Prep School Interviews: What Admissions Really Listen For
The prep school interview can quietly decide whether an application moves forward or stalls out. We touched on this when we sat down with Jeff Quebec, an educational consultant who has worked closely with prep schools and families navigating admissions for years, and who understands exactly how schools interpret these conversations.
This is especially helpful for student-athletes and parents going through the prep school process for the first time, where uncertainty around what to say, how to present yourself, and what questions matter most can create unnecessary mistakes.
Why Prep School Interviews Matter More Than Families Realize
Cory:
“From your perspective, how important is the interview piece in the prep school admissions process?”
Jeff:
“It’s hugely important. In some cases it can be the deciding factor. Schools want to see how a student communicates, how self-aware they are, and whether they actually want to be there.”
Jeff:
“The interview is where schools figure out if the student is driving this process or if it’s really the parents.”
Avoid Sounding Scripted Or Robotic
Jeff:
“One of the biggest mistakes students make is sounding rehearsed. Admissions people can tell immediately when answers are overly scripted.”
Jeff:
“They’re not looking for perfect answers. They’re looking for honest answers that show some personality and thought.”
Jeff:
“If it feels like a robot response, it works against you.”
High-level competition and in-game moments that prepare athletes for the next level.
What Prep Schools Want To Hear From Students
Jeff:
“Schools want to hear why this specific school makes sense for the student, not just that it’s a good school.”
Jeff:
“They’re listening for curiosity, motivation, and whether the student understands what the environment will demand.”
Jeff:
“It’s about fit. Does this kid actually want this experience, or are they just checking a box?”
The Right Questions To Ask During A Prep School Interview
Daily skill work and competitive reps are where real development begins.
Cory:
“What about questions? What separates good questions from bad ones?”
Jeff:
“Good questions show that the student has done some research and is thinking about daily life at the school.”
Jeff:
“Asking questions that you could easily find on the website isn’t a great look.”
Jeff:
“The best questions are about academics, expectations, support systems, and what success looks like at the school.”
Strong academic habits off the court support success on it.
Parent Involvement: When It Helps And When It Hurts
Jeff:
“When parents dominate the interview or step in too much, it sends the wrong message.”
Jeff:
“Schools want to know the student can advocate for themselves and handle independence.”
Jeff:
“It’s okay for parents to be involved, but the student has to be the primary voice.”
Interview Takeaway: Preparation Without Overcoaching
Academic achievement is the foundation that carries athletes beyond the court.
The goal of a prep school interview isn’t perfection. It’s clarity, honesty, and showing that the student understands what they’re stepping into and actually wants the opportunity.
If you’re looking into prep school, reach out to us at PREP Athletics. We’re here to help you explore your potential and make choices that align with your athletic and academic future. We’ve also got a long list of resources to get you started in the right direction, so check out our latest prep basketball updates on YouTube or our podcast to dive deeper.