College Interviews: The Basics
Are college interviews important? In many cases, the answer is “yes.” The college interview is a part of the college application process at many colleges─but not at all of them. You may meet in person to talk with someone from the admissions office, a current student, or an alum of the college. Or you may be able to take part in a video interview.
The interview is rarely the deciding factor in whether the college will accept you, but it can give a representative from the college a chance to get to know you better. And the interview gives you a chance to:
- Show your interest in the college.
- Share information about yourself beyond what's listed on your transcript or in your application.
- Bring up anything in your record that you'd like to explain, like a temporary drop in your grades.
- Discuss your goals and the reasons you want to attend that college.
- Ask questions about the college.
What to Do Before an Interview
Being prepared will help you stay calm and confident. It's also important to be honest about who you are and what you've done. You'll be more convincing and appealing if you stick to what's real.
- Make an interview appointment with one of the colleges you want to attend.
- Mark the date and time on your calendar.
- Research the college by checking out its website, brochure, and course catalog.
- Make notes about why you want to attend this college.
- Make notes about your academic background and high school experiences.
- Make notes about your life outside the classroom, including activities, community service, and hobbies.
- Get familiar with common interview questions. Do practice interviews with a friend or family member. Take turns being the interviewee and the interviewer.
- Prepare questions about the school to ask the interviewer.
- Get directions to the interview.
- Choose appropriate clothes to wear for the interview.
- Gather documents you might need, such as test scores and a high school transcript.
What to Do at and After an Interview
- Dress nicely and professionally to leave a good impression.
- Arrive early. Be prepared with everything you need for the interview, including a way to take notes and a list of questions to ask.
- Be polite. Be positive and attentive throughout the interview.
- Avoid using slang or other inappropriate language during the interview. This can leave a negative impression.
- Display confidence but not arrogance.
- When you’re responding to questions, answer honestly. Ask for clarification if you’re unsure what the interviewer is asking.
- Send a thank-you note to your interviewer after the interview.