College interviews don’t have to feel like an interrogation under a fluorescent light. Think of them more like a conversation with a very official stranger who genuinely wants to know you. And while not every college requires an interview, they’re most common at highly selective or reach-level schools. So, if you’re aiming high, this is especially for you.
Your interviewer isn’t looking for a perfectly scripted performance. They’re looking for your real personality, your interests, your spark, and yes, maybe how well you can avoid saying “uhhh… sooo…” every five seconds.
But a little preparation never hurt anyone. There are certain questions that pop up in almost every interview, so it’s smart to walk in with some ideas ready. Below are 15 common college interview questions… plus guidance on how to answer them like the cool, confident future-college-student you are.
1. “Tell us a little about yourself.”
Ah yes, the classic opener. Your interviewer is basically saying: “Give me your 60-second highlight reel.”
Share your interests, talents, and maybe one fun detail that makes you memorable — but keep it short. Think “mini-trailer,” not “full documentary.” And if your brain freezes, it’s totally okay to pause silently instead of spiraling into “ummm… soooo… you know what I mean…” territory.
2. “What are you interested in studying?”
You don’t need to have your entire academic destiny figured out, but be ready to explain what draws you to a potential major and why. Bonus points if you know a bit about the department, a cool professor, or a project that piqued your interest. Showing you’ve done some digging = instant interviewer respect.
3. “Who or what has influenced you?”
Think personal, not Pinterest. Your interviewer wants to hear about the people, moments, or experiences that shaped you and why they matter. Who or what drives you to succeed? This is your chance to tell a mini-story.
4. “What separates you from other applicants?”
Everyone says they’re hardworking and motivated… which means those answers won’t help you stand out. Focus on personality, experiences, and values that make you you. What’s your vibe? Show it!
5. “What are you looking forward to in college?”
Talk about the academics, the independence, the chance to explore new interests, or whatever genuinely excites you. Chat about the differences between high school and college student life. And yes… it’s okay to mention the dining hall after you’ve talked about the intellectual stuff.
6. “Why this school?”
Please don’t say “the vibes.”
Instead, show that you actually know things about the school, like the academics, programs, clubs, campus traditions, that one professor whose TED Talk you watched, etc. Show the interviewer that you know your stuff, then relate it back to you and your future at the school. The more specific you are, the more prepared you look.
7. “What contributions have you made to your high school?”
You’re not being asked to list everything you’ve ever done since freshman year. Think about the impact you made: friendships, leadership roles, clubs, sports, mentorship, projects you’re proud of. Colleges care about the kind of energy you bring to a community, so talk about that.
8. “What do you enjoy in your free time?”
Be honest! Whether you're into pickleball, video editing, D&D, hiking, creative writing, or obsessively rearranging your Spotify playlists, own it. Passion is memorable, even if your hobby isn’t “I built an app at age 12.”
9. “What challenges have you faced, and how did you grow from them?”
Focus on growth more than the challenge itself. Show resilience, self-reflection and what you learned without turning your interview into a dramatic monologue.
10. “What’s one accomplishment you’re proud of?”
This doesn’t have to be a trophy moment. It can be something meaningful, personal, or subtle, like overcoming a fear, improving your grades, or lifting a club off the ground.
11. “How do you handle stress?”
No, you cannot say, “I don’t.”
Instead, talk about strategies that help you stay balanced: organization, exercise, art, music, talking things out, etc. Show that you have tools - not chaos.
12. “Can you name a time that you stepped up as a leader?”
Choose a moment where you took initiative, solved a problem, helped others, or guided a group, big or small. Focus on what you did, how you felt, and what you learned.
13. “What skills do you hope to develop while in college?”
Colleges love students who want to grow. Mention skills like leadership, communication, time management, research, problem-solving, or technical abilities related to your interests. Bonus points for tying it to future plans.
14. “Where do you see yourself in five years?”
You don’t need a blueprint, but share your hopes, interests, and direction. Keep it realistic and optimistic, not “winning an Oscar” (unless you’re majoring in film… in which case, go off).
15. “Do you have any questions for us?”
YES. You do. Always.
Prepare at least 2–3 thoughtful questions about campus life, academics, opportunities, or student support. It shows you’re engaged and thinking seriously about your future there. Go beyond questions that can easily be answered from the school’s website.
Quick Tips for Answering Any Interview Question
Let’s wrap up!
At the end of the day, college interviews aren’t meant to be scary, especially since most colleges won’t require one at all. But if you’re applying to highly selective or reach-level schools, interviews can play an important role in showing who you are beyond grades and test scores. With a little prep, a few solid stories, and the confidence to be your authentic self, you’ll walk in ready to make a great impression. You don’t need perfect answers - you just need your answers. And trust us, that’s more than enough.