# Admissions Interview — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/admissions-interview

**In short:** A conversation between applicants/families and school representatives as part of the private school application process.
An **admissions interview** is a conversation between prospective students and/or families and school representatives. Common in private school admissions, interviews help schools assess fit, interests, and communication while giving families opportunity to ask questions.

## Types of Interviews

Interviews may be one-on-one with admissions officers, group interviews, or family interviews. Some schools interview students separately from parents. Virtual interviews have become more common.

## Preparation

Research the school thoroughly, prepare to discuss interests and goals, practice common questions, and develop thoughtful questions to ask. Be authentic rather than trying to say what you think schools want to hear.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What do schools ask in admissions interviews?**

Common questions address interests, strengths, challenges, why you want to attend, favorite subjects, extracurricular activities, and goals.
**Q: How should I prepare for an admissions interview?**

Research the school, practice discussing your interests and experiences, prepare questions, dress appropriately, and be authentic.

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Source: SchoolBrowse Education Glossary (https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary). Please attribute and link to https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/admissions-interview when citing this definition.