How likely will I be accepted

[ceedubbya]

Hello everyone. First post here! So I got invited to an interview at one of my top choice schools for a PhD in bioengineering. The invitation was sent by email by my POI at the university and was cc'd to the department chair. The email essentially says that she has reviewed my application and thinks I am excellent candidate for the program and that they would like me to come for a campus visit/interview. I haven't interviewed yet, but I am currently in contact with my POI to set up a time for my visit. My question is this... How likely is it that I will be/already have been accepted into the program? I've read a few of the other threads with similar questions and it seems like the answer is "most likely" as long as I don't totally biff the interview. However, based on people's past experiences and what has been said in the email what do you guys think? Thanks for all the help!

 

Also, as sort of a side note. I was wondering what I should wear to the interview. Are we talking shirt/tie or whole suit?

[iphi]

Well it sounds like an interview, so the answer is "maybe". The fact that you got the interview has upped your chances, but is nowhere near a "sure thing". Not really sure why you think it is? They probably don't know yet either - it depends on how the interview goes.

[sunpenguin]

It really depends on the program. There may be a few out there that have close to a 100% acceptance rate after the interview, but I've been to two now and can tell you the statistics. One of the programs where I've interviewed plans to offer places next year to about two-thirds of the people who interviewed. The other is a smaller program and plans to offer spots to only about one-third of the interviewees. They've both made it clear that they would love to admit everyone who was invited but that space and funding limitations mean that isn't possible.

[darwingirl]

Some of the interviews I've been to in the past were the kind where pretty much everyone was accepted and they told us that when we got there. (One example was Michigan State). Sometimes that is not the case though. Another interview I've attended told us up front that only 50% would be admitted.

 

So basically, I think they will tell you once you get there. 

 

Good luck!

[ceedubbya]

Hey everyone. Thanks for the replies. I understand. I will definitely not go into the interview thinking I am accepted. I guess I was just a little excited hehe. Anyways, I better start doing my homework on the program!