Columbia / Interview
The Columbia interview
Optional interview, and it carries minor weight in the decision. Here is how it works and how to prepare.
Optional interview
Optional alumni interview, ~30-45 min, conducted by Columbia Alumni Representative Committee (ARC) volunteers, typically virtual or in your local area; not available in all regions
How to prepare for Columbia
- Columbia's interview is informational and conversational rather than evaluative , the alumni rep files a brief report, but it rarely makes or breaks a decision at a 4% admit rate; your application materials carry far more weight.
- Lean into Columbia's Core Curriculum: be ready to articulate why you want a broad liberal-arts foundation alongside your specific interests, and how you see yourself contributing to that intellectual community.
- Columbia alumni interviewers often ask what you would add to campus life , not just what Columbia offers you. Have a genuine answer about student groups, research, or neighborhoods in NYC that connect to your actual interests.
- Not everyone gets offered an interview , availability depends on your region. If you are not contacted, there is no disadvantage; do not cold-email the admissions office to request one.
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.
Practice interview questionsStill building your Columbia application?
Back to Columbia