What's the interview process like for Stanford University undergraduate admission?

I'm curious about how interviews work for undergrad admission at Stanford University. Are they required for everyone, or just for certain applicants? What should I expect from the interview process, and how can I best prepare for it?

Stanford University offers optional alumni interviews to a selection of undergraduate applicants. So, not every applicant will be offered an interview and it's mainly based on the availability of volunteer alumni interviewers in your regional area.

The interviews are very informal conversations, where the interviewers try to get to know you better as a person beyond just your application. Expect questions about your academic interests, activities outside the classroom, reasons for applying to Stanford, and future goals. It’s not really a test, but rather an opportunity for you to add more dimensions to your application.

In terms of preparing for the interview, consider the following:

1. Reflect on your experiences and interests: College interviews often delve deep into your experiences, both academically and personally. Review your application and think about the experiences and interests you highlighted, as these may be talking points in your interview.

2. Research Stanford: Show that you’re interested in Stanford specifically, not just any top-tier university. Spend some time researching the university, its values, programs, faculty, and culture. This can help you make a compelling case about why you’ve applied and how you could contribute.

3. Practice: Even though the interview is meant to be a conversation, it helps to practice beforehand. You can ask a teacher, family member, or friend to conduct a mock interview with you. This can help you feel more comfortable speaking about your experiences and ambitions.

4. Prepare your own questions: At the end of the interview, you will likely be given an opportunity to ask your own questions. Make them count! Good questions don’t just show that you’ve done your homework—they also demonstrate your curiosity and eagerness to engage.

Remember, while the interview can be an important part of your Stanford application process, it’s just one of the components the university uses to evaluate candidates, along with transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, and more. Plus, since not all applicants are offered one, being interviewed or not doesn't reflect anything about the quality of your application. Best of luck with your application process!