🎤 1️⃣ College Interviews 101: What to Expect + What They’re Really For

Not all colleges offer interviews—and not all applicants will get one. Some schools don’t conduct them at all. Others make them optional or only offer them to a subset of applicants after applying.

👉 A few smaller colleges may allow you to request one in advance during a visit or virtual session—but this is the exception, not the rule.

If you’re offered an interview, take it. It’s not a quiz—it’s a chance to bring your application to life and connect as a person.

🔍 What’s the Point of the Interview?

It’s not just about assessing your personality—it’s also a way for the college to gauge how well you’d fit in and how seriously you're considering them.

Interviewers want to know:

Are you thoughtful, curious, and clear in how you communicate?
Do you understand what this school offers—and why it fits your goals?
Would you be someone they (or a future roommate) would want to talk to again?

🧭 Two Types of Interviews

1️⃣ Evaluative – A summary is written and included in your admissions file

2️⃣ Informational – Designed for you to learn about the school, but still a chance to impress

💡 Tip: You won’t always know which type it is. Treat every interview as evaluative.

👥 Who Interviews You?

Alumni (most common)
Admissions officers (especially at smaller colleges)
Occasionally a current student

📍Format: Zoom, phone, or in-person—depends on your location and the school’s setup

⏰ When Do Interviews Happen?

Usually after you apply
Occasionally before, if a school allows you to request one
Often scheduled via email from an alumni or admissions rep

📬 Keep an eye on your inbox (and check spam folders)—you may only get one invitation, and schools won’t chase you down.

❗What If You’re Not Offered an Interview?

Totally normal—and not a red flag.

Some colleges don’t have the capacity to interview every applicant. You’re not at a disadvantage if it’s not offered.

Next up: How to Prepare & What to Expect

We’ll go over questions they might ask, how to answer them well, and what makes a great impression—without sounding rehearsed. 🤍

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