Request a Virtual Interview

Who can interview?

Virtual interviews are now available for prospective first-year applicants who are considering applying to Barnard for the upcoming admission cycle (2021-2022 admission cycle).

Interviews are offered between June and December on a first-come, first-served basis. Students are permitted to schedule only one interview. Interviews are not offered for transfer/visiting applicants. All interviews this year will be conducted virtually.

We are no longer accepting requests for interviews for students applying through Early Decision or the QuestBridge National College Match. If you are considering applying through Regular Decision, please check back soon — we will be adding more interview slots for prospective Regular Decision applicants on November 1st, 2021.

When should I request an interview?

Interviews are available on a first-come, first-served basis. At Barnard, interviews occur before your application deadline. We encourage students interested in an interview to request an interview early.

Interviews must be completed before the application deadline for the round you are applying, or they will not be considered as part of your application.

Are interviews required?

Interviews are completely optional. We do not track demonstrated interest as part of our admissions process, and applicants who don't interview are at no disadvantage in our application review process.

Why request an interview?

An interview allows our admissions team to get to know you beyond your written application. An interview is both informational and evaluative in nature, allowing you to learn about Barnard and for us to learn more about you. For you, it is an opportunity to have a conversation with a member of the Barnard community and get your questions answered during a personal, one-on-one interaction. Interviews last about 20 to 30 minutes and are considered in our application review.

What can I expect during my interview?

You will have a short conversation with a staff member, Barnard alumna, or current senior trained to conduct interviews. During your interview, you'll be asked questions so we can learn more about your curiosities, your interests, and your thoughts about Barnard. You do not need to bring any materials with you to your virtual interview.

How can I prepare for my interview?

We encourage you to attend a virtual information session and Intro to Student Life meeting so you have some familiarity with Barnard before your interview. You can also read this blog post with tips for your virtual interview.

Can international students interview?

Yes. We ask that all students sign up for interviews that will occur between 9:00am and 7:00pm in their own time zones. (Interviews are listed in Eastern Time.)

For prospective international applicants, we often have far fewer interviewers than we have requests for interviews. International students can complete an interview with InitialView at any time; for one fee, you can send an interview video/report to multiple colleges. InitialView interviews are not Barnard-specific. If interview fees present a hardship for you and your family, you can email international@barnard.edu for an alternate solution.