Questions to Ask at the End of an Admissions Interview
Many colleges offer or require an admissions interview as part of the application process. However, students don’t always realize they should ask their own questions towards the end of the interview, too.
In addition to dressing professionally, it's helpful to gather a list of questions before you arrive. That way, you'll be prepared to take in the campus while being sharp for the interview.
In this article, we explain why you should ask your interviewer questions and then share a list of questions to get you started.
Why Ask Your College Interviewer Questions?
Asking questions at the end of a college admission or scholarship interview can help demonstrate your interest, clarify any doubts, and allow you to gain additional insight. Specifically, asking questions:
- Shows that you are interested: By asking questions, you can show you've been thinking critically about the process and are invested in that school or program. It can also help you stand out from other applicants who may not have asked questions.
- Clarifies doubts: You can use this opportunity to clarify any doubts you may have about the school, its programs, or admission requirements. This can help you decide whether the school is a good fit for you.
- Gives you additional information: With the prompting of a question, your interviewer may provide additional information that they wouldn't otherwise share. This can give you extra insight into the school and its culture.
Questions to Ask College Interviewers
Here's a list of easy questions you can use to get started. Read through them and see if you can come up with any others that are specific to the college you'll be visiting. Making your questions both personal and relevant to the college shows you're engaged and prepared.
What have students from this program accomplished after graduation?
This question has two purposes. First, it shows that you researched this college and are interested in a specific program. You don’t want to ask any questions that can easily be answered by looking on the college’s website. This question is a good way to discuss a program you're interested in without sounding unprepared. This question also indicates to admissions officers that you've imagined yourself as a student at this college.
Secondly, this question suggests that you are future-oriented and ambitious enough to think about your career beyond college. Open-ended and goal-oriented questions will demonstrate your curiosity and desire to work hard.
What advice would you give me as an incoming freshman?
This question allows your interviewer to expand upon their personal experiences. They might share some anecdotes of their own or some from other students, which will help you better understand campus life. This also allows you to establish a personal connection with your interviewer and communicate your desire to learn.
How easy is it for first-year students to take upper-level classes?
This question demonstrates that you're excited to learn, aren’t scared of a challenge, and consider the logistics of being a student at this school. Even better, list a few upper-level courses or professors in specific departments to show that you have already researched.
What are some of the best activities on campus?
Although your studies are important, engaging with the student body is also a fundamental aspect of life at a college or university. Schools are looking for well-rounded go-getters, so show your personality in your interview.
After Your College Interview
After your interview, you might want to create a spreadsheet to compare your notes from your interviews and campus visits. It also probably makes sense to review your list of schools to keep an eye on where you stand.
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