What technical topics are commonly covered in underwriting interviews?

Expect questions about risk assessment, premium calculations, policy structures, reinsurance, and regulatory compliance based on your target insurance sector.

How should I answer a question about declining a risky policy?

Explain how you assessed the risk using data, followed underwriting guidelines, communicated with stakeholders, and documented the decision clearly and professionally.

Are scenario-based questions part of the interview?

Yes, you may be asked how you’d handle hypothetical underwriting cases, requiring you to demonstrate your logic, risk reasoning, and policy knowledge.

What soft skills are tested during interviews?

Interviewers assess your attention to detail, communication skills, ethical decision-making, and how well you collaborate with teams like sales or claims.

What’s a good way to stand out in an underwriting interview?

Showcase real examples of how you applied underwriting logic, handled exceptions, or improved processes, and support answers with data when possible.

What Excel functions are essential for Underwriters?

Common functions include IF, VLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, SUMIFS, and conditional formatting to streamline data review, risk classification, and report creation.

Do Underwriters have team meetings?

Yes, daily or weekly meetings are common for discussing changes in policy guidelines, sharing insights, and resolving challenging or unusual cases.

Common interview questions for Insurance Underwriter roles

Landing a position as an Insurance Underwriter requires more than just technical know-how—it also demands strong communication, sound judgment, and attention to detail. Interviews are designed to test your understanding of underwriting principles, your ability to assess risk, and how you interact with brokers and colleagues. Being well-prepared with thoughtful, structured responses will help you stand out. Here are common interview questions you can expect, along with guidance on how to answer them effectively.

1. How do you evaluate whether an applicant is an acceptable risk?

This is your opportunity to walk through your risk assessment process. Mention steps such as:

Reviewing application data and claims history
Consulting underwriting guidelines
Assessing financial ratios, lifestyle factors, or environmental exposure
Considering recommendations from field agents or brokers

Demonstrate that your decisions are data-driven but also balanced by sound judgment.

2. How do you handle situations where a broker disagrees with your underwriting decision?

Highlight your ability to communicate clearly and maintain professionalism. A sample response:

“I listen carefully to the broker’s concerns, re-evaluate the file based on new information, and explain the rationale behind the decision. If appropriate, I suggest alternative terms that could align with both the client’s needs and our risk appetite.”

3. What tools or software have you used in past underwriting roles?

List specific platforms such as:

Guidewire or Duck Creek for policy management
Microsoft Excel for risk scoring and premium calculations
LexisNexis or ISO for risk data and claims analysis

If you’re a beginner, emphasize your willingness and ability to learn industry software quickly.

4. Describe a time you made a difficult underwriting decision. How did you handle it?

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe a real case. Focus on:

How you gathered and analyzed data
How you communicated with stakeholders
What outcome resulted from your decision

This demonstrates your judgment and accountability.

5. How do you stay current with changes in underwriting guidelines and industry trends?

Mention activities like:

Attending continuing education and certification programs
Reading industry publications or newsletters
Participating in training offered by your organization or industry groups

Questions You Can Ask the Interviewer

At the end of the interview, asking thoughtful questions shows engagement. For example:

“What types of risks does your underwriting team specialize in?”
“What are the key performance metrics for success in this role?”
“How is technology integrated into the underwriting process here?”

Final Thoughts

Being prepared for an Insurance Underwriter interview means more than knowing the numbers—you need to convey confidence, flexibility, and a strong understanding of risk assessment. By preparing structured responses and asking strategic questions, you can show that you’re not just capable—but the right fit for the role.

Frequently Asked Questions

What technical topics are commonly covered in underwriting interviews?: Expect questions about risk assessment, premium calculations, policy structures, reinsurance, and regulatory compliance based on your target insurance sector.
How should I answer a question about declining a risky policy?: Explain how you assessed the risk using data, followed underwriting guidelines, communicated with stakeholders, and documented the decision clearly and professionally.
Are scenario-based questions part of the interview?: Yes, you may be asked how you’d handle hypothetical underwriting cases, requiring you to demonstrate your logic, risk reasoning, and policy knowledge.
What Excel functions are essential for Underwriters?: Common functions include IF, VLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, SUMIFS, and conditional formatting to streamline data review, risk classification, and report creation. Learn more on our Top Excel Skills for Insurance Underwriters page.
Do Underwriters have team meetings?: Yes, daily or weekly meetings are common for discussing changes in policy guidelines, sharing insights, and resolving challenging or unusual cases. Learn more on our A Day in the Life of an Insurance Underwriter page.