The college admissions process is a challenging time for many students. From unfamiliar terms, confusing acronyms, and tests to making sure your application stands out to a college or university’s admissions team, it can all feel a bit overwhelming and daunting.

Yet, it’s also an exciting time for students as they prepare for newfound freedom, make new friends and connections, and pursue personal and professional interests and goals independently.

One of the best ways to showcase yourself and your goals is through the college admissions interview. This interview is an excellent opportunity to learn more about your chosen school and allows them to get to know you. It also should not be an overly stressful or anxiety-producing experience.

Let’s take a deeper look at the admissions interview so that students can feel confident throughout the interview and college planning process.

What is a College Admissions Interview?

The college admissions interview is part of the application process at most colleges and universities, where students meet in person or virtually to talk with someone from the admissions office or college representative team.

The interview can, at times, be the deciding factor as to whether a college accepts the student, but it’s also the time for students to determine if the school and program are a good fit for them.

College admissions interviews go both ways, and students should know it’s their time to:

• Show interest in the college or university.
• Share information about themselves that is not on their transcript or in their application.
• Discuss their goals and reasons for attending college or a specific degree program.
• Ask questions about the school, program, and faculty.
• Address anything they’d like to explain in their record, like a temporary drop in grades.

Are Admission Interviews Stressful?

Interviews, like any part of the admissions process, can be stressful, especially if you don’t prepare or aren’t familiar with the application process, but it doesn’t have to be.

Students can also be assured that college admissions offices are not looking for the “right” answers to the questions, “What makes you unique?”, “What are your study habits?” and “Tell me about yourself?” Rather, colleges want a complete picture of the student, their skills, and their personality to determine if they are a good fit for the school and degree program.

How Important are Admissions Interviews?

While students shouldn’t be overly stressed about the admissions interview process, they also shouldn’t blow them off completely.

The interview may be your one opportunity to talk with someone who represents the school and share the things that matter to you personally and academically. Plus, it may be the only time you can ask questions about the school and what life is like on campus.

Interviews are considered along with your entire college application, so don’t write it off as unimportant.

How to Prepare for An Admissions Interview

Remember, admissions interviews are often the last step of the admissions process, so you will want to put your best foot forward and make a good impression.

Don’t forget to schedule and mark the interview date, time, and location on your calendar and show up early so that you are not stressed about arriving on time or, worse, late. Make notes about your interest in the school, your academic and personal background, and why you are a good fit for the school and degree program.

Lastly, dress appropriately and in a way that presents you as poised, confident, and professional. Be aware of any ill-fitting clothes or nervous body motions that would detract from your overall appearance.

Check out our handy Undergraduate Admissions Checklist to make sure you’re on the right track toward becoming a Purple Knight!

College Admissions Interview Tips

Whether you are a student or a parent helping a student prepare for college admissions, there are a number of things you can do to set yourself up for success.

Tips for the college admissions interview include:

• Pre-plan memorable answers: Students should identify a few achievements, designations, or interests that will help them stand out from other applicants, such as their specific connection to their chosen field of study. Give clear, detailed answers rather than general statements.
• Research and bring specific questions: College admissions interviewers will likely expect students to ask their own questions about the school. Research beforehand and re-read all the materials before your interview so they are top of mind.
• Practice, practice, practice: Students can also prepare by practicing common interview questions with a parent or friend. Ask them for feedback on how you are showcasing yourself and where you can improve your answers.
• Be yourself: It may sound cliche, but this interview is about finding the best school for you and what you can offer each other. Allow your attire and answers to reveal the professional, mature, and truthful version of you.

How to Answer Common Admissions Interview Questions

In addition to being honest and truthful in your answers, the most surefire way to answer common admissions interview questions is by preparing yourself and your answers beforehand.

1. Why Do You Want to Attend This University?

This is one of the most common questions in almost every interview, as it tests a student’s knowledge of the university and allows the interviewers to learn what motivates a specific candidate.

Consider why you and the university are a perfect match with detailed and specific talking points such as a program’s teaching philosophy or a school’s support services.

2. How Would Your Friends or Teachers Describe You?

This is another way for interviewers to learn more about a student in a more personal way. Use this question to talk about your personality and strengths that will help you stand out by highlighting traits like determination, ability to lead, or willingness to work as part of a team. Consider giving specific examples of when you showcased these qualities as well.

3. What Achievement Are You Most Proud Of?

While students do not want to come off as arrogant or too boastful, a college admissions interview is not the time to make light of your personal or professional accomplishments and achievements.

Talk about a recent accomplishment that is fresh and relevant to your academic journey. Additionally, expressing a particular achievement will give the interviewer a good sense of your abilities to manage your time and interests and commitment to your larger goals.

4. Do You Have Any Questions?

It’s now time for you to take on the role and challenge of the interviewer by asking your own questions. This is the time for students to gather meaningful information about the college, further demonstrate their interest in the school, and continue to reveal their personality.

Stand out from other applicants by asking the following questions:

• What is unique about your school’s curriculum?
• Are classes taught mostly by professors or teaching assistants (TAs)?
• How does your college help students secure employment?
• Are there any research opportunities available to students?
• How would you describe the majority of students at your school?
• What made you want to work for this college?

The college admissions interview is vital to the overall admissions and application process, so students should take it seriously. However, with enough preparation and practice, there is no doubt that you can impress interviewers and attend the school of your choice.

Learn about University of Bridgeport and our over eighty degree programs that prepare students for a successful academic and professional career by contacting us today. We can’t wait to share about our uplifting and supportive culture!