College Interview FAQs

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The Basics for Your Child

Here are some frequently asked questions (and answers) about the college interview process.

What is an interview?

An interview is a chance for your child to show that she is more than just test scores and grades. It's an exchange of information—your child learns about the college and the college learns about your child. It can last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.

Does my child have to?

Most colleges don't require an interview; however, there are many benefits to meeting face-to-face with an admissions officer. For example, perhaps your child:

Feels her college application can't possibly convey her warm and shining personality.
Is interested in the college, but wants to learn more about its study abroad opportunities, science program, or whatever else interests her.
Wants to explain why her grades slipped.

How important is it, in the big picture?

The interview is one of many factors in the admissions decision. Admissions directors usually say that the interview is rarely the deciding one. Still, if a borderline student turns out to be impressive, the interviewer has the authority to write a letter in support. - The interview is your child's chance to be her own advocate.

What if my child bombs?

It's not the third degree and there's no pass or fail. Unless your child shows up in a T-shirt and cut-offs and spews profanities, chances are the interview is not going to make or break her. As long as your child has prepared and practiced, she will probably make a good impression.

What will the admissions staff learn about my child?

The staff learns about your child from a slew of papers: her transcript, test scores, and application. While your child's essay and recommendations can offer an impression of whom she is, words on paper can reveal only so much. The interview is your child's chance to be her own advocate by talking positively about her interests and enthusiasms, to show her personality, and to boost her chance of admission.

Should my child explain problems in the transcript?

This is a good time for your child to explain a hitch in her transcript or discuss any personal circumstances that affected her studies. Problems that your child may find difficult to write about in the application are often easier to discuss with a sympathetic admissions counselor. For example, perhaps:

Your child may not be the best math student, but it never stopped her from taking AP® calculus—your child can tell the interviewer why she persisted despite such difficulties.
During your child's sophomore year, you and your spouse divorced, and your child's academic work took a downward turn.
Your child has a learning disability and needs to make extra effort with every assignment.

What will my child learn about the college?

Is your child sure this is the college for her? The interview can help your child discover characteristics that colleges can't convey in a catalog. If an interviewer asks, "Why did you choose Florida University?" your child can ask in return, "What do you think draws students here?"

What should my child ask the admissions officer?

Asking questions shows that your child is interested in the college and what the admissions officer has to say. Your child should always have a question in mind about the college or her major field to show that she has a deep interest in attending the school. Your child can also ask a general question, such as, "Do you have any advice for me?"