I’m in a panic. W&M is my #1 choice and I will apply ED this year. Someone told me this weekend that I need to interview there to even have a chance at admissions. They said they heard that in an information session while visiting. I don’t think that I can make another trip there before the application is due. I read on their admissions website that interviews in no way will decrease my chances but why would someone say that? Honestly, when you are looking at 5+ colleges in a weekend how are you supposed to interview? This is so stressful.
The website says that “the absence of an interview will in no way be a disadvantage in the application process.” This is a primary source, whereas the person you were talking to is a less-reliable secondary source – they probably misunderstood or misheard. Don’t worry about it.
I went on a tour there this summer and I remember them saying that the interview was totally optional.
Interviews are super optional, especially since they just aren’t that doable for OOS/international students (unless maybe they have some type of online/off-campus interview system I’m not aware of). That being said, if you are OOS, your chances are quite a bit slimmer than in-state students’ chances by default, so an interview would definitely be a bonus - it just won’t HURT your chances if you don’t interview 
Now, something that’s technically optional but strongly recommended is the W&M-specific application essay… I’d say definitely do that! But don’t stress yourself out about the interview
I’m sure you have already applied, but interviews are completely optional. I am from OOS and when I toured I didn’t even know that interviews were an option. I specifically went up to the W&M admissions people and asked if I should come back for an interview (I was willing and ready to do so), and very clearly they said no. Several (actually the vast majority of people) don’t interview and get in.