As the summer comes to a close, the college application process for the upcoming academic year is in full swing. Students must prepare their high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, extracurricular activities, personal statements, recommendation letters, and interviews — the six main components of a college application. Among these, the interview plays a critical role in helping schools stand out from a sea of similar application documents. It allows the institution to assess whether a student is a good fit for the school. For international students, the interview is also a key moment to evaluate their English proficiency.

Many Taiwanese students feel intimidated by college interviews, mistakenly believing that interviewers will present difficult, tricky questions designed to trip them up. Others think that the subjective nature of the interview means that their academic achievements and other qualifications are sufficient to secure acceptance. Some parents even argue that since interviews don't account for a large portion of the application score, there's no need to invest too much time or effort in preparation. However, no one can be certain of the specific requirements or weight given to interviews by each school. Therefore, we recommend that students take advantage of the opportunity to interview when it arises, as it can be a key factor in distinguishing them from other applicants with similar grades and qualifications.
 

Common Types of Interview Invitations 

■ School-Specific Invitations

After reviewing applications, admissions committees send interview invitations to students they are particularly interested in. These interviews tend to be more in-depth, as the school has already reviewed the applicant's materials and may seek clarification or further insight into specific details.

■ Open Invitations for All Applicants

Less common, but some schools invite every applicant to interview. If you're eager to attend a specific school, we recommend seizing this opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm for the institution. 

■ No Invitation for Interviews

As the number of applicants continues to rise globally, some schools have begun canceling interviews altogether. 

■ Mandatory Interviews for All Applicants

Some institutions require interviews for all applicants. In such cases, the interview is often a significant factor in the overall application evaluation. 
 

Admissions policies can change from year to year, so it's important to verify the latest information to determine whether an interview is required.

 

Purpose and Focus of U.S. College Interviews

U.S. college interviews generally assess a student's language skills and adaptability. The interview allows schools to learn more about a student's academic interests and career goals. Therefore, it is essential to review all application materials, such as your resume, recommendation letters, and essays, before the interview. Being able to express your passion for your chosen field of study, explain why you're excited about the school, and articulate why it is your top choice are critical factors for success in the interview.

In addition to self-presentation, researching the school and its programs is also vital preparation. The college application process is lengthy because schools aim to not only select outstanding students but also find individuals who will thrive in their unique environment.

 

Types of College Interviews

■ On-Campus In-Person Interviews

These are typically conducted by admissions officers, distinguished alumni, professors, or teaching assistants, and take place at the school. 

■ Remote Interviews

For students who live far from the campus, some schools offer remote interviews via phone or video call. These can take several forms: 

- Representative Interview: A specific professor within the department interviews the applicant.

- Panel Interview: Multiple professors interview the applicant, each asking different questions. 

- Boss Interview: Often used for graduate school applications, where the applicant meets their future supervisor to discuss academic and research interests. 

- Conference Interview: A controlled format designed to prevent cheating, where the interview is conducted via webcam.

■ Off-Site Interviews

Some U.S. colleges visit major cities in Asia for interviews. This can be convenient for Taiwanese students who wish to avoid traveling to the U.S. for their interview. However, keep in mind that interviewers may conduct multiple interviews each day, making it challenging to distinguish between candidates.
 

Interview Duration

• Remote interviews typically last about 30 minutes.
• In-person interviews generally last between 45 minutes and one hour.
   

Documents to Bring to the Interview

Before the interview, visit the school's website to understand its academic environment, campus culture, and course offerings. Prepare several responses to potential questions so you can be flexible during the interview. If the school reaches out to you directly, politely inquire about any documents you should bring. Even if they indicate that no documents are required, it's always a good idea to bring a few copies of your resume, extracurricular activities, awards, and other relevant materials.

 

Interview Pitfalls to Avoid: 

• Arriving late
• Giving overly brief answers
• Relying on notes or a script
• Lacking familiarity with the school
• Pretending to know things you don't
• Mentioning interest in other schools

Avoid these mistakes to ensure you come across as prepared and respectful.
 

Common Interview Questions

■ "Tell us about yourself."

Provide a concise and impactful introduction, highlighting your academic background, personal qualities, and interests. Think about how you can leave a lasting impression in a short amount of time.

■ "Why do you want to apply to this school?"                                                                                                                      

This is your chance to show your enthusiasm for the school and demonstrate that you've done your research. Share why you believe you're a perfect fit and what you can contribute to the campus community.

■ "Do you have any questions for me?"

Avoid asking questions that can easily be answered through a quick search online. Thoughtful, well-researched questions show that you've seriously considered the school and that you're using the interview time wisely. 

 

As an international student, don't be overly concerned about language barriers. Being able to communicate in multiple languages is a valuable skill, demonstrating your ability to adapt to new environments, your independence, and your strong language abilities. Additionally, you may have unique experiences to share that set you apart from other applicants. Ultimately, no matter the type of interview, confidence is key. Show your maturity, self-assurance, and readiness to succeed at a U.S. college!

 

閱讀中文版文章：美國大學面試介紹，讓你在申請者中脫穎而出

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