Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

College Interview: How to Explain Why I Chose This University?

I have an interview soon, and I need to convincingly explain why I chose this particular university. Any tips on how to answer this effectively without sounding rehearsed or generic?

a year ago

Being able to effectively convey your reasons for selecting a specific university during your interview is crucial, and can work in your favor by demonstrating that you have put substantial thought into your decision. Here are a few tips:

1. Discuss the Course or Major: Talk about the specific course or major you intend to study, and why this university is the best choice for that. You could mention the university's special facilities, faculty, teaching methodology or any unique opportunities offered as part of the program.

2. Unique Opportunities: Discuss any unique aspects of the university that specifically drew your attention. This could include research opportunities, specific extracurriculars, internships, or industry connections that put this university above others for your field of study.

3. Career Aspirations: Connect your choice of university to your career goals. Maybe the university has an excellent record in your field of interest or it offers certain opportunities relevant to your career aspirations.

4. Location and Culture: Explain how the geographic location or the campus culture of the university is conducive to your personal or professional growth. You could mention how the university's location aligns with your interests, including networking opportunities, internships, cultural fit, or lifestyle.

While these are good starting points, the most important thing is to be personal and genuine - let your real passion and clear thought process shine through. The more authentic and personal your reasons, the less rehearsed you'll sound! It's also important to remember to articulate that you plan to return to your home country after completion of your studies. This is a crucial point to communicate during an interview.

a year ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.