How much are interviews weighted?

Applying to College
1

<p>I was just curious about how much weight an interview at a small LAC has in the admissions process?</p>

<p>I interviewed at a small New England LAC (transfer student) last week and after I explained the situation I am in and several other things to the interviewer at the beginning of the interview (why I want to transfer, etc.), he told me that it was already the best interview he has ever done and that he was even more surprised that he arrived at that decision without even asking me any questions. He repeated this several times throughout the interview so I know it wasn't merely some momentary fit of exaggeration. He also told me things like, "You're just the kind of student we look for here...," and "I see no reason why you wouldn't be offered admission here."</p>

<p>Based on this, is it safe to assume that I have a decent shot here, even if I am probably at the lower end of the applicant pool? I'm unsure of the amount of emphasis that is placed on these interviews and was curious if anyone else knew.</p>

<p>Thanks in advance.</p>

2

<p>Was the interviewer a volunteer or a member of the admissions staff? If the latter, then what occurred is certainly good for you (assuming he/she wasn't just lying that is).</p>

<p>If it's a volunteer, then know that its emphasis may be less and affect your outcome less.</p>

<p>Frankly it surprises me that the person was so emphatic about you given that many other voices are probably still to be heard on your file. When I interview others for college or job positions, I never show that much of my hand unless i knew the outcome. </p>

<p>Nonetheless, congrats for a good interview and good luck to you</p>

3

<p>It definetely depends on the school. Some school's websites will say "interview strongly recommended", while others say "interviews are not a major part of our decision process". Check what the school says.</p>

<p>But if the interviewer was someone high up (i.e. an actual admissions officer) then you've probably got a great chance!</p>