I'm thinking about applying to American University and was wondering if they conduct interviews as part of the admissions process. Does anyone know if it's required or recommended to do one?
American University does not traditionally conduct interviews as a formal part of the undergraduate admissions process. Instead, they primarily base their decision on your application, essays, letters of recommendation, and academic records. Students can add an interview as part of the campus visit experience. Interviews at AU are informational in nature and will last roughly 30 minutes, so they can easily be added before or after your scheduled visit time.
If you're interested in further connecting with the school, they offer virtual and in-person events for prospective students. You could consider attending an information session or open house to learn more about the university and its programs, which also provides an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. This shows your interest and allows you to engage with the admissions staff, but keep in mind that these events are not typically evaluated in the admissions process.
Remember to put your energy into making your application as strong as possible. The essays and shorter answer sections are great spaces to illustrate your fit and interest in the university.
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