From Quora: My Answer to: "Some people on Quora say interview in college application matters a lot and some say the exact opposite. Which one is true?"

Some colleges give interviews only to let you find out information by asking questions of an alumnus - often called an “informational” interview. I’ve gone to them as a college applicant, and I’ve given one to an applicant. Others may count the interview as part of your application.


It would be a good idea to look at the websites and admissions materials for the colleges to which you are applying and find out what weight, if any, they give the interviews. You could also just call the admissions office at each college and ask. No one is going to hold it against you that you called to ask how the admissions process works; if you don’t believe me, just call after blocking Caller ID, and give them a fake name. ;-) But seriously, researching the college admissions process (as well as the faculty, the courses, etc.) at each college you’d want to attend will pay off handsomely.