How do college interviews work for undergraduate admissions?

For undergraduate admissions, interviews are usually one of three things: evaluative, informational, or not offered at all.

At many colleges, interviews are optional and conducted by alumni volunteers, admissions officers, or sometimes current students. At some schools they are unavailable because of application volume, and at others they are offered only by invitation.

If a college offers interviews, you may need to sign up through the application portal, request one separately, or wait to be contacted. Virtual interviews are now very common, though some schools still offer in-person options.

You’ll usually get questions like why you’re interested in that college, what you do outside class, what academic subjects interest you, what matters to you, and how you spend your time. You may also be asked about a challenge, a meaningful activity, or what you hope to study.

Most interviews are conversational, not a test. The interviewer writes a short report or evaluation that may be added to your application. At many colleges, the interview is a relatively small part of the process, but it can help add personality, clarify your interests, and show genuine engagement.

You should also expect time to ask your own questions. Thoughtful questions about programs, campus life, or opportunities in your interests tend to make a better impression than questions easily answered on the homepage.

If a school says the interview is optional, it is often still worth doing if you can present yourself comfortably and the logistics are reasonable. If no interview is offered, that is completely normal and usually does not hurt you.