Ace College Interviews with a Study Abroad Counselor
When it comes to college admissions, every interaction matters—including the college admissions interview. While very few colleges now offer them, interviews present a powerful opportunity for students to shine beyond the application, essays, and transcripts. They also offer a great tool for demonstrating interest in a particular college. But with so much confusion surrounding their role, it’s no surprise that students and families often feel uncertain about how (and whether) to prepare.
As an experienced study abroad counselor, I can confirm that students who approach interviews with preparation and confidence often leave a strong impression. Here’s what you need to know about college admissions interviews—and why students should take advantage of them early.
Check Your Emails and Book Early: Guidance from a Study Abroad Counselor
While some colleges may offer summer interviews to rising high school seniors, most will send an email with instructions a few days to weeks after an application is submitted. This message goes directly to the student—not the parent or guardian.
That’s why a study abroad counselor always reminds students: check your emails frequently after submitting applications. If a college offers you the option to schedule an interview, register immediately. Slots fill quickly, and waiting could mean losing your chance altogether.
Clearing Up the Myths with a Study Abroad Counselor’s Perspective
There’s a fair amount of misinformation about admissions interviews. Let’s address a few myths with clarity:
MYTH
If I don’t get offered an interview, I’m out of the running.
TRUTH
Many colleges that offer interviews don’t offer them to all applicants. It’s not a sign of your admissibility—it’s often about geography, staffing, or policy.
MYTH
The interview will make or break my application.
TRUTH
Interviews rarely make or break a decision. However, particularly in the rare cases when they are being held by a member of the admissions staff, they can tip the scales, especially in competitive pools where many students have similar academic credentials.
MYTH
Only Ivy League schools offer interviews.
TRUTH
A wide range of schools and programs offer interviews, from small liberal arts colleges to scholarships and public school honors programs
MYTH
All interviews are equal.
TRUTH
Especially in cases of alumni interviews, they often don’t count for much. For example, at the University of Pennsylvania, they are held with alumni and considered informational and non-evaluative. But at ICC, we still encourage a student to put their best foot forward, as these alumni are still submitting reviews to the admissions offices.
What’s the Point of the College Interview?
Admissions interviews serve important purposes:
- For the college: It’s a way to humanize the application, assess fit, and gauge interest.
- For the student: It’s a chance to share your story, ask thoughtful questions, and make a memorable impression.
Even if optional, a study abroad counselor recommends doing the interview. It demonstrates initiative, maturity, communication skills, and intellectual curiosity—all qualities admissions committees value.
Quality Over Quantity Always Wins
Don’t just list 15 things on your application. Colleges abroad prefer students who go deep in a few meaningful activities rather than dabble in many.
unlock your future - insider secrets to building a winning profile for top universities
Final Thoughts from Quest for Success – Your Trusted Study Abroad Counselor
College admissions interviews may not always be required, but they remain a valuable opportunity for students to stand out. At Quest for Success, our expert study abroad counselors provide personalized guidance to help students prepare with confidence.
With the right preparation, students can showcase their strengths, communicate effectively, and make a positive impression that strengthens their application to top global universities.
