Do colleges still conduct admissions interviews?

I'm wondering if most colleges still offer admissions interviews as part of the application process. Are these interviews optional or required for some schools, and how common are they nowadays?

Yes, many colleges and universities still offer admissions interviews as a part of their application process. However, the format and significance of these interviews can vary greatly from school to school.

While some colleges might consider interviews a crucial component of their admissions process, others might view them as only a supplementary or optional part of the applicant's profile. Some highly selective schools, for example, offer interviews to as many applicants as possible, given the availability of alumni interviewers. At these schools, the interview can serve as a way to gather more information about an applicant's interests, strengths, and fit for the school culture.

Other schools, like Vanderbilt and Johns Hopkins, do not offer interviews, so interviews are certainly not a universal practice. Also keep in mind that for most colleges and universities, interviews are optional and are typically assigned on a first-come, first-served basis or depending on regional availability.

In terms of importance, it is generally understood that interviews, when offered, lend themselves more as an opportunity for applicants to learn about the college and express their interest, rather than serving as a significant factor in determining admission.

In general, if you are offered an interview, it can be a great chance to further demonstrate your interest in a college and provide a bit more context about your experiences, aspirations, and what you might bring to the college community. This means that even if an interview is optional, it may be beneficial to participate if given the opportunity.

Remember though to check the specific policies on interviews for each of the colleges to which you're applying. Finding out how they organize, use, and value interviews will inform you on how best to approach this aspect of the application process at each specific institution.