College Interview Tips: What to Say, Do, and Avoid

The college admissions interview can be intimidating but does not have to be. While not every school requires one, when you are given the chance to meet with an admissions officer or alumni interviewer, it is an opportunity to show more than what is on your transcript and application. Today, many interviews happen virtually, often on Zoom, so preparation matters more than ever. Here’s how to get ready and leave a lasting impression.

1. Practice Makes Perfect

Don’t walk into your interview cold. Ask a parent, friend, or counselor to run through common questions with you: Tell me about yourself. Why this college? What do you do outside the classroom? You will sharpen your answers, learn to “humble brag” without sounding arrogant, and get comfortable naturally talking about yourself.

2. Be Yourself

Admissions officers want to know you, not a rehearsed version of you. Yes, polish your answers, but do not over-script them. Before the interview, reflect on a few personal qualities you want to highlight, like curiosity, leadership, resilience, or creativity. Then let those qualities come through in how you tell your stories. Relax, smile, and let your personality show.

3. Aim for a Conversation, Not an Interrogation

The best interviews flow. Instead of treating it like a series of rapid-fire questions, consider it a chance to connect. Share anecdotes, ask for the interviewer’s perspective, and build off their responses. When you can turn a Q&A session into a genuine dialogue, you’ll leave a stronger impression.

4. Do Your Homework

Research is your secret weapon. Dig into the school's academic programs, clubs, traditions, and values. Do not regurgitate statistics; they already know them. Instead, connect what you have learned to your own interests: “I’m excited about your Global Health program because I want to work on community health initiatives,” or “I noticed there’s a robotics club, and I’d love to contribute my experience from my high school team.” That shows you have done your homework and considered your place in their community. It also gives you an easy segue into your accomplishments.

5. Ask Smart Questions

An interview is not just about proving you belong; it is also about deciding whether the school fits you. Prepare thoughtful questions: “What makes this college’s student community unique?” or “What support exists for first-year students adjusting to campus life?” 

6. Thank Your Interviewer—Twice

Always thank your interviewer at the end of the conversation. But don’t stop there. Within 24 hours, send a thank-you email. Reference something specific from the conversation to show you were engaged: “I appreciated hearing your story about studying abroad in Spain—it made me even more excited about the opportunities at this college.” That small gesture sets you apart from applicants who skip this step.

7. Tips for Connecting Over Zoom

If your interview is virtual, you’re setting and presence matter:

• Test your tech: Ensure Zoom is updated, your camera and mic work, and your internet connection is stable.

• Set the stage: Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background. Good lighting helps your interviewer see you clearly and makes you appear more professional.

• Look at the camera: Eye contact is harder virtually, but glancing at the camera instead of the screen when you speak helps you appear engaged.

• Dress the part: Even though you’re at home, wear interview-appropriate attire.

• Minimize distractions: Silence your phone, close unnecessary browser tabs, and let others in your household know you’ll need quiet time.

  
  

Final Thought

A college interview is not about perfection; it is about connection. Whether in person or on Zoom, preparation, authenticity, and curiosity can transform a nerve-wracking half hour into a meaningful conversation that strengthens your application. Essential College Coaches have been successfully preparing our applicants for high-stakes interviews for over 15 years. We can help you turn your interview into an admissions advantage!