Should I do an interview at Stanford University?

I’m applying to Stanford and was wondering if it’s beneficial to do an interview. Does it actually help my chances or is it just a formality? Any advice on how to prepare if it's worth doing?

Stanford University does offer optional alumni interviews to undergraduate applicants. Although the interviews are not a required part of the application process, they can add another dimension to your application by allowing you to share personal experiences and perspectives that might not be obvious from written applications alone. So, if an interview is offered to you, I would generally recommend going for it.

As per Stanford, the purpose of their interviews is informational, but your discussion will still be documented and considered in the holistic review of your application. The informational nature of the interview means it's primarily about answering your questions about Stanford and clarifying aspects of your application, rather than critically evaluating your candidacy. Therefore, interviewing is likely not make or break for your application, but it gives you an opportunity to add a personal perspective to your written application.

To get ready for the interview, familiarize yourself with your application, as your interviewer might ask you to elaborate on experiences and achievements you've listed. Brush up on basic Stanford facts, like the school's mission, programs they're known for, and current events on campus. This isn't a test of your knowledge about Stanford, but it's impressive if you already know a lot about the school and have specific questions.

Remember to also prepare to discuss any future plans, ambitions and why you specifically want to attend Stanford. Your interviewer might ask about your reasons for choosing your intended major, what you hope to do with your degree after graduation, or why you think Stanford is a good academic, social, and cultural fit for you. Consider these questions ahead of time, but no need to rehearse a "script"—you want your answers to come across as genuine, and not overly rehearsed.

Overall, the interview is simply an opportunity to put a face to your application and further express your interest in Stanford, which could give your application a small edge in a highly competitive pool. Good luck!