Tips for the day of the interview

Part 4 of our 5-part series on college interviews covers professional attire, what to bring, what to leave behind, and how to carry yourself to make a good impression.

In this series:

1. Understanding college admission interviews: Purpose, types, and importance
2. Preparing for the college interview: Research, logistics, and practice
3. College interview preparation resources
4. Tips for the day of the interview
5. College interviews: Special considerations and troubleshooting

Dress for confidence: What to wear to your college admission interview

As a student preparing for your college admission interview, you want to make a great first impression - your outfit is an easy place to start. Pick something that feels comfortable yet professional so you can focus on your conversation, not your clothes.

Aim for business casual. You’re not expected to show up in a suit, but you should look a step above your normal school attire. For example:

• All applicants: Slacks or khakis with a collared shirt or blouse always look put-together.
• Women: A knee-length (or longer) dress or skirt that fits well and feels professional is a safe bet (how to dress for a college interview, what to wear for your college admission interview, and why it matters).
• Men: Slacks or khakis with a collared, long-sleeved shirt work nicely. Add a blazer if you have one, but you can skip a full suit (what to wear to your college interview).

Fit and simplicity matter. Clothes that are too tight, too short, or have distracting patterns take attention away from what you’re saying (college interview attire guidelines).

Think about the setting:

• At highly selective schools, go a little more formal.
• For STEM or business programs, classic, simple outfits are best.
• If you’re applying to creative programs, you can show a little personality - but skip anything too loud or casual.

Skip these items:

• Flip-flops
• Athletic wear, sweatpants, or loungewear
• Jeans or shorts
• T-shirts
• Anything with offensive or political messages (college interview dress code)

A good rule: Your outfit should help you feel confident and let your personality shine, not distract your interviewer. As Empowerly puts it, “the best outfits are those that the interviewer doesn’t even notice.” (Why Your College Interview Outfit Matters).

The essential checklist: What to bring to your college interview

Showing up prepared is one of the easiest ways to calm your nerves and show you’re serious about your college plans. Here’s a quick checklist - print it, screenshot it, or save it for the big day:

1. Notepad and pen: Bring a notepad and pen (not your phone!) to jot down info or questions. This shows you’re engaged and helps you remember important points (what to bring to a virtual college interview).

2. Two printed copies of your resume: One for you, one for the interviewer. A simple, clear resume can help guide your conversation (college interview preparation tips).

3. Program-specific materials: If your field requires it:

• Art: a portfolio (digital or printed)
• Athletics: highlight reel or a link
• Performing arts: performance recordings
  • Only bring these if they’re relevant (materials for your virtual college interview).

4. Academic reference info: Have a summary of your test scores, GPA, and awards handy (printed or on a card) in case you’re asked.

5. Organizational tools: A padfolio keeps your materials neat. You can also include a list of your questions and a lint roller or stain remover for last-minute fixes (basic packing list for interviews).

6. Virtual interview prep: If your interview is online:

• Test your video setup
• Charge your device
• Bookmark the meeting link
• Have backup contact info ready (virtual college interview preparation).

7. Requested documents: Bring any materials that admissions specifically asked for. Double-check your list so you don’t forget anything.

Extra tip: Try to arrive 10-15 minutes early for in-person interviews to get settled and relax (major college interview questions to prepare for).

Having these essentials ready will help you feel organized and confident during your interview.

Should you bring a resume or portfolio to your college admission interview?

It’s normal to wonder if you should bring a resume or portfolio. The truth? Most undergraduate interviews are just conversations, so you don’t need to overload with paperwork.

Resumes are good to have, but interviewers may not ask for them. On College Confidential, students say their resume is rarely requested. Most interviewers just want to get to know you.

When is a portfolio helpful?

• If you’re applying to visual arts, design, or talent-based programs, a small portfolio can show your work - but only bring it if it’s actually relevant (should you submit an optional portfolio? - Get Into College).

What should you actually bring?

• The Student Doctor Network discussion recommends a padfolio or notebook for note-taking - not for handing out papers.

"I think it's fine to bring a padfolio with you to the school to take notes throughout the day; however, I wouldn't bring mine into the actual interview."

In short: Bring a resume just in case, but focus on being genuine and ready to share your story. That matters more than any document.

Should you bring transcripts or application materials to your college interview? Making smart choices

You want to be prepared, but you don’t want to come across as overbearing. Here’s how to find the right balance:

• Resumes are almost always recommended. Bring two copies - one for you, one for your interviewer (CollegeVine).
• Transcripts are rarely needed. Alumni interviewers almost never ask for them. Admissions staff might, so have them tucked away just in case.
• Don’t lead with paperwork: Keep documents in a folder and only share them if you’re asked. Dumping documents on the table can make the conversation feel stiff.
• Share thoughtfully: Sometimes, admissions staff will keep your transcript for a recommendation letter. If you’re asked, hand it over - but otherwise, let your story do the talking.

"Having copies of your transcript and test scores can help the conversation, but don’t lead with paperwork: let your story lead."

Quick reference:

To wrap up: Bring your materials, keep them organized and out of sight, and only offer them if they’re requested. Most importantly, focus on sharing who you are and why you’re excited about the college - your preparation and personality will shine through most.

In the final installment of our 5-part series on college admissions interviews, we go over potential last-minute hiccups and how to stay calm if you encounter them.