The college interview is an important part of the admissions process. It’s an opportunity to showcase your personality, demonstrate your interest in a school, and let admissions officers see beyond your grades and test scores.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to best prepare for a college interview, common questions you may encounter, when these interviews typically take place, and where they are usually conducted.
When Do College Interviews Happen?
College interviews usually take place during the early winter of your senior year. Some schools may offer interviews earlier, as early as the summer after your junior year, while others may wait until after you submit your application. Timing varies from college to college, so it’s crucial to check the interview policies of each school you're applying to.
If an interview is offered as part of the application process, you should aim to schedule it as early as possible. This shows that you are proactive and genuinely interested in the school. For highly competitive colleges, scheduling your interview earlier can help ensure that you’re one of the first applicants to meet with an admissions officer, which may give you a slight edge.
Where Do College Interviews Take Place?
College interviews can take place in several locations:
- On-campus interviews: Some schools offer interviews on their campuses. These interviews are often conducted by an admissions officer or a current student and may involve a campus tour before or after the interview. An on-campus interview is a great opportunity to get a feel for the school’s environment and culture.
- Alumni interviews: Many schools have alumni volunteers who conduct interviews in locations across the country (or even internationally). These interviews typically take place in casual settings like coffee shops, local libraries, or other public spaces. Alumni interviews are often less formal than on-campus ones but still provide an important opportunity to demonstrate your fit for the school.
- Virtual interviews: Given the rise of remote learning and communication, many colleges now offer virtual interviews via Zoom, Skype, or other video platforms. Virtual interviews can be a convenient option, especially if you’re applying to schools that are far from home or if in-person interviews are difficult to schedule.
How to Prepare for a College Interview
Preparation is key to making a positive impression during your college interview. Here are some ways you can set yourself up for success:
1. Research the College
The first step to preparing for your college interview is to do thorough research on the school. Admissions officers want to know why you’re interested in their institution, and being able to articulate specific reasons can make you stand out. Here are some things to focus on:
- Academic programs: Know what majors or academic programs the school is known for and be prepared to explain why they’re a good fit for your academic goals.
- Campus culture: Understand the school’s culture and values. Are you drawn to its vibrant student life, commitment to sustainability, or emphasis on research? Knowing these details will show that you’ve taken the time to learn about the school.
- Extracurricular activities: Be aware of clubs, sports, and other opportunities that interest you. Mentioning specific activities you’d like to participate in can show that you’re eager to be involved.
2. Practice Answering Common Interview Questions
While it’s impossible to predict every question you’ll be asked, there are several common ones that you can prepare for. Practice your responses to these questions to help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview:
- Tell me about yourself: This is often the first question in an interview, and it’s your opportunity to introduce yourself. Focus on aspects that are relevant to the college and what you’re looking for in your college experience. Start with a brief overview of your background, then highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal interests.
- Why do you want to attend this college? This is where your research comes in handy. Be specific about why you’re interested in this particular school—mention programs, professors, or opportunities that align with your academic and career goals.
- What are your strengths and weaknesses? This question tests your self-awareness. When discussing strengths, choose one that is relevant to your college work, such as perseverance, curiosity, or leadership.
- Tell me about a challenge you’ve faced and how you handled it: Colleges want to see how you approach adversity and problem-solving. Choose an example from your life where you faced a challenge and demonstrate how you overcame it with resilience or creativity.
- Where do you see yourself in five years? This question is designed to assess your long-term goals. Mention any academic or career aspirations you have and how the college will help you achieve them.
3. Prepare Your Own Questions
A good interview is a two-way conversation. Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the school, the programs, or campus life. Asking questions demonstrates that you are genuinely interested in the college and helps you assess whether it’s the right fit for you. Some examples include:
- What makes students successful at this college?
- Can you tell me more about the research opportunities available to undergraduates?
- What is the campus community like outside of academics?
4. Dress Appropriately and Be On Time
Even if your interview is virtual, dress in a way that shows respect for the process. Business casual attire is typically appropriate. Also, make sure to be on time, whether the interview is in person or virtual. Being late can create a negative impression, while arriving early shows punctuality and enthusiasm.
5. Be Yourself
Lastly, remember that the interview is an opportunity to show who you are as a person. Admissions officers are looking for authentic students who are passionate about their education and who will contribute to the campus community. Be honest, be yourself, and let your personality shine through.
A college interview is an excellent opportunity to make a positive impression and show that you’re a good fit for a school. By preparing well, researching the college, practicing common questions, and approaching the interview with confidence, you can set yourself up for success.
Want more personalized advice on how best to prepare for a college interview? Contact CAPS today for more information on how we can help.
