What to Expect and How to Prepare

College interviews are a two-way street—a conversation. This is your opportunity to learn more about the college’s programs and culture, just as they learn more about you. Interviews typically last between 20 and 40 minutes and can be conducted in person on campus, virtually, or even locally with an alumni representative. The key is to schedule well in advance through the college’s admissions office, as interview slots can fill up quickly. It is always best for a student to check the specific admissions requirements on the college’s website.

Preparation is key to a successful interview. While you can’t “pass or fail” it, being prepared shows you are serious about the opportunity.

Be Your Own Best Advocate: Your application documents—your transcript, test scores, and essays—provide a solid foundation, but the interview allows you to add depth and personality. It’s your chance to speak confidently about your interests, passions, and why you believe you’re a good fit for their community. This is also a perfect time to address any potential concerns on your application, such as a dip in grades during a particularly challenging time. For example, if your academic work took a downturn during your sophomore year due to a personal family situation, the interview is a safe space to discuss it with a sympathetic admission counselor. Explaining why you persisted in a challenging course, like Calculus, despite not being a “math person,” can also highlight your resilience and determination.

Ask & Answer

Asking Insightful Questions: A great interview is a dialogue, not a monologue. Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your genuine interest in the college and shows you’ve done your homework. Go beyond what you can find on the website or in a catalog. Ask specific questions that reflect your research, such as: “What opportunities are there for independent study or research within the political science major?” or “What is campus life like on the weekends?” If you’re interviewing with an alumnus, you can even flip the script and ask them about their personal experience.

Anticipating Interviewer Questions: While you should avoid sounding rehearsed, it’s smart to think about how you’d answer common questions. Interviewers are looking to understand you as a person. They might ask about your high school experience, personal interests, or even a book you’ve read recently. Be prepared to discuss your interest in their college, what you hope to achieve from your college experience, and how you envision contributing to their campus community.

The Finer Details: Making a Lasting Impression

From the moment you arrive (or log on), your conduct matters.

• Dress the Part: Choose neat, clean, and appropriate clothing. Avoid T-shirts, casual wear, or clothes from a rival college.
• Be Punctual: Arrive on time for in-person interviews, and for virtual interviews, log on a few minutes early to ensure your technology is working.
• Virtual Interview Etiquette: If your interview is online, make sure you’re in a quiet, well-lit space. Look directly at your webcam to maintain “eye contact,” and ensure your username is professional.
• Mind Your Manners: Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake (if in person) and introduce yourself. Be polite to everyone you encounter. Make eye contact, avoid fidgeting, and give full, thoughtful answers rather than one-word responses.
• Follow Up: Within a day or two of the interview, send a thank-you note or email. This is a crucial step that shows your appreciation and reinforces your interest. In your note, mention a specific point you discussed to show you were listening and engaged.

The college interview is a unique chance to let your personality shine. By preparing thoughtfully and being your authentic self, you can turn a nerve-wracking meeting into a positive experience that may strengthen your application and help you learn whether a college is truly the right fit for you.