How much does a college interview actually help in admissions?

I'm getting ready for some college interviews and I can't help but wonder how much they actually matter. Does performing well in an interview significantly enhance my application, or is it just a minor part of the holistic review?

College interviews typically are not a significant part of the admissions process compared to other factors such as your academic performance, essays, and extracurricular achievements. However, they can still play a role in the decision-making process. Generally, they are considered as part of the holistic review of your application.

A successful interview can potentially tip the scales in your favor in a competitive admissions process, especially in instances where the admissions officers are deciding between several equally qualified applicants. That being said, interviews are usually considered a minor part of the college application. They can be most significant at small, selective colleges where every aspect of an applicant could be under closer scrutiny.

When conducting college interviews, many institutions aim to assess your fit for the campus community, your level of interest in the school, and any unique aspects of your personality or story that might not have come through in the written parts of your application. Thus, it's a good idea to prepare and do the best you can, but keep in mind that it is just one part of a larger picture.

In conclusion, while a college interview rarely makes or breaks an application, it's still a valuable opportunity to further demonstrate your interest and make a positive impression.