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Common Stanford Interview Questions And How To Ace Them

By Eric Eng

By Eric Eng

A student answering Stanford questions being asked by an alumna

Getting into Stanford is no small feat—it’s one of the toughest schools to crack. If you’re admitted, it’s definitely a huge achievement. But to secure your spot, you need to shine in every part of the admissions process, and that includes the optional interviews. Even though they’re optional, these interviews can be a great opportunity to make a lasting impression, so you’ll want to be ready for common Stanford interview questions.

In this blog, we provide a list of the common questions asked during a Stanford interview, general Stanford interview tips-an overall sense of how to prepare for a Stanford interview. We also provide a set of questions to ask a Stanford interview.

  • Does Stanford Conduct Interviews?
  • Common Interview Questions at Stanford
  • How Does the Alumni Interview Work?
  • Helpful Stanford Interview Tips 
  • What To Ask Your Interviewer
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Takeaways

Does Stanford Conduct Interviews?

Yes, Stanford does conduct interviews, but they’re optional. Not everyone will get the chance to have one since it depends on the availability of alumni interviewers in your area. If you do get offered one, it’s a great opportunity to share more about yourself and learn about Stanford from someone who’s been there. To help you prepare, it’s a good idea to review some common Stanford interview questions so you feel confident going into the conversation. So, while it’s not mandatory, it’s definitely worth taking advantage of if you’re given the chance!

Interview student

If you want, you can choose to have an optional interview with a Stanford alum. Now, if you’re thinking this is your ticket into Stanford, it’s important to know that even a great interview won’t automatically get you in. But it can definitely show how interested you are in the school, and it’s a cool way to learn more about Stanford from someone who’s been through it themselves.

Common Interview Questions at Stanford

Preparing for your Stanford interview can feel a bit nerve-wracking, but remember, it’s more of a conversation than an interrogation. Your interviewer just wants to get to know you better and hear about your passions, experiences, and goals. To help you feel more confident, here are some of the most common Stanford interview questions, along with tips on how to approach them in a way that feels natural and true to who you are. Just be yourself, and use this opportunity to show what makes you a great fit for Stanford!

1. Why Stanford?

What it’s about. This question is designed to see if you’ve thought deeply about why Stanford is the right fit for you. The interviewer wants to know if you’ve researched the school and understand what makes it unique compared to other universities. They’re also looking to see how you plan to contribute to the Stanford community. To prepare for this, it’s helpful to go over common Stanford interview questions so you can articulate your thoughts clearly during the conversation.

How to answer. Be specific! Talk about Stanford’s unique offerings, whether it’s the academic programs, research opportunities, or the vibrant campus culture. For example, you could say:

“I’m really drawn to Stanford because of its entrepreneurial spirit and its strong emphasis on innovation. I’ve always been interested in combining technology and social impact, and the Design Impact program seems like the perfect place to explore that further. I’m also excited about Stanford’s student organizations like BASES, which would allow me to collaborate with peers on creative business ideas. Plus, the campus culture feels like a place where I can thrive academically while staying connected to my community.”

2. Tell me about yourself.

What it’s about. This is one of the Stanford interview questions that might seem simple, but it can actually be one of the trickier ones. The interviewer wants to hear about you, but not just random facts. They’re interested in learning about the parts of your identity that connect to your academic interests and what you’ll bring to the Stanford community.

two females sit across a table; the one in facing the camera is conducting a college interview with the other female

How to answer. Instead of giving a general overview of your life, focus on aspects of yourself that highlight your growth, academic journey, and future goals. Think about how your experiences have shaped who you are as a student and how you plan to contribute to campus life. It’s a great chance to weave together your personal story with your academic and extracurricular passions.

3. What are you passionate about?

What it’s about. Stanford wants to know what truly excites you. This question is about your authentic interests, not necessarily what you think they want to hear. They’re looking for candidates who have genuine enthusiasm for something, whether it’s academic or personal. To prepare, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with common Stanford interview questions, so you can confidently express what you’re passionate about during the interview.

How to answer. Talk about something you’re really passionate about, and don’t hold back your excitement. Show how this passion connects to your life and future goals. For instance:

“I’m passionate about sustainable fashion. It started when I learned about the environmental impact of the fashion industry. I’ve been educating myself on ethical brands and even started a club at my school focused on sustainability in fashion. We host clothing swaps and workshops to teach others how to upcycle their old clothes. At Stanford, I’m excited to get involved with sustainability initiatives and maybe even work with students from the Design School to create innovative solutions for eco-friendly fashion.”

4. What are you curious about?

What it’s about. This is one of the Stanford interview questions that is all about understanding your intellectual curiosity. The interviewer wants to know what excites your mind and what drives you to learn more. While you may be curious about a lot of things, they’re particularly interested in hearing about your academic passions and how those interests might play a role in your college experience.

How to answer. Focus on your academic interests and how they connect with your extracurriculars. Talk about subjects or fields you’re eager to explore further at Stanford and how your curiosity shapes your activities outside the classroom. For example:

Close-up job interview in the office

“I’ve always been fascinated by environmental science, especially how policy and science intersect to create real-world change. I’m looking forward to exploring classes that dive deeper into sustainability and climate policy at Stanford. Outside of class, I’m also curious about how we can raise awareness through different platforms, which is why I took on the role of Editor for my school newspaper. I love the challenge of making complex topics accessible to others and hope to continue doing that at Stanford.”

This shows both your intellectual curiosity and how it connects to your extracurricular pursuits.

5. Tell me about a challenge you’ve faced and how you overcame it.

What it’s about. This is one of the Stanford interview questions that is about your problem-solving skills, resilience, and personal growth. The interviewer wants to see how you handle adversity and bounce back from tough situations. They’re looking to understand your thought process and how you manage challenges—whether in your personal life, academics, or extracurriculars.

How to answer. Choose a challenge that’s meaningful and shows growth. Be honest, but emphasize what you learned. For example:

In my junior year, I struggled with balancing my coursework and leadership in my school’s debate team. There were weeks when I felt overwhelmed, especially when preparing for big competitions. I realized I needed better time management, so I created a more structured schedule, prioritized tasks, and reached out to my teachers and teammates for support. In the end, I learned how to balance multiple responsibilities more effectively, and we ended up placing higher in competitions because I was better able to lead my team.

6. What motivates you to achieve your goals?

What it’s about. This is one of the Stanford interview questions designed to uncover what drives your ambition and work ethic. The interviewer wants to understand the deeper reasons behind your goals—whether they stem from personal experiences, values, or passions. It’s a chance to share what inspires you and keeps you focused on achieving success, both academically and personally.

How to answer. Reflect on the key factors that motivate you, whether it’s a long-term goal, a person who inspires you, or a lesson you’ve learned. Talk about what fuels your drive to succeed and how it shapes your approach to academics and life. For example:

Diverse group of young people chatting in college library

“I’m motivated by the idea of making a positive impact on the environment. Growing up in a coastal town, I’ve seen firsthand the effects of pollution on our oceans, and it’s sparked my passion for environmental activism. My goal is to work on policies that protect our ecosystems, and that’s what pushes me to excel in my studies and stay active in environmental clubs. Knowing that my efforts could lead to real change keeps me focused and determined to reach my goals.”

How Does the Alumni Interview Work?

Stanford’s interviews are done by alumni volunteers, so if there aren’t many in your area, you might not get the chance to interview. If you do, though, an interviewer will usually reach out to you via email to set up a time for a chat, though sometimes you might get a phone call instead. Once they get in touch, they’ll introduce themselves and arrange a time to meet for your Stanford interview. To prepare, it’s helpful to review some common Stanford interview questions so you can feel confident and ready for the conversation.

Who is eligible?

If you’re a first-year applicant attending high school in an area where interviews are available and you’re applying through either Restrictive Early Action (REA) or Regular Decision (RD), you might get an invite for an optional interview.

When is the interview?

If you’re applying through Restrictive Early Action, interviews usually happen during the first few weeks of November. Interviews take place for Regular Decision applicants from early January to mid-February. These timeframes give you a chance to connect with a Stanford alum and share more about yourself outside of the standard application.

It’s important to keep an eye on your email (or sometimes phone) for when an interviewer reaches out. Preparing for potential Stanford interview questions ahead of time can help you feel more confident when discussing your experiences and goals.

Where does the interview take place?

Interviews can be done either in-person or over video chat, depending on what works best for the alumni volunteer interviewer. Stanford’s Admission Office doesn’t prefer one over the other, so it’s really about what’s convenient for you both.

  • In-person. You’ll usually meet up in a public place like a coffee shop, library, or food court—somewhere casual and easy to chat.
  • Video. If it’s online, you and your interviewer will decide on a platform that works for both of you. It could be Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, FaceTime—whatever is easiest.

One thing to note is that interviews aren’t done on Stanford’s campus, so you’ll be meeting or chatting elsewhere.

How will the interviewer reach out?

Your name and contact info will be shared with a Stanford alumni interviewer, who will reach out to you directly using the email or phone number you gave in your application. If you’re offered an interview, be sure to respond quickly, whether you’re accepting or declining the invite. Sometimes interviewers may follow up with a text, phone call, or another email if they don’t hear back from you.

a woman looking calm breathing the air

If you decide to accept the interview, reply to your interviewer as soon as possible to arrange a time and place (or set up a virtual meeting).

Keep in mind that if you attend high school in an area where interviews are available but haven’t been contacted, it’s likely due to the availability of alumni in your region. Interviews typically happen in early November for Restrictive Early Action (REA) and between early January and mid-February for Regular Decision (RD). It can also help to familiarize yourself with Stanford interview questions beforehand to feel more prepared if you do get the chance to meet with an alum.

Lastly, don’t forget to check your spam folder and make sure you’re looking at the email address you provided in your application so you don’t miss any important messages.

What happens after the interview?

Feel free to send a thank-you email to your alumni interviewer after your chat! It’s a nice gesture, but if you have any follow-up questions or need more information, it’s best to direct those to Stanford’s Office of Undergraduate Admission.

They’ll be happy to help!

Helpful Stanford Interview Tips

As you’re getting ready for your Stanford interview, it’s a good idea to keep a few key tips in mind besides just reviewing potential Stanford interview questions. Here are some of our top pointers to help you prepare for your chat with an alumni volunteer:

  • Do your research. Before your interview, spend some time learning about Stanford’s programs, culture, and what makes the school unique. Know why you want to go there specifically, so you can answer “Why Stanford?” with more than just general enthusiasm.
  • Be yourself. The interview is meant to help the school get to know you better. So, relax and let your personality shine through. Don’t try to mold yourself into what you think they want—be authentic and share your true interests and passions.
  • Review common questions. While you won’t know the exact questions ahead of time, having answers ready for common Stanford interview questions like “What are you passionate about?” or “Tell me about a challenge you’ve overcome” will help you feel more prepared.
  • Showcase your curiosity. Stanford loves students who are curious and driven, so talk about what excites you academically and beyond. Whether it’s a specific field of study or an extracurricular activity, show what gets you fired up.
  • Ask thoughtful questions. The interview isn’t just for Stanford to learn about you—it’s also for you to learn about Stanford. Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the school or the alumni’s experience. It shows you’re genuinely interested and engaged.
  • Stay calm and collected. Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember, it’s just a conversation. Take a deep breath, and don’t be afraid to pause and think before answering questions. It’s okay to take your time!

Lastly, make sure you’ve got all the logistics down—whether it’s an in-person meet-up or a virtual interview, have everything set up and ready to go. Good luck, you’ve got this!

What to Ask Your Interviewer

Remember, interviews are a two-way street. While your alumni volunteer will ask you questions, you’ll also have the chance to ask them some during your Stanford interview. It’s a great way to show you’re engaged and genuinely interested in learning more about the university. In addition to preparing for Stanford interview questions, think about what you’d like to ask your interviewer to make the conversation more meaningful.

a woman student wearing a headset while smiling facing her laptop

Not sure what to ask? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. What drew you to Stanford University?

This question helps you understand why your interviewer chose Stanford and might reveal some unique opportunities or benefits you hadn’t considered. Plus, it gives you a chance to hear their personal perspective on what makes the school special.

2. What do you remember most about your time at Stanford?

College life is about more than just classes. Asking this question gives you insight into the experiences that left a lasting impression on your interviewer, and it could help you imagine what your own journey might look like.

3. What did you major in, and how has it helped you in your career?

This is a great way to connect your academic interests to real-world career paths. Hearing how your interviewer transitioned from student life to their professional career can give you valuable insight into how Stanford prepared them for the working world.

These questions will not only help you learn more about Stanford but also show your interviewer that you’re curious and thoughtful about your future!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many Stanford interview questions are typically asked?

Typically, a Stanford interview includes around 3 to 5 main questions, but the number can vary depending on the interviewer and the flow of the conversation. The goal is to explore your experiences, interests, and fit for Stanford in a casual, conversational manner.

2. Does Stanford interview all applicants?

No, Stanford does not interview all applicants. Interviews are offered based on the availability of alumni in your area and are not guaranteed for every applicant.

3. Does being offered an interview guarantee admission to Stanford?

No, being offered an interview does not guarantee admission to Stanford. It is just one part of the application process and is not an indicator of admission decisions.

4. Does being offered an interview mean my application isn’t as strong?

No, being offered an interview does not mean your application isn’t strong. Interviews are based on alumni availability and are not tied to the strength of your application. It’s simply an additional opportunity for Stanford to learn more about you.

Takeaways

Admission interviews are more than a formal requirement. They serve as an opportunity for both the applicant and the interviewer to share perspectives and dive deeper into the school’s community.

  • While it’s important to prepare for common Stanford interview questions, it’s equally crucial to show your authentic self.
  • Interviewers are looking for passion and intellectual curiosity more than “perfect” answers. Expressing genuine enthusiasm about your interests makes you memorable and reflects your potential to contribute to the university community.
  • Interviews give applicants a sneak peek into life at Stanford, especially through the lens of alumni experiences. Asking thoughtful questions about their time at Stanford allows you to envision what your journey might look like and whether the school aligns with your goals.
  • The availability of interviews depends on alumni presence in your area, not the strength of your application. It’s a reminder that if you’re not offered an interview, it doesn’t reflect poorly on your chances of admission.
  • Learn more about how to prepare even better for your Stanford interview. Partner with a college admissions expert and take the interview to a whole new level.

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