CMC / Interview
The CMC interview
Evaluative interview, and it carries moderate weight in the decision. Here is how it works and how to prepare.
Evaluative interview
Optional but evaluative interview, ~30 min; formats include on-campus (with senior or admission officer), virtual, alumni (Sept-mid-Dec), or off-campus with admission officers; one interview max per applicant
How to prepare for CMC
- CMC explicitly calls interviews 'evaluative,' not just informational , treat it as a real factor, especially for borderline decisions.
- You can only schedule one interview total, so choose the format (on-campus, virtual, alumni, or off-campus officer visit) that lets you be most relaxed and articulate.
- If you cannot interview, CMC offers an optional video response as an alternative , use it, since skipping both leaves a gap in your application.
- CMC's identity centers on leadership, economics/public policy, and the Open Academy ethos , be ready to speak specifically about intellectual interests and how you see yourself contributing to that culture.
Practice before the real thing
Rehearse real admissions-interview questions and get an honest read on your answers, what an interviewer hears, where you sound generic, and what to sharpen. We coach you; we never script you.
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