Your college interview is a fantastic opportunity to make a great impression and learn more about the school you hope to attend.
Many students get anxious about what questions the interviewer will ask them. But did you know that you should be asking the interviewer questions too?
Asking insightful, well-thought-out questions during your college interview shows that you’re genuinely interested in the school and curious to learn more.
It allows you to gain a deeper understanding of whether the college is truly a good fit for you.
Asking questions also turns the interview into more of a two-way conversation, helping you build rapport with the interviewer.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover:
- Why asking questions is crucial in college interviews
- 10 thoughtful, impactful questions to ask
- Tips for asking your questions confidently and politely
- How to interpret and act on the answers you receive
Excited to impress your college interviewer and gain valuable insights?
Let’s get started!
Important Questions to Ask Your College Interviewer
What made you choose this college?
Kicking off with a question about the interviewer’s personal experience shows you’re interested in connecting with them as an individual, not just as a representative of the college. Plus, as a graduate of the school, their perspective can give you an insider’s view of what makes this college special.
You could phrase it like, “I’d love to hear what drew you to [College Name] when you were a student here. What made it stand out from other schools you were considering?” This question shows respect for their opinion and experiences.
If they talk about unique academic programs, internship opportunities, or a tight-knit community, it suggests the college has a lot to offer to help you thrive and grow. Pay attention to whether their reasons for choosing the school align with your priorities.
On the other hand, if they seem caught off guard or give a bland, generic answer, it could be a red flag that the school doesn’t have a strong, distinctive identity. You want to attend a college that inspires passion and loyalty in its students and alumni.
The interviewer’s answer can help you determine if this school is somewhere you’d be excited to spend your college years. Do their eyes light up as they reflect on their student experiences? Do they have powerful examples of how the college impacted them? The energy and detail in their response will tell you a lot.
How would you describe the academic culture and student community here?
Understanding the academic and social environment is key to picturing yourself as a student there. Are students competitive or collaborative? Is the campus politically active? How do people spend their free time? The interviewer can paint a picture of daily life at this college.
Consider asking, “What words would you use to describe [College Name]’s academic culture and student community? How would you characterize the student body and the campus vibe?”
Ideally, the interviewer will give a thorough, balanced description covering both academics and student life. They may characterize the school as “intellectual and curious” or “service-oriented and tight-knit.” Specific anecdotes or examples of student activities and traditions are a great sign that campus life is vibrant and engaged.
If academics are your top priority, note if the interviewer emphasizes the rigorous curriculum, ambitious students, and intense class discussions. But if you’re seeking a laid-back, sociable atmosphere, key in on whether they mention friendly people, a lively campus, and an emphasis on fun. Most colleges offer some combination of these elements.
No school is perfect, though, so be cautious of an overly rosy or one-dimensional description. A thoughtful interviewer may mention some of the college’s weaknesses or challenges, such as “Students can feel stressed at times” or “It can be hard to get into popular classes.” This honesty suggests the school is self-aware and working to address limitations.
Ultimately, the interviewer’s perspective on academics and student life will enrich the impression you’ve gathered from brochures and websites. Are intellectual curiosity and school spirit alive and well? You’ll be better equipped to determine if you’d feel at home and inspired here.
What type of student thrives at this college? What qualities do successful students share?
You want to attend a college that’s a good fit for your personality, interests, and learning style. Asking the interviewer to describe successful students is a savvy way to see if you’d flourish there. It can also give you ideas for how to make the most of the college experience.
Try phrasing it like, “When you think of students who thrive at [College Name], what traits or qualities do they have in common? What do you think it takes to be successful here?”
A strong answer will go beyond just “students who are smart and work hard” (that applies anywhere). Look for specifics like “students who are self-motivated and willing to take intellectual risks” or “students who embrace our [specific teaching philosophy].” The interviewer may also emphasize qualities like curiosity, open-mindedness, resilience, or resourcefulness.
Ideally, you’ll recognize aspects of yourself in the description. Maybe you’re an intellectually adventurous student who loves discussing big ideas, just like the interviewer describes. Or perhaps you’re community-minded and drawn to teamwork, which the interviewer says is key to thriving at this school.
If the description of a successful student doesn’t sound like you, don’t panic. Few people perfectly embody every trait mentioned. Rather, reflect on whether you could see yourself developing those qualities with the support of this college environment.
Also, consider how you might contribute your unique strengths and perspectives to this student body. The interviewer describes successful students, but colleges benefit from diversity too. Maybe you’d thrive by bringing a different worldview or set of experiences. Ask yourself if you could both gain from and enrich this community.
What do you wish you had known as an incoming first-year student? What advice would you give to new students?
Asking for advice shows you’re humble, growth-oriented, and proactive about preparing for college. It positions the interviewer as a knowledgeable mentor who wants to see you succeed. Their hard-won wisdom can help you have a smoother transition and make the most of your early college days.
Consider asking, “Knowing what you know now, what do you wish someone had told you before starting your first year at [College Name]? What’s the most valuable piece of advice you’d offer to an incoming student?”
The interviewer may share practical tips such as “Go to your professors’ office hours” or “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.” These suggestions often reflect the college’s culture and values (such as close student-faculty relationships or robust support services) which are great signs.
Advice about maximizing your academic experience is especially valuable, like “Take at least one small seminar class” or “Study abroad if you can.” This shows the college wants you to take advantage of its unique offerings.
Words of wisdom about branching out socially are also very telling. Suggestions like “Get involved in one or two student orgs” or “Make an effort to meet people from different backgrounds” indicate a vibrant campus life with opportunities to find your niche.
Pay attention to any challenges or pitfalls the interviewer wishes they had avoided as a first-year student, like “Don’t overload yourself in the first semester” or “It’s okay if you don’t find your ideal friend group right away.” This self-awareness and growth mindset likely permeates the student body.
Soak up the interviewer’s hard-earned insights and reflect on how you could apply their wisdom to your college journey. What academic risks could you take? How might you expand your social comfort zone? The interviewer was once a nervous new student too and look how they’ve grown! You’ll likely do the same.
Can you tell me about an especially memorable or impactful class you took as a student here?
As you evaluate different colleges, you’re probably curious about the classroom experience. What is it like to be a student sitting in a lecture hall or seminar table? Asking the interviewer to describe a standout class can bring academics to life beyond the course catalog.
You might say, “I’d love to hear about a class at [College Name] that was particularly memorable, challenging, or impactful for you as a student. What made it so powerful?”
If the interviewer can readily name a specific course, that’s a great sign that the college’s classes are engaging and stick with students. Even better if their faces light up as they describe the experience. Look for details about what made this class special, such as:
- A passionate, brilliant professor who pushed students to think critically
- A unique, innovative teaching style (discussions, projects, field trips)
- The connection of classroom ideas to real-world issues and applications
- Transformative intellectual growth that shaped the student’s worldview
- Close relationships with classmates through stimulating conversation
These elements suggest the college’s academic program is designed to help students truly learn, not just earn grades and credits. The most impactful classes are often challenging in the best way.
If the class that stood out to the interviewer aligns with your own academic interests, that’s an especially positive sign. You may be able to take the very same course one day! But even if the topic differs from your planned major, an engaging description indicates that the college invests in strong teaching across disciplines.
Of course, no college is perfect. The interviewer may mention that the class was at times stressful or the workload intense. But hopefully, they’ll emphasize how it was worth the effort. Great classes often demand a lot but leave a lasting impact.
What support systems are in place to help students navigate challenges and reach their goals?
College isn’t always smooth sailing, academically or personally. Asking about support systems demonstrates that you’re realistic about the challenges ahead and proactive about setting yourself up to succeed. It also shows you’re evaluating what the college will invest in you, not just the reverse.
Try phrasing it like, “We all face obstacles in college at times, whether it’s a tough class or a stressful transition. How does [College Name] support students in navigating challenges? What resources help students thrive?”
A strong answer will cover both academic and personal/social support. On the academic side, look for mentions of tutoring services, writing centers, accessible faculty, and academic advising. Bonus points if these services seem well-promoted and widely used by students.
Personal support might include counseling services, diversity and inclusion offices, health and wellness programs, and initiatives to foster community. It’s a great sign if support is comprehensive and extends beyond academics. College is a major life transition and you may need help adjusting.
Ideally, the interviewer can share an anecdote about how they benefited from a particular resource, like “I was struggling in my first-year writing class but the Writing Center helped me improve my papers.” Specific examples indicate robust, well-utilized support systems.
If the interviewer seems confused by the question or only mentions a couple of minimal resources, that could be a red flag. You want a college that’s truly invested in student success and has structures to back that up, especially if you anticipate any academic or personal challenges.
Hearing about extensive support systems can provide peace of mind that you won’t be left on your own to navigate college’s ups and downs. Reflect on which resources you might take advantage of and how they could enrich your college experience. You’re not just choosing a college, but a support network.
How do students here get involved in research, internships, or other hands-on learning opportunities?
One of the most valuable aspects of college is the chance to apply your classroom learning through real-world experiences. Asking this question shows you’re eager to make the most of these opportunities. It also demonstrates a proactive interest in your future career and personal development.
Consider saying, “I’m excited to explore hands-on learning experiences in college, whether it’s assisting with research or completing an internship. How do [College Name] students typically get involved in these opportunities?”
In the ideal answer, the interviewer will enthusiastically list several ways students can gain hands-on experience, such as:
- Assisting with faculty research projects
- Completing funded summer research programs
- Consulting for businesses or nonprofits through a class project
- Participating in a co-op program alternating school and full-time work
- Getting support from a career center to find internships
Bonus points if the college has established relationships with local organizations to provide internships and projects. It’s also a great sign if there are opportunities for underclassmen, not just juniors and seniors.
If undergraduate research is a priority for you, listen for how the interviewer describes student involvement. Do students work closely with faculty? Present at conferences? Publish or patent their work? The most meaningful research experiences are highly collaborative and impactful.
Note that for some colleges, internships may be more common than research, or vice versa. Consider your interest areas and whether the interviewer’s description aligns. You can also ask about opportunities in a specific field: “I’m planning to major in biology. Are there ways for students to get involved in research from the start?”
The interviewer may mention that these opportunities can be competitive, especially for first-year students. That’s okay. The key is that there are clear structures in place for students to get involved, whether it’s immediately or down the road. You want a college that values hands-on learning and integration of academics with the real world.
How does [College Name] help students prepare for life after graduation? What career planning services are available?
As fun and enriching as the college years are, the goal is ultimately to set yourself up for the future. Asking how the college helps students prepare for careers and life post-graduation shows you’re thinking long-term. It also invites the interviewer to share how the college will invest in your success beyond the classroom.
Try asking, “I know college is a time for learning and growth, but I’m also curious how [College Name] helps students prepare for their lives and careers after graduation. Can you tell me about the resources available for career exploration and planning?”
Look for an enthusiastic description of a multi-pronged approach to career prep, starting from a student’s first year. A strong career services office will offer:
- One-on-one career counseling to identify interests and goals
- Personality and skill assessments to explore suitable career paths
- Workshops on resume writing, interviewing, networking, and job searching
- Job and internship databases available exclusively to students and alumni
- Partnerships with employers to provide job shadowing and mentoring
- Industry-specific career fairs and networking events
- Support for applying to graduate school, if that’s of interest
If career services are a high priority for you, listen for how robustly the interviewer describes these offerings. Ideally, career prep is an integral part of the student experience, not just a last-minute hurdle before graduation.
It’s a great sign if the interviewer can share statistics on job and grad school placement rates for recent grads. This data indicates the college doesn’t just offer career services, but that those services translate to real results.
The most valuable career prep often happens through relationships, so note how the interviewer describes networking opportunities. Do students have the chance to connect with successful alumni? With potential employers? College isn’t just about gaining knowledge but social capital.
Keep in mind that some colleges may have a stronger pre-professional focus than others. If you’re passionate about a field where the traditional career path is less defined, like English or art, look for broad skill-building opportunities rather than a narrow vocational pipeline.
How do students get involved in extracurricular activities? What are some of the most popular clubs and organizations?
College isn’t just about academics, it’s about the entire experience. Getting involved outside the classroom is key to building community, developing leadership skills, and having fun! Asking about extracurricular offerings shows the interviewer that you’re eager to contribute to campus life and make the most of your college years.
You could say something like, “I’m looking forward to getting involved in student organizations and activities in college. What’s the process for joining clubs at [College Name]? And what are some of the most popular or impactful groups on campus?”
A great answer will demonstrate genuine excitement and a detailed rundown of the extracurricular landscape. Listen for mentions of:
- A wide variety of clubs and organizations to suit diverse interests
- Annual events like student activity fairs to discover groups
- Open membership policies for most clubs, to promote inclusivity
- Leadership and funding support for students to start new clubs
- High overall student participation in extracurricular life
If a few specific clubs pique your interest, feel free to ask for more details! The interviewer may share their personal experience with a beloved organization or describe a unique campus event. You can gauge whether there are existing communities you’d like to join.
Ideally, the interviewer will emphasize that there truly is something for everyone. Whether you’re passionate about activism, a cappella, or anime, you’ll find a niche. They may mention that students often discover new interests through clubs they’d never considered before!
It’s also a great sign if the interviewer discusses how student organizations enhance the college experience as a whole. Maybe an activist group promotes important dialogue on campus, or cultural organizations collaborate to host a beloved annual festival. Extracurricular involvement should help students feel a sense of community and belonging.
Of course, the interviewer will likely draw from their own experience as a student. Remember that some clubs may have evolved, and that you’ll have the chance to shape extracurricular offerings yourself! Think of the interviewer’s description as a snapshot of the opportunities and culture, not a fixed menu.
What do you see as the greatest strength of [College Name]? How do you think the college could improve?
Wrapping up your questions with a request for honest feedback shows maturity and genuineness. No college is perfect, and you want to demonstrate that you value the interviewer’s candid perspective, both positive and negative. This question also gives you a chance to reflect critically on whether the college’s strengths align with your needs and priorities.
Consider phrasing it like, “In your view, what are [College Name]’s greatest strengths? What are you most proud of about the school? On the flip side, where do you think the college has room to improve?”
If the interviewer can readily identify a key strength, that’s a great sign that the college has a clear identity and mission. They may highlight the school’s:
- Tight-knit, supportive community that allows students to form deep relationships
- Commitment to intellectual curiosity and love of learning
- Unparalleled opportunities for hands-on research or internships
- Dedication to service and making a positive impact in the world
- A holistic approach to student growth and development
Listen for specific examples or anecdotes that illustrate these strengths in action. A vague platitude like “We have great academics” is less revealing than a story about how a professor went the extra mile to support a struggling student.
When it comes to areas for improvement, consider it a positive sign if the interviewer offers a thoughtful, nuanced response. Defensiveness or an inability to think critically could be red flags. All colleges face challenges and the best ones are honest about their growing edges.
The interviewer may mention areas such as increasing student diversity, expanding mental health resources, or promoting sustainability. Ideally, they’ll share concrete steps the college is taking to make progress, demonstrating a commitment to positive change.
As you reflect on the interviewer’s response, ask yourself if the college’s strengths resonate with your goals and values. A stellar science program won’t mean much if you’re an aspiring artist. On the flip side, weaknesses may be deal-breakers or areas where you could help the college improve.
Remember that this is just one person’s perspective, informed by their own experiences. The interviewer’s insights can guide your college decision, but shouldn’t be the only factor. Trust your gut feeling about the overall campus culture and whether you’d thrive there.
Conclusion
Congrats, you’re now equipped with 10 insightful, impactful questions to ask your college interviewer!
Remember, this conversation isn’t just about impressing the college – it’s your chance to gather intel and determine if the school is truly a great fit for you.
Aim to ask 3-5 questions that align with your top priorities, whether it’s academic rigor, professional development, extracurricular opportunities, or student support systems.
Listen carefully to the responses and don’t hesitate to ask follow-ups if you need clarification or more details.
When you ask questions confidently and thoughtfully, you demonstrate genuine interest and initiative.
But more importantly, you gain invaluable insights into the college experience and community that can guide your enrollment decision.
You’ll walk away with a clearer sense of how you’d learn, grow, and thrive on that campus – or maybe, that it isn’t the right school for you after all.
Wishing you an engaging, enlightening college interview experience!
May these questions empower you to find your ideal college fit and set yourself up for a transformative educational journey.