What's the Harvard University interview process like?

Hi there! I'm planning to apply to Harvard University, and I've heard they sometimes offer interviews. Can someone explain the interview process for Harvard? How do they determine who gets an interview, and what do the interviewers usually look for? Cheers!

Hello! The interview process at Harvard University is a valuable opportunity for the admissions team to get to know you better and to assess your candidacy for the school. Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Determining who gets an interview: Typically, Harvard offers interviews to nearly all applicants. However, availability is subject to volunteer interviewers (usually alumni) in your area. The interview is intended to provide an extra layer of information and context to help the admissions team make better-informed decisions, so don't worry if you don't receive an interview invitation.

2. Interview logistics: If you're offered an interview, you'll be contacted by an alumni interviewer to schedule a meeting. The interview will likely take place in a public location, like a coffee shop, library, or a quiet restaurant. Interviews usually last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.

3. Preparation: To prepare for your interview, you should be ready to discuss your academic background, extracurricular activities, and future aspirations. Think about why you are interested in Harvard and what you can contribute to the community. While you don't need to memorize precise answers, it's helpful to think about some key points you'd like to convey to the interviewer.

4. Interview content: During the interview, expect to have a conversation that covers topics like your background, your interests and hobbies, achievements, why you want to attend Harvard, and your long-term goals. The interviewer is there to learn more about you, so the conversation should be friendly and engaging.

5. Post-interview: After the interview, it's a good idea to send a thank-you note to your interviewer, expressing gratitude for their time and reiterating your interest in Harvard. The interviewer will write a summary of the conversation and share it with the admissions committee as part of your application review process.

Keep in mind that the interview is only one part of your application. While a strong interview can help reinforce your fit for the school, a less-than-stellar interview is unlikely to make or break your chances. The most important thing is to be yourself, be genuine, and be prepared to discuss your interests, achievements, and goals for the future. Good luck!