I've applied for several PhD places, and got interviews, but never further. Presumably I'm bad at interviews I know, but:
1. How many places is the average to apply for before you get one? From where I'm doing an MSc, most people seem to have just got one, without having to go through more than 1 interview, or similar. I'm not able to go straight onto a course as my current supervisor is leaving the university.

Further question in next post.

Thank you for your help, anyone who can answer any of this.

I had 3 interviews and was successful in the third one, which was actually the easiest. The previous studentships were highly competitive but the one I was offered had very few applicants. You need a bit of luck I think. You will get there eventually....

keep applying. i had six regrets before getting my first acceptance. and am still receiving them :). make as many applications as possible.

Took me ages to get a place too, but it may not be because you are bad at interviews...it can be just down to the other candidates having more relevant qualifications i.e. better fitting the bill, and therefore they are chosen over you. Just keep applying, and eventually you will be the one they are looking for. Just be patient. If this continues you can contact your interviewers and ask them politely where you went wrong, in order to give you some helpful advice