How likely is it to get in after an interview?

[overgraduate]

I had a phone interview with my potential advisor last Monday, it went pretty well, but I still haven't heard anything back.

Now I don't know if at the point of the interview, the Prof just wants to make sure the student isn't too awckward of an individual and can speak english, or if there is still some sorting between the students who made it to the interview?

Since people can decline an offer, shouldn't Profs maximize their chances of getting a new student by offering admission to more people?

[hitomimay]

I have to say it truly depends on the program. Most honest answer is that an interview means certainly you've made the short list, so congratulations for making it thus far.

However, it is no guarantee for an admission.

The program that accepted me conducted 3 separate interviews with me. I know of multiple people on GradCafe who have had an equal number of interviews, yet they have been waitlisted or even rejected despite everything.

I'd say celebrate what you've accomplished so far, and just be a little wary. All the same, congrats again and good luck.

[Fidelio]

Agreed. I did two interviews and got accepted by the school I've heard back from, and my wife did three with the same school but was denied. We're sort of trying to figure out what happened there, but no matter what, it's definitely true that you've made the short list!

OT: hitomimay, are you going to the USC new admits thing in March? Maybe I'll see you there!

[hitomimay]

@Fidelio: congrats on your USC acceptance! I'm going to PM you really quick since it'll deviate from the OP's discussion topic.

[overgraduate]

Thanks for the info.

Still nothing...

Do you think I should at least expect an email from the Prof saying that I am rejected? given that we have talked?

[Fidelio]

I'm sure you'll hear something. Maybe not from the prof, but somebody will get in touch with you to let you know the decision. Waiting sucks, but I think that's all there is to do.

[busybee3]

Did the professor tell you there might be a long wait before hearing additional news? I've had to wait a long time after interviews, but I was informed that weeks may pass before the program would make a decision. It doesn't make the wait any easier, but at least it's expected.

[goldentime]

I had an interview last month, and it really went well... Today, I received another interview from the admission committee...it says it is just a ten-minite interview, much shorter than I had with my potential supervisor...

I don't know whether it means bigger possibility...

[overgraduate]

Next time my last question will be "when do you plan on responding to me?", because here I am clearly inefficient and I can't do anything else, just waiting and waiting,,,

Is it a good idea to send the Prof an email and ask for news 2 weeks after the interview?

[hitomimay]

Here's my two cents: I wouldn't recommend asking the professor for news. It may seem a little pushy. Adcom and faculty are definitely overwhelmed and busy, and I guarantee they are not being idle, so they may be a little annoyed. Either way, you don't want to tack on a negative impression, especially while they might be trying to decide who to admit and who to reject on the short list...

I know the waiting sucks, it does for everyone, but as we all know, the news will come when the news will come. Chin up, I'm sure good news awaits!

Edited February 10, 2012 by hitomimay

[overgraduate]

Thanks for your advice.

Still, I'm thinking that asking for an update should not hurt my chances of getting in if they want me.

Maybe it would even increase my chances by renewing my interest in working with them?

If they put me on a waitlist and wait for someone else's response, or if they are deciding between me and someone else, you're saying an email might hurt my application, but is there a chance it actually helps it?

Sorry for asking again, it's been two weeks today and still no response...

Edited February 14, 2012 by overgraduate