Since 2013, Fullstack Academy has been one of the best coding bootcamps for aspiring software developers in the United States. The bootcamp is known for its three-part interview, which is a critical part of its admissions process. The good news is that, with adequate preparation, you can ace the Fullstack Academy coding bootcamp interview on your first try.
Keep reading to learn all about the application process for this bootcamp, including several Fullstack Academy interview questions and examples of strong answers. Once you complete an immersive bootcamp program, you will be well on your way to achieving your tech career goals. According to its website, Fullstack Academy graduates earn a median wage of $85,200.
What to Expect in Your Fullstack Academy Interview
The Fullstack Academy interview is divided into three parts. These are the introduction, a technical interview, and question and answer (Q&A). It is an interactive process so you should be prepared to have a two-way conversation with a member of the admissions team. You will also have an opportunity to ask questions about the Fullstack experience.
Fullstack Academy Technical Interview
The technical interview is the second part of the Fullstack Academy interview process. It is a 60-minute pair programming section designed to determine how much knowledge you have of coding. Your critical thinking skills will also be tested during this stage. Fullstack Academy typically provides materials that you can use to prepare for the programming interview before it takes place.
Fullstack Academy Behavioral Interview
The behavioral interview is a question and answer section that comes after the technical interview. During this part, you should expect questions that offer the interviewer insight into your interpersonal and soft skills. Studying Fullstack Academy reviews online will give you an idea of what to expect during this part.
Is the Fullstack Academy Interview Hard?
Yes, the Fullstack Academy interview is hard because of the technical challenges involved. Without ample preparation, you may not know what type of questions or challenges you will face during the interview. The good news is that you can pass the interview on your first try as long as you meet the admissions criteria and display the right set of skills during the interview.
There are many aspiring coders who wish to become full stack developers, as this is a career path with lucrative pay and job opportunities. According to ZipRecruiter, a full stack developer earns an average salary of $102,744. In turn, this makes bootcamp programs more popular and more difficult to get into.
How Long Does the Fullstack Academy Interview Process Take?
The entire process runs for about 60 to 90 minutes and it is usually conducted over video conferencing or in-person in the New York campus. The bulk of the time will be spent on the pair programming part of the interview, while the rest is evenly distributed between the introduction and Q&A sections.
Fullstack Academy Technical Interview Questions You Should Expect
What is JavaScript and Why is it Important?
This is one of the primary programming technologies you will need to master during your time at Fullstack Academy. It is also one of the most in-demand languages in the software engineering industry. The interviewer wants to know if you understand how vital learning JavaScript is to you as a software developer and what previous experience you may have.
Sample Answer
JavaScript is an interpreted scripting language that is used for client-side development. JavaScript is currently the most popular programming language for creating web applications and websites. It is renowned for its role in ensuring an interactive user experience.
Can You Write a JavaScript Code With Proper Function?
So you know the definition of JavaScript, but can you write a simple JavaScript code? The interviewer does not want you to build an entire website, but during the pair programming section, you may be required to build a functional JavaScript code to show you know the fundamentals of programming. It could be a code for an ecommerce site or a traditional website.
Sample Answer
Could you elaborate on the purpose of the code? JavaScript code is most commonly embedded in HTML as the identifying script type. Giving me specific details on what to write will help me answer the question.
What Do You Think is More Important in Development, Speed or Clarity?
The interviewer already knows the answer to this question but they want to know what you prioritize. While it is asked during the technical stage of the interview, it is also designed to test some of your non-technical skills. Most people with programming experience know how important clean code can be at every project phase.
Sample Answer
The quality of a product is an important aspect of software development but it would be unwise to dismiss development speed. Projects typically come with deadlines and every member of the development team will be required to work with the same roadmap. So, it is important to find a balance between quality and speed.
What Are Logical Errors in Programming?
If you have basic programming knowledge, you should know what errors are even if you do not have specific knowledge of how to avoid them. The interviewer wants to know if you understand the concept so you should answer specifically to show that you know what you are talking about.
Sample Answer
In software development, a logical error occurs in the source code and forces the computer program to act incorrectly. This runtime error is one of the most difficult to discover during programming. You can use a debugger to fix logical errors.
What Is Programming Documentation and Why is it Important?
The interviewer presents basic questions like this to find out if you are familiar with the benefits of documentation during development projects. When you are answering, make sure you mention the role of documentation in collaborative projects.
Sample Answer
Programming documentation is the process of embedding short descriptions in the source code of your software. It may be used to illustrate the role of specific blocks of code or provide instructions regarding how the software was developed. Documentation is especially important during collaborative projects because it gives all the programmers involved a clear picture.
Fullstack Academy Non-technical Interview Questions You Should Expect
Why Do You Think You Are a Good Fit Fullstack Academy?
Behavioral interview questions like this are used to find out how much you know about the culture at Fullstack Academy. It is also used to gauge your confidence and passion for learning software engineering.
Sample Answer
Ever since I was a child, I have been technologically inclined. I would look at computer programmers with eager eyes to find out how they work. I believe that Fullstack Academy is the perfect place to learn the programming skills that will help me accomplish my dreams. I have researched thoroughly and I can tell that this bootcamp aligns with my vision.
Have You Ever Attended a Coding School?
The interviewer wants to know how much coding experience you have and how quickly you learn. Whether you have attended a bootcamp or learned computer programming on your own, don’t be afraid to tell the truth.
Sample Answer
No, I have never attended a coding school before. However, I have taken advantage of coding courses on Udemy. I also took the 15-hour-long prep course offered by Fullstack Academy ahead of this interview. I am interested in learning more.
What Are Your Short and Long-term Goals in the Technology Industry?
You should always be certain about your goals before you attend an interview. Bootcamps like Fullstack Academy are interested in qualified candidates. These candidates often have clear and precise pictures of what future career opportunities they will strive for with the education they receive.
Sample Answer
My short-term goal is to acquire in-demand knowledge and kickstart my career in the industry. In the next five years, I see myself as a senior software developer in a Fortune 500 company. In 10 years, my goal is to be a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and eventually a Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Do You Currently Have a Full-time Job?
The full-time program at Fullstack Academy is incredibly extensive. The interviewer wants to know if you have the time to follow through so you do not drop out along the way. Answer the question honestly and make it clear that you are willing to make the necessary sacrifices.
Sample Answer
Yes, I currently have a job but I have switched my schedule to part-time so I can meet the demand of the rigorous Fullstack Academy curriculum. I also have some money saved up so I can take a few weeks off and focus on the program if I become overwhelmed.
Do You Have Other Interests Beyond Software Development?
The interviewer isn’t trying to find out if you have hobbies, they want to know if you are versatile enough to handle multiple roles in the tech industry. This makes sense since most job openings demand a general background in multiple areas.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
Sample Answer
Yes, apart from software engineering, I have an interest in project management and data analytics. I have a data analytics degree and I have taken several project management courses as well. I hope to dive deeper into these areas in due time.
What Questions Should I Ask at My Fullstack Academy Interview?
During the question and answer section of the Fullstack Academy interview, you can ask questions about the admission process, career services for bootcamp grads, financing options, acceptance rate, or anything else. Make sure that your questions are specific and reasonable. Do some thorough research before the interview and write down questions you wish to ask.
- How often will I be expected to complete group assignments?
- If I enroll in the in-person program, can I switch to the remote option along the line?
- What qualifications do the software engineering instructors have?
- What does Fullstack Academy do to help graduates in their job search?
- How many students are in each class?
How to Prepare for the Fullstack Academy Interview
Fullstack Academy has an entire blog post filled with resources to help you pass the interview. Fullstack Academy’s post can be summarized into the three major tips listed below. While any kind of interview can be stressful, take a few deep breaths and remember that proper preparation is the best way to impress the Fullstack Academy team.
1. Your Passion is Just as Important as Your Skills
You may get carried away by the initial coding assessment and pair programming interview. However, the video conferencing interview is designed to show the interviewer how passionate you are about your new career in technology. Only the most passionate student can follow the rigorous schedule and adapt to the bootcamp’s culture.
2. Feel Free to Ask Questions
The staff at Fullstack Academy is always happy to provide assistance even during the pair programming stage. Instead of doing the wrong thing because you are confused, ask questions when you need clarity. After all, that’s one of the points of pair programming for software engineers.
3. Do Your Research
Despite the resources available at Fullstack Academy, it is difficult to predict which exact questions you will be asked during your interview. So, the best way to prepare is to learn as much as you can about Fullstack Academy ahead of the interview. This way, you will be able to convince the interviewer that you are a good fit.
What Students Have to Say About Fullstack Academy Interviews
Christopher Linares
Type of interview: Video interview
“Pair programming, behavioral & technical admissions interview (keeps most of the toxic applicants & bro culture out), React/Functional programming heavy curriculum for seven+ weeks.”
Kevin Lam
Type of interview: Video interview
“You are required to pass multiple online assessments as well as technical interviews. Once you pass you will be invited to a technical interview with a fellow from Fullstack Academy. Your results will determine whether you move forward with the application process. You may be required to complete an online workshop that includes another online assessment of the material given. You will receive your acceptance into the immersive program based on your results.”
How Long Does It Take to Hear Back From Fullstack Academy After the Interview?
It takes about one to five working days to hear from the admissions team after the Fullstack Academy interview has been completed. Some applicants get accepted on the same day if their interviews are scheduled early.
If you are accepted, you will receive an email and be asked to schedule an appointment with one of the founders of Fullstack Academy. This is like a welcome to Fullstack Academy conversation during which you can discuss your goals for the bootcamp.
What Is the Fullstack Academy Application Process?
The application process at Fullstack Academy is divided into stages, just like the process in similarly ranked bootcamps. It is critical that you follow the steps judiciously if you want to pass the interview process on your first try. The right steps are listed below.
- Learn the fundamentals of coding with a free Fullstack Academy prep course.
- Fill the online application form on the official website.
- Take the online logic-based exam.
- Take the 60-minute coding interview and pair programming.
- If you pass, move on to enrollment.
Am I Ready for the Fullstack Academy Interview?
Yes, now that you know the possible technical and non-technical questions you will be asked during the interview, you are ready. Beyond coding, Fullstack Academy is looking for prospective students with passion. So, even if you do not know the basics of coding, you may stand a chance if you can demonstrate that you are serious and committed to this journey.
Fullstack Academy Interview Questions FAQ
You can ace your Fullstack Academy entrance interview by preparing thoroughly before the scheduled date. There are multiple online resources that provide good insight into the process. Most of these resources are provided by Fullstack Academy and its staff. Show your passion for career success working in the tech scene and brush up on your hard skills.
You need to learn the fundamentals of coding, apply online, take the interview, and pass the pair programming challenge to stand a chance at getting admitted into Fullstack Academy. If you fail, you can try again after a while. Note that you will only be allowed to re-apply once.
No, Fullstack Academy is for people with fundamental and advanced knowledge of programming. This is why part of the interview involves a coding challenge. You need to understand the basics before you can enroll and take the bootcamp prep course.
Students in the in-person bootcamp attend classes two nights per week for six months. Those in the remote program attend classes one night per week. The curriculum is designed to allow full-time workers to hold on to their jobs while they study.
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