5 Common College Interview Questions: 2024 Edition

When you're ready to go to college, some institutions may require an interview as part of the admissions process. Knowing what types of college interview questions an admissions officer might ask can help you prepare. 

Learn how an interview benefits you and the college you attend, and discover different types and styles of interview questions. Then, explore five potential college interview questions, ideas on responding, and interview prep tips. 

What is the goal of a college admission interview?

A college or university uses an admission interview to learn about you as a potential learner. An interview can help an admissions officer determine you'll be a good fit at the school. It can also help you decide if the school is the right fit for you. 

How does an interview benefit you as a student?

A college interview allows you to provide information you didn't have space for on your application. In an interview, you can expand on or give context to any or all of your application answers. An interview also allows you to tell an admissions officer in person how much it would mean for you to attend their school. 

How does an interview benefit the institution?

An interview allows college admissions officers to differentiate between you and other potential students. It helps them get to know you as a person beyond the facts you've listed in your application. This one-on-one interaction helps school personnel ascertain your chances for success at their institution.

Types of college interviews

Chances are you'll experience one of two types of college interviews: evaluative or informational. Call the admissions office and find out what type of interview the school offers if not listed on the school's website or in your admissions packet. 

Depending on the size of a college or university, your interview might take place on campus with an admissions officer or current student—typically a senior. Alternatively, it might occur somewhere off campus with a member of the school's alums. 

Evaluative college interview

Most college admissions officers conduct an evaluative interview. This type of interview helps determine if you will fit in well at the institution. The interviewer asks questions and usually takes notes to make a proper evaluation. The evaluation then helps an admissions committee decide on admittance, and it becomes part of your file. 

Informational college interview

When participating in an informational interview, you might meet one-on-one with an admissions officer, alumni member, or current student. You might also participate as part of a group of prospective students. 

This interview helps you learn about the institution, and the interviewer encourages questions. The interviewer may also assess your fitness for the school in a one-on-one interview. 

5 potential college interview questions and sample responses

Influential figures, past and present, have stressed the importance of preparation in many aspects of life. To get ready for your college interview, prepare to answer these common questions. Note how each answer offers specific and personal details and defines character.

1. Why do you want to attend (name of the college or university)? 

What they're really asking: Why would you make a good addition to our school?

I want to attend (name of college or university) because I'm interested in pursuing political science as a major. My uncle, Steve Harrison, got his bachelor's in political science here, and he told me that the program offers a wide range of interesting classes and the professors have a caring, hands-on approach to education.

Other forms the question might take: 

• How can you contribute to (name of college or university)? 

• What made you apply to (name of college or university)?

2. Can you tell me about a person who has influenced your life? 

What they're really asking: Are you able to tell me about someone you admire in a natural and meaningful way?

More than any other person, my mother has had the most influence on me to this point. She developed rheumatoid arthritis before I was born, and she has dealt with her many challenges with strength, courage, and grace. When my life gets challenging, I try to follow her example.

Other forms the question might take: 

• Tell me about someone you admire. 

• Who has been your greatest influence?

3. If you could change your academic history in one way, what would it be? 

What they're really asking: Can you answer an uncomfortable question in an honest and sincere way?

If I could change one thing about my academic past, I would have taken more writing courses in high school. I've really come to appreciate the importance of good writing skills for school and work, so I've picked out several writing courses I plan to take while I'm here. 

Other forms the question might take: 

• If you could, would you make any changes to your education so far? 

• Tell me a little bit about your high school experience.

4. Is there anything else you'd like for me to know about you? 

What they're really asking: What last impression would you like to leave us with? 

Yes. Thank you for asking. I think I have a lot to contribute to (name of college or university). I grew up on an organic farm, and my parents supplied produce to several nearby restaurants. I've learned the value of hard work and a healthy lifestyle, and I think I'll be a positive influence on my roommate and classmates at (name of college or university). 

Other forms the question might take: 

• Do you have anything else you'd like to add? 

• Tell me one more thing you'd like for me to know about you. 

5. Do you have any questions for me? 

What they're really asking: How much do you really care about attending this school? 

I'll be traveling across the country to attend school here, so I'll be far away from friends and family. Can you tell me how (name of college or university) encourages a healthy social life for students and fosters a sense of belonging?  

Other forms the question might take: 

• What else can I tell you about (name of college or university)? 

• Have I answered all of your questions?

Additional questions an interviewer might ask

Consider preparing for additional college interview questions to feel extra confident in your admissions interview. Other questions an interviewer might ask include:

• What strengths can you bring to (name of the college or university)?

• What do you like to do in your spare time?

• What are two of your favorite books?

• Can you describe one of your most important achievements?

• Why have you decided to major in (subject)?  

• Can you describe an obstacle you've overcome and how you did it?

Importance of a personal and thoughtful answer

Rather than saying what you think an interviewer wants to hear, make sure to answer your college interview questions personally and thoughtfully. Interviewers can typically see through insincere answers, and being authentic and honest shows the interviewer that you're taking the process seriously. Keep from sounding rehearsed by thoroughly researching your answers to potential questions and knowing what you want to say, but don't memorize. You can practice answering common questions with a friend or relative to boost your comfort level. 

College interview preparation: More strategies for success

A few additional strategies can help ensure success during a college interview. Consider following these tips as you prepare for your interview:

• Dress as if you were interviewing for an important job. 

• Map out your interview location in advance.

• Arrive at least 10 minutes early.

• Remember your manners: Shake hands, be respectful, make eye contact, and smile. 

• Thank your interviewer and follow up with a written card, note, or email.

Learn more about applying to college. 

Knowing more about the college interview process and the different types of interviews might help you get into your desired school. Exploring examples of interview questions can help you understand what admissions officers look for in potential students.  

For valuable information on the entire college application process, consider taking the course Applying to US Universities offered by the University of Pennsylvania on Coursera. You'll have the opportunity to learn how to make an effective school search, see if you're a good fit for a college or university, and use self-assessment to strengthen your application. You'll also discover how to navigate the different sections of a college application, and you'll learn about the selection process directly from real admissions officers.