How you dress for a college scholarship interview is as important as how well you fill out the application and answer the essay question. The interview is your first chance to make an impression based on how you carry yourself and not just how smart you are. Think of the college scholarship interview as a job interview and dress for success.

General Dress Rules

• Spend a few days finding one or two interview outfits. Mix and match different clothes in your closet or shop around for dress clothes.
• Make sure whichever outfit you choose fits well and doesn’t hang loosely off your body. Double-check the clothes for holes, tears or snags.
• Choose an outfit in a neutral or subdued color such as beige, cream, black or navy blue. Pick dress shoes that match or compliment the color of your outfit.

How Men Should Dress

• Go to a college scholarship interview wearing a dress shirt, slacks, tie and dress shoes. A jacket isn’t necessary unless you want one. Make sure your shoes are free from scuffs and scratches.
• Leave hats, flip-flops and graphic T’s at home. Remove excess piercings and hide extra large tattoos.
• Keep your hairstyle simple. College scholarship boards aren’t impressed with the grunge look or the over styled look.

How Women Should Dress

• Decide between a dress or a suit. A dress or suit skirt should hit at the knee or right above it. If you choose a pantsuit, look for pinstripes, which give you a tailored look and can add some color to your outfit.
• Pick shoes with a closed toe and low heel. Keep the shoe color neutral and the design conservative. Don’t choose shoes with rhinestones or 6-inch heels.
• Style your hair either up or down and wear it conservatively. So you’re not uncomfortable with your appearance, don’t make any drastic color or style changes before your scholarship interview.
• Remove any piercings other than your ears and keep the rest of your jewelry toned down. One necklace and a ring are enough accessories.
• Stay away from trendy clothes for the college scholarship interview. Leave mini-skirts, leggings, tank tops, strapless shirts and low-cut blouses at home. The only suitable tank or strapless tops are ones worn under a suit jacket and made from a dressy material.