Virtual interviews use Skype video calls and last 20 to 30 minutes, the same as in-person interviews. Interviews, real or virtual, are treated as the same in the evaluative process. The online interviews are similar to what would take place if students were sitting in the admissions office.

“While a personal visit is the first choice, the virtual interview is an innovative way to use technology to connect individually with those who, because of financial or other reasons, cannot come to campus,” said Martha Allman, director of admissions at Wake Forest. “This combines Wake Forest’s historic commitment to personal attention with our emphasis on technological innovation.”

Skype is a time and money saving technology enabling applicants and admission officers to get to know each other better. This practice will spread to other universities soon.