time when you can be relaxed, uninterrupted, and in a positive frame of mind. The assessment is conducted in English (as is most of the process at IE University), so practice in that language. If English isn't your native language, don't worry: clarity of thought is valued more than grammatical perfection. With prior preparation, you'll be able to express yourself well even in another language.

Next, we delve into what you need to have ready before you start and what distinguishes a good answer in Kira.

What you need before starting (technical and environmental)

• Suitable equipment: Ideally, use a laptop or desktop computer with a working webcam and microphone . You can use a headset with a microphone if it helps you hear better, but make sure the audio is recorded clearly. Have your charger handy (you don't want your battery to die in the middle of the assessment).

• Stable internet connection: A strong Wi-Fi signal or, even better, a wired Ethernet connection will ensure that the video doesn't buffer or lag. Close any programs or downloads that might slow down your connection during the test.

• Updated browser: Kira Talent runs in a browser, so make sure you have the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, or another compatible browser installed. Grant the necessary camera and microphone permissions before starting to avoid any issues.

• Quiet and well-lit environment: Find a quiet place where you won't be interrupted. Let your family or roommates know you'll be in the assessment room so they don't enter. The lighting should be frontal (for example, near a window or lamp) so your face is clearly visible, and the background should ideally be neutral and tidy.

• Silent devices: Put your phone on silent mode and close messaging apps or notifications on your computer. Nothing's worse than a WhatsApp notification or a pop-up window distracting you mid-reply.

• Comfort and presentation: Sit comfortably in a chair, with the camera at eye level (you can stack books under your laptop if needed). Wear presentable but comfortable clothing, as if you were going to a casual interview: a suit isn't mandatory, but avoid pajamas or very informal attire.

• Other final preparations: Keep a glass of water handy in case your throat gets dry between questions. You can also have paper and a pencil to quickly jot down key ideas during the few seconds you have to prepare for each question (this can help you structure your answer). And, above all, take a deep breath before you begin: a few seconds of calm breathing will help you focus.

What makes an answer "good" (practical criteria)

• Answer the question: It may seem obvious, but many candidates get sidetracked. Read (or listen to) the question carefully and make sure your answer addresses exactly that. If you're asked about leadership experience , don't speak generally about teamwork; give a specific leadership example.

• Clarity and structure: Get to the point from the start. A good answer usually has a brief introduction with your main idea, then one or two supporting arguments or examples, and a conclusion that summarizes or summarizes. Avoid rambling or convoluted explanations; the evaluator should be able to easily follow your train of thought.

• Clarity and conciseness: With so little time, it's vital to be concise. A short but substantial answer is better than trying to say too much and not finishing any ideas. Instead of superficially listing five reasons, mention one or two strong reasons and explain them briefly. Also, be careful not to exceed the video time limit or write excessively long paragraphs in your written response.

• Examples and personal honesty: Memorable answers often include a personal touch. For example, if asked, “Why IE University?”, an effective answer will talk about your real reasons (such as the program that interests you, something you experienced at the Open Day, etc.) instead of spouting generic phrases from the brochure. Don't be afraid to show your genuine personality and values. However, always maintain a professional and respectful tone.

• Communicate confidently: What you say and how you say it matters. Speak in an audible and calm tone, enunciate clearly, and look at the camera (not the screen or the ceiling). Avoid a monotone: show energy and interest (without overdoing it). If you ever draw a blank, it's better to pause for a couple of seconds to regain your train of thought than to constantly fill in the blanks with filler words ("um," "uh").

• Sufficient grammatical accuracy: Don't obsess over speaking perfect Oxford English. It's more important to be understood than to use complicated words. Even so, pay attention to basic grammar and avoid mistakes that could change the meaning of what you're saying. If written English isn't your strong suit, focus on simple, clear sentences. Remember: your communication skills are being assessed, not a grammar exam.

How to prepare in 7 days (realistic plan)

Let's assume you have 7 days left until your Kira assessment. Here's a short plan (15-30 minutes per day) to help you approach it with confidence:

1. Day 1: Get acquainted with the material. Dedicate this day to fully understanding what will be required of you. Review the official IE University information about the online assessment (format, instructions, etc.) and ensure your equipment and environment are ready (see previous section). You could even try a practice question on your own to get an initial sense of how you feel speaking to the camera. Objective: to understand what IE expects from this test and resolve any technical issues beforehand.

2. Day 2: Reflect on your story. Take 20 minutes to jot down your key ideas for common questions in a notebook or document: Why do you want to study at IE University? Why this program/degree? What are your achievements or experiences that you are most proud of? What do you bring to the table as a student? Don't write full speeches, just bullet points with the main answers you would give. This will help you gain clarity on your motivations and personal examples you could mention. Goal: To have clear reasons and personal stories so you can naturally incorporate them into your answers.

3. Day 3: Practice out loud. Choose a couple of questions (for example, “Briefly introduce yourself” or “Why are you interested in IE University?”) and answer them out loud, timing yourself (60-90 seconds). If possible, record yourself with your webcam or at least your phone. Then review the video: Are you speaking too fast? Are you clear? Are you smiling or do you have a very serious expression? Identify one or two areas for improvement (for example, “pause more,” “look at the camera,” or “avoid filler words”). Objective: to become aware of your spoken English and familiarize yourself with speaking to a camera.

4. Day 4: Improve your structure. Review the response framework we propose below (Idea → Reason → Example → Conclusion). Now apply it: select a more challenging question (e.g., “Tell us about a mistake or failure and what you learned”) and quickly plan how you would answer it using this structure. Then record yourself answering in 60-90 seconds, trying to spend a few seconds on each part of the framework. Also, practice a short written response : choose a sample written question (e.g., “Describe your greatest strength and weakness”) and write a paragraph in 5 minutes. Check if your written response has a beginning, middle, and end. Goal: to improve the logic and organization of your responses, ensuring you answer the question directly with a clear beginning and end.

5. Day 5: Polishing Language and Filler Words. Today, focus on clear communication . Ask yourself another couple of questions out loud, but this time be careful not to use filler words (“um,” “like,” “I mean”) and to use precise vocabulary. If you tend to stumble over an English word, look for a simpler synonym. You can prepare a list of connectors (“firstly,” “on the other hand,” “in my experience”) to make your arguments flow more smoothly. Goal: to eliminate distractions in your language and ensure that your ideas are conveyed clearly and professionally.

6. Day 6: Full Mock Exam. It's time to rehearse the entire assessment. Ask friends or family to prepare three surprise questions for you (you can use the ones from the typical questions section, randomly mixed up). Recreate the real conditions: if you have someone to play "Kira" and ask you the questions, great; otherwise, simply write them down on paper, set a timer, and answer them all in a row as you would on the platform. Try not to stop recording between questions; this simulates continuous pressure. Then review your answers: Did you stay within the time limit for each one? Did you maintain energy and clarity until the last question? Identify any final details to improve (for example, "I went on too long in question 1" or "I didn't look at the camera in question 3"). Goal: to get used to answering several questions in a row under a time limit and gain confidence by seeing that you can do it from beginning to end.

7. Day 7: Light review and mental preparation. The day before (or the morning of) your assessment, don't overload yourself. Review your final checklist (equipment, environment, etc.) and read your notes or motivational bullet points one last time. If necessary, practice one simple question just to warm up, but nothing more. Opt for a relaxing activity to clear your mind. Get a good night's sleep. Before starting the assessment, take three deep breaths. Remind yourself that you've already prepared and that you don't need to be perfect to make a good impression, just be genuine and clear. Goal: to arrive calm, confident, and focused when the moment of truth arrives, with everything important already prepared.

Typical questions (and how to answer them) — practice bank

We can't know exactly what you'll be asked, but we can prepare for the most common topics . Below is a bank of practice questions grouped by type. The Kira IE University assessment may vary each year, but it typically includes questions about motivation, personality, situations, opinions, and creativity, such as the ones below. Note: these are not the actual IE questions, but rather examples for you to practice. When rehearsing, focus on answering clearly and honestly, applying the tips and structure we've discussed.

Motivation (personal motivations, why IE University and the program):

• Why do you want to study at IE University?

• What attracts you to the degree or program you have chosen (and why)?

• How do you think IE University will help you achieve your future goals?

Personality and values (your way of being, collaboration, work ethic):

• Tell us about a time when you demonstrated leadership .

• Describe a difficult situation in which you had to work as part of a team . What role did you take?

• What do you value most in an academic or work environment (e.g., honesty, teamwork, perseverance)?

Situational (conflict management, pressure, failures):

• Describe a conflict you had in a group and explain how you resolved it.

• Have you faced any major failures or mistakes? What did you learn from that experience?

• Describe how you prioritize your tasks when you have many responsibilities at once and they are all important.

Opinion or viewpoint (open questions on general topics):

• In your opinion, what quality is most important for a leader to be successful?

• Do you believe that online education should be a fundamental part of the modern university? Briefly defend your position.

• What does “ success ” in life mean to you?

Creativity and problem-solving:

• If you could solve one global problem (for example, climate change), which one would you choose and why?

• Imagine you have to explain a complex concept (e.g., blockchain or the theory of relativity) to a 5-year-old child. How would you do it in simple terms?

• You are assigned an important project at the last minute with a very tight deadline. Describe how you would organize this work to meet the objective on time.

Tip: Practice answering these questions aloud or in writing. Then analyze your answers: Are you providing concrete details about your life? Is your main idea clear? Remember to adapt the framework we'll see below to each answer as needed.

Framework for responding in a video in 60–90 seconds (without sounding rehearsed)

Speaking into a camera while the clock is ticking can be challenging. To avoid rambling or going blank, it's helpful to follow a short mental script . A simple framework that works well is this 4-step one:

1. Main idea: Begin by directly answering the question with your central idea. (Example: "One of my main motivations for studying at IE University is its international focus" ).

2. Reason or explanation: Briefly explain why you say that, providing context or a reason. (Example: "Because I want to train in a multicultural environment" ).

3. Example or concrete fact: Provide an example, anecdote, or fact that supports your idea. (Example: "A year ago, I attended an IE open class and met students from 10 different nationalities." )

4. Closing or conclusion: End by wrapping up the idea, connecting it back to the question, or summarizing your point. (Example: "That's why I'm sure IE is the place where I want to continue my education." )

With this structure (Idea → Reason → Example → Conclusion), your answers will flow clearly and sound complete, even if you only have one minute. Furthermore, it will help you avoid sounding memorized : by having the four steps clearly defined, you can improvise within that framework without reciting a fixed script.

Let's see what an answer looks like when applied to a common question, comparing a better version vs. a weaker one:

Example question: “Why are you interested in IE University?”

Good answer (example): “IE University appeals to me because of its international and practical approach. For example, its curriculum combines theory with real-world projects, which aligns perfectly with my learning style. I also value diversity: I'm excited to live and work alongside classmates from many countries because I know it will help me grow both personally and professionally. In fact, I spoke with an IE student last year and was impressed by the collaborative community they described. For all these reasons, I'm convinced that IE is the ideal place to develop my business career and contribute my best.”

Bad answer (example): “The truth is, I want to study at IE University because it has a very good reputation and it's in Spain. I really like its campus and I think the university will help me get a good job in the future. Also, it's an international university and I think that will be good for me. I've seen photos of the campus that look modern and I know that IE is well-ranked, so it seems like a good option for my education.”

Analysis: In the first response, the candidate provides concrete and personal reasons (mentioning the practical approach, the diversity, and even a real conversation with a student) and connects everything to why these factors motivate them to choose IE. It is structured, demonstrates research, and shows genuine enthusiasm. In contrast, the second response is generic and superficial: it could apply to any university (good reputation, good campus) and doesn't demonstrate any real interest beyond the typical arguments. Furthermore, it lacks examples or details that would make it memorable. This contrast illustrates why it's important to dedicate time to crafting substantive answers, but without memorizing word for word: it's about having clear ideas and communicating them with confidence.

Common mistakes made by Spanish-speaking candidates (Spain and LATAM) and how to avoid them

We've noticed some common pitfalls for Spanish-speaking candidates when facing Kira interviews (or online interviews in general). Here are 9 typical mistakes and, more importantly, how you can avoid them :

• Speaking too fast: Nerves sometimes make us rush. If you speak at full speed in English, you can be difficult to understand. Solution: Deliberately practice at a slower pace than you think is normal, pausing briefly between ideas. Control your breathing before starting each answer to stay calm.

• Overusing filler words: “um,” “uh,” “like,” “you know”... These filler words are common when we think out loud, but too much of them are distracting and make us look insecure. Solution: Record yourself and count how many filler words you use; then, aim to reduce that number. One trick is to learn to pause silently : if you need a second to think, it’s better to be quiet than to fill the gap with “um.”

• Not looking at the camera: Some candidates stare at their notes, the screen, or down at the camera, which breaks eye contact. Solution: Position your camera at eye level and practice answering questions by looking at the webcam dot, imagining the interviewer is there. You can stick a smiley face sticky note next to the camera to remind yourself to look there.

• Very generic or indirect answers: Sometimes, for fear of making a mistake, a candidate beats around the bush and never answers the question directly. Solution: Structure your answers (for example, using the framework we discussed) to get straight to the point. If you're asked about "a weakness," provide a real weakness and how you'll improve it, instead of just throwing out a lot of irrelevant information.

• Rehearsed answers from memory: It's obvious when someone is reciting a memorized paragraph word for word: their intonation sounds artificial, and if the question changes, they're lost. Solution: Don't write entire speeches for every possible question. Instead, prepare flexible ideas and anecdotes that you can adapt. Practice speaking spontaneously, starting from different key points each time; this way, you'll sound natural but with consistent content.

• Monotonous or unenthusiastic tone: Because they're concentrating on the English or remembering what they're going to say, some candidates speak in a flat voice, without any emphasis. Solution: Work on your expressiveness: vary your tone depending on what you're saying (for example, show enthusiasm when talking about what you're passionate about, and seriousness when talking about responsibilities). Smiling slightly while you speak can help you project a warmer and more pleasant voice.

• Failing to wrap up your thoughts: In timed questions, it's common to run out of time and be left hanging, or simply end abruptly without a conclusion. Solution: Practice time management: Get used to keeping an eye on the clock during rehearsals to know when to wrap up. Include closing phrases (“in summary…”, “therefore…”) when there are only a few seconds left, to give that final touch, however brief.

• Neglecting the technical aspects: Pixelated video, distorted audio, poor lighting... These are "silly" mistakes, but they happen. Solution: Check all the technical aspects the day before (see our final checklist). Make a test video and make sure you look and sound good. Add extra lighting if needed, use an external microphone if the laptop's built-in one sounds bad, etc. These details add to your professionalism.

• Letting nerves take over: If you get extremely nervous, you might go blank or freeze up. Solution: Prepare stress management techniques: for example, deep breathing before you start, muscle relaxation exercises, or remembering that "this is just a short conversation, not the end of the world." If you get nervous mid-answer, don't panic: you can pause, take a breath, and continue. That's better than continuing to ramble nonsensically.

Final checklist before conducting the evaluation

Before starting your online assessment at Kira, review this quick checklist to make sure everything is in order:

• Webcam and microphone working: Test your camera and microphone in Kira Talent's settings or with a video call app. Check the framing (make sure your face and shoulders are clearly visible) and the audio level.

• Stable connection: If possible, use an Ethernet cable or position yourself as close to the router as possible. Have a backup plan (e.g., mobile data) in case the internet fails.

• Appropriate background and lighting: A tidy background, free of distracting elements. Sufficient frontal light (natural or lamp) so that your face is clearly visible. Avoid backlighting (don't sit with a window directly behind you).

• Controlled noise: Close the door, silence your phone, and turn off computer notifications. If there are any potential noises (pets, traffic), take precautions (for example, isolate yourself or warn others).

• Battery charged: Connect your laptop to a power source or check that the battery is at 100%. You don't want any unexpected power outages.

• Documentation at hand: Have your ID/passport nearby in case the platform requests it at startup (some do so to validate identity).

• Posture and appearance: Sit up straight but relaxed. Wear comfortable but presentable clothing (smart casual is fine). Make sure you look professional on camera (hair styled, etc.).

• Water and support materials: A glass of water nearby (in case your mouth gets dry). Paper and a pen ready if you plan to take notes while preparing questions.

• Breathing and calming: Just before you begin, take a few deep breaths. Remember that you have prepared; trust yourself. Maintain a positive attitude: think of it as an opportunity to tell your story.

• Timing and pace: During the test, remember to use the initial preparation time for each question. Carefully read the question prompt before typing. And if something goes wrong technically, stay calm and try to reconnect; IE usually gives you the option to resume if there's a genuine technical issue.

Checklist complete! If all these points are OK, you're ready to do your best in your online assessment.

And the IE University interview? How to connect Kira with the interview and the rest of the process

The personal interview is another possible stage in IE University's admissions process. We say "possible" because it doesn't always happen: some candidates are n't invited for an interview after the online assessment, while others are. According to IE, this isn't inherently good or bad; the Committee simply decides on a case-by-case basis whether further investigation is needed before making a final decision. When an IE University interview takes place, it's usually with a member of the Admissions team or a professor, and it can be conducted via video call or in person.

If you get to the interview, keep in mind that the interviewer will likely have already reviewed your application and your answers from the Kira online assessment. It's common for them to ask you something related to what you mentioned in your videos or written work. For example, if you talked about a volunteer project in Kira, be prepared to elaborate on it in the interview. The key is to maintain consistency : don't contradict what you said in Kira; instead, expand on those points with more thought. The interview tends to be more conversational and open-ended than Kira (you'll be able to elaborate more on each answer and ask follow-up questions if something isn't clear), but the basics of preparation are similar: be well-informed about your motivations, practice your spoken English, and research IE and the program to demonstrate genuine interest.

In short, the online assessment and the interview are complementary . Both aim to create a complete profile of you as a candidate. If you want to know how these stages fit together with the others (tests, forms, etc.), we recommend reading our article on the IE University admissions process, where we detail the entire process step by step, from the tests to final enrollment. With this overview, you'll better understand what IE is looking for at each stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kira at IE University?

Kira is an online interview platform that IE University uses in its admissions process. Through it, candidates answer several questions via video (recording themselves with a webcam) and in writing. The goal is for the Admissions Committee to get to know your communication skills, personality, and motivation beyond your academic grades.

How to practice for the online assessment?

Practice recording yourself in situations similar to the test. For example, take typical questions and answer them in English, timing yourself for about one minute per answer. Review your recordings to improve. Also, use the practice questions provided by Kira Talent before the actual assessment.

What kind of questions do they usually ask?

The questions cover your motivations (e.g., "Why do you want to study at IE University?"), your personality and experiences (e.g., "Tell us about a challenge you overcame"), challenging or unsuccessful situations, and some opinion or creativity prompts. They are open-ended questions, without "right" answers, designed to understand how you think.

How to respond in a video without sounding rehearsed?

Instead of memorizing a speech, prepare a mental outline (main idea → reason → example → conclusion). Practice responding in your own words each time, following that structure. This helps you maintain spontaneity. Speak in a natural, conversational tone to avoid sounding like you're reciting.

What mistakes should I avoid?

Avoid mainly: speaking too quickly (nerves make it hard to understand; breathe and slow down), giving generic answers (be specific and personal in your examples), and memorizing speeches (it sounds forced; it's better to improvise with an outline). Also, pay attention to technical aspects: good lighting, clear audio, and a stable connection.

When is it advisable to seek external help?

If, despite practicing, you still feel insecure, or if the admissions process overwhelms you (for example, applying from another country or to a highly competitive program), it's time to seek help. An admissions counselor or program can provide you with a personalized strategy, answer corrections, and support to increase your chances of success.

How to get help depending on your situation

If you're applying from outside Spain or want comprehensive support throughout your admissions process—strategy, personal statement, test preparation, interviews, and paperwork—we recommend our Admissions Excellence Program (AEP) . With AEP, you'll receive personalized, one-on-one guidance from start to finish to strengthen your application. Click here to request an initial AEP assessment .

On the other hand, if you've already been admitted to IE University (or are about to be) and want to get an academic advantage, check out MS Academy . It's our online tutoring academy specializing in IE students, where you can improve your math and academic English skills and develop good study habits before starting university. Discover more details and courses here.

Good luck with your assessment, Kira, and the entire admissions process at IE University! If you prepare and put these tips into practice, you'll be one step closer to your goal.