Expert: Jay Cutts - 3/12/2009

Question
Hello, how do graduate schools determine who to accept from interviews? Does it mean anything that (I) my application was selected for an interview? What is the purpose of an interview and am I a step closer to being accepted? Are all applicants selected for an interview?
-Thanks

Answer
Hi.  

You didn't mention what graduate field you are applying to.  In general, programs don't interview everyone, so, yes, you have passed the first hurdle.  In some programs they do interview everyone who meets certain minimum criteria, in which case getting an interview doesn't really tell you anything.

So, basically you are probably a step closer.  What should you do to prepare for the interview?  In my perspective the interview is a live version of your personal statement.  If you have prepared a strong personal statement, you should be well prepared for the interview.  Unfortunately, most people's personal statements are not as strong as they could be - even when someone knowledgable has read it and said it's cool.

I have a lot of free information on my website about writing an effective personal statement.  You can access it at:

http://www.cuttsreviews.com

I hope that helps.  Please feel free to contact me directly if you have some other questions or concerns.

Best,

Jay Cutts
Cutts Graduate Reviews