Interview FAQ

Do I have to submit an application to Reed before I interview?

No. You can interview at any point after the start of your second semester of your junior year of high school.

How do interviews work for international students?

Please visit the interviews section of our International Applicants page to learn more about how interviews work for international students. 

International students are also encouraged to attend an International Student Drop-in to learn more about applying to Reed.

Where can I interview?

You can interview in person or virtually. In person interviews can be requested through the on-campus visit registration. You can request a virtual interview here.

When should I schedule my interview?

Around the application deadline, demand for interviews increases, and every person who would like to interview may not get the chance.

So, what should you do?

  1. Early Decision and Early Action Applicants can reach out to our office. We may be able to accommodate a virtual interview before the recommended deadlines (Dec. 1st for ED, Dec. 10th for Early Action). Please contact us at campus.visit@reed.edu or (503) 777-7511.
  2. Regular Decision Applicants can schedule an interview at a later date. Before reading your application for admission, your admission counselor will be made aware of your scheduled meeting.
  3. Participate in an alternative admission event. Not participating in an interview won’t negatively impact your chance of admission, and other events are great tools for learning more about Reed.
  4. Reach out to your admission counselor. We are always available to answer your questions, so don’t wait on an interview to get the additional information you need.

May I schedule a second interview?

No. We receive a large number of interview requests every year and can offer only one interview per applicant. If you have already completed or scheduled an on-campus interview, you may not request a second interview.

What should I wear to my interview?

Dress in whatever is most comfortable for you.

What kinds of questions should I expect to be asked during my interview?

Students should be prepared to discuss their interests, both academic and personal, including, for instance, their favorite subject, author, or activity. Parents will be able to ask questions after the interview concludes.

Should I be nervous?

Not at all. Our interviewers are knowledgeable and excited to talk about Reed.

Do I need to bring anything to my interview?

No.

Can my parent or guardian sit in on the interview?

Interviews are a one-on-one conversation. Parents will be able to ask questions after the interview concludes.