When prepping for your college interview, it’s essential to do your research. What specifics about your future college will your interviewer be wowed by? How well can you articulate your singular hook? Do you have any questions you are going to ask your interviewer? Also the practical stuff: where and when is your interview? Who is your interviewer, and what is their relationship with your prospective school? And last, but certainly not least, the age-old question: what should you wear!?

We’re so glad you asked! When it comes to college interview outfits, the key is to keep them professional, simple, and above all, comfortable. The less attention your clothes draw from your interviewer, the better. This is not the time to pull out a starched family heirloom that itches like crazy just to impress your interviewer. Nor should you place comfort above all else and show up in your pajamas. It’s essential to balance these extremes to give your best go at this necessary evil of the elite college application process. Remember, comfort breeds confidence, and confidence is key in any interview.

Read on to discover the appropriate attire for your college interviews, whether you’re a man, woman, or non-binary applicant. Remember, the dress code is not a rigid set of rules, but rather a set of guidelines to help you present your best self. So, feel free to express your individuality within these boundaries.

What Men Should Wear to a College Interview

Back in the day (when kids were still allowed to be kids!), many would attend college interviews in tank tops and sandals. For better or for worse, the times have changed. Men and boys must dress formally for their college interviews. Note, we’re not saying you should show up in a suit and tie — that’s undoubtedly overdoing it (unless that’s your everyday attire, in which case have at it!). But a pressed shirt, dress pants, and neat appearance will go a long way. Think of your interview as a first date. You can still dress like you, but just snazz it up.

Stick to neutral colors, no offensive imagery or flashy brands, and simple silhouettes. Try on your fit a day beforehand to ensure there are no stains, crinkles, or uncomfortable spots. It will tell in your interview performance if you’re uncomfortable in your own clothes! And nowadays, with most interviews conducted virtually, it’s important to remember that even though the interviewer may only see the upper half of your body, you should still dress professionally from head to toe. This not only shows respect for the interview process but also helps you feel more confident and prepared. No pajamas — just in case!

What Women Should Wear to a College Interview

Many women (and men, for that matter) take pride in their appearance as an expression of their individuality. If this describes you, have fun with your interview outfit. Make sure whatever you wind up in is professional, inoffensive, comfortable, and neat. Perhaps you throw on that cute sundress that never fails you. Or you can mix a white T-shirt with a navy blazer and pencil skirt. If slacks are more your style, pair them with a neutral sweater or cardigan. 

Women have a little more liberty than men to think outside of the box, but it’s still important to stick to relatively formal attire that doesn’t draw too much attention. Make sure you’re wearing the clothes, not the other way around! Dress as you would at a fancy restaurant, and be sure to cover all your bases even if your interview is being conducted virtually — you never know if you might have to stand up halfway through your interview to let your dog out of the room or something.

What Nonbinary Applicants Should Wear to a College Interview

The rules are precisely the same for nonbinary and gender-nonconforming applicants. Formal attire that you feel at home in and doesn’t rock the boat too much. Feel free to draw from both guidelines outlined above and create a style that works for you. If your gender expression is a fundamental aspect of who you are (especially who you are on your application), don’t be afraid to wear something that speaks to your unique experience, as long as it would be appropriate to wear to an internship, recital, or formal family gathering.

Ivy Coach’s Interview Prep

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