Interviews

Fall 2024 First-Year & Transfer Applicants 

Occidental has reached capacity for interview requests and the interview request form is now closed for all applicants.

Please note that applicants will not be penalized in the admissions process if they do not have the opportunity to interview. 

Fall 2025 First-Year and Spring 2025 Transfer Applicants 

We look forward to learning more about you through an Oxy interview. Interviews are conducted by alumni volunteers and current students so you will also be able to ask your questions about the Oxy experience during the interview process—it's a win-win! Interviews are available starting in August 2024. 

Applicants are also welcome to submit a 90-second introduction video through a partnership with Glimpse by Initialview in lieu of an interview. Glimpse allows students to record a 90-second introduction video and submit this video to dozens of colleges with the click of a button. Your recording does not need to be extensively rehearsed or polished, and the video does not need to be edited. There is a small fee to use Glimpse, but fee waivers are extended to students with significant financial need. More information about Glimpse can be found here. 

Please note that applicants will not be penalized in the admissions process if they do not have the opportunity to interview. 

Helpful Interview Tips:

• Dress comfortably but appropriately.
• Come prepared to discuss your talents, interests and goals. It’s your chance to show us the real person behind your application credentials.
• Familiarize yourself with Oxy. We’ll want to hear what sparked your interest in the College and how you see yourself thriving in our community.
• We don't expect you to have all the answers, so be open with your thoughts and ask questions.
• Most importantly, just be yourself.

Additional Tips for Virtual Interviews:

• Find a quiet area where you will not be interrupted or have background noise.
• Please reach out to us in advance of your interview if you expect any difficulty accessing a quiet space, internet, or technology. We are happy to brainstorm and accommodate individual solutions, depending on your needs.
• Check your surroundings before you begin video chatting to ensure there is nothing on the walls or shown in the video frame that is inappropriate. A well-lit area is recommended.
• Please wear appropriate attire, just as you would for an in-person interview.