Clair Blog · Admissions ·
The Interview Before the Application
Think you apply to college first and interview later? Not always.
At some colleges, the interview can happen before you even submit your application.
Schools such as Harvey Mudd, Claremont McKenna, and Trinity College encourage prospective students to take advantage of interviews or conversations with admissions representatives as part of the application process.
Why does this matter?
An early conversation can give students a chance to put a face and personality behind the application. It can also help admissions officers learn more about a student’s interests, goals, and fit with the college.
And it works both ways.
An interview isn’t just an opportunity for a college to evaluate you. It’s also your chance to learn about the school -- its academic environment, campus culture, and whether it feels like the right place for you. The important lesson: Don’t wait until you submit your application to learn how a college handles interviews.
If a school encourages interviews, find out:
When interviews become available
Whether they must be completed before you apply
Whether interviews are required, recommended, or optional
How to sign up
What deadlines apply
A college’s interview process may begin earlier than you think.
Do your research early because sometimes, the conversation starts before the application does.