Interviews
Walk in confident. Walk out memorable.
Most students dread college interviews. With the right preparation, they become your advantage. Practice here until you feel ready.
Which colleges use interviews?
- Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and most Ivies use alumni interviews.
- Georgetown conducts evaluative interviews on campus.
- MIT offers optional but strongly recommended interviews.
- Many liberal arts colleges (Wesleyan, Bowdoin, Colby) offer informational interviews.
- Large public universities generally do not interview, with exceptions for honors programs.
Always check your specific school's admissions page. Interview availability can vary by location and year.
Types of interviews
Alumni interview
Conducted by a graduate in your area. Usually conversational and informational. Most common type.
Admissions officer interview
Conducted by a staff member. More evaluative. Common at smaller colleges and Georgetown.
Group interview
You and several other applicants discuss a topic. Tests collaboration and listening skills.
Portfolio/creative review
For art, architecture, or design programs. You present and discuss your work.
10 common questions with guidance
1. “Tell me about yourself.”
Do not recite your resume. Share 2-3 things that define who you are outside of grades. Be genuine and specific.
2. “Why are you interested in this college?”
Show that you have done your research. Name specific programs, professors, traditions, or values that resonate with you personally.
3. “What is your biggest strength?”
Pick one strength and illustrate it with a brief, specific story. Do not list multiple qualities.
4. “What is your biggest weakness or challenge?”
Be honest but show growth. Describe a real challenge and what you learned or how you are working on it.
5. “Tell me about an extracurricular activity that matters to you.”
Go deep, not wide. Explain why this activity matters, what you contribute, and how it has shaped you.
6. “What would you contribute to our campus community?”
Think beyond your resume. What perspective, energy, or initiative would you bring?
7. “What do you do for fun?”
Be yourself. Genuine answers are memorable. Whether it is cooking, hiking, or building Lego sets — own it.
8. “Who has influenced you the most?”
Choose someone specific and explain how they changed how you think, not just what they taught you.
9. “Is there anything else you would like us to know?”
Use this to share something not in your application, or to reinforce your central narrative.
10. “Do you have any questions for me?”
Always have 2-3 questions ready. Ask about the interviewer's experience, campus culture, or something specific to the school.
Questions to ask your interviewer
Having thoughtful questions shows genuine interest. Here are some strong options:
- “What was your favourite thing about your time at [college]?”
- “How would you describe the academic culture — collaborative or competitive?”
- “What surprised you most about the school?”
- “How did your experience there shape your career?”
- “Is there anything you wish you had known before you started?”
How to prepare
- Research the school deeply. Read the website, attend virtual events, talk to current students if possible.
- Practice out loud. Thinking about answers is not the same as saying them. Practice with a family member or use our AI mock interview below.
- Prepare 3-4 stories. Stories about challenges, growth, passions, and impact. You can adapt them to fit most questions.
- Be conversational, not rehearsed. Know your key points but do not memorize scripts.
- Dress one step above casual. Business casual is the sweet spot. No need for a suit.
Virtual vs in-person
Virtual
- Test your camera, mic, and internet beforehand
- Use a clean, well-lit background
- Look at the camera, not the screen, when speaking
- Close all other tabs and notifications
- Have a glass of water nearby
In-person
- Arrive 5-10 minutes early
- Bring a copy of your resume or activity list (optional but helpful)
- Firm handshake, eye contact, genuine smile
- Usually held at a coffee shop or on campus
- Offer to buy the interviewer's coffee (polite gesture)
Follow up
Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Keep it brief, sincere, and specific — reference something you discussed. This is not a formality; it leaves a lasting impression.
Sample structure
- 1. Thank them for their time
- 2. Reference a specific moment from the conversation
- 3. Reaffirm your interest in the college
- 4. Wish them well — keep it warm and human
AI mock interview
Practice your answers
Select a question, type your answer as if you were speaking to an interviewer, and get instant feedback.