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Interviews are a common component of the admissions process for audiology and speech-language pathology programs. They provide an opportunity to learn more about applicants while assessing communication skills, professionalism, enthusiasm, and the ability to think and respond in real time. Traditionally, interviews have been conducted either in person or through synchronous virtual platforms such as Zoom. While these formats allow direct interaction, they also require significant coordination among applicants, admissions committee members, staff, and interviewers. Scheduling can be challenging, multiple evaluators often need to be available simultaneously, and applicants may need to travel or reserve large blocks of time to participate.

Asynchronous interviews offer an alternative approach. In this format, applicants respond to predetermined interview questions by recording video responses at a time and location convenient for them (Hidalgo Hernandez and Tatem, 2024). This flexibility can reduce scheduling barriers, minimize travel requirements, and provide applicants with greater control over the interview experience.

From an admissions perspective, asynchronous interviews can improve efficiency while maintaining a structured evaluation process. Faculty reviewers can assess responses on their own schedules rather than coordinating participation in live interview sessions. Recorded responses can be reviewed multiple times when clarification is needed, supporting consistency in scoring and decision-making. Programs may choose from a variety of review models, including assigning faculty to score individual questions across all applicants (horizontal review), evaluating complete applicant interviews (vertical review), or using a combination of approaches.

Asynchronous interviews may also support holistic admissions practices by increasing accessibility and reducing barriers for applicants. Because interviews can be completed remotely and on a flexible schedule, applicants are not required to incur travel expenses, miss work, or navigate scheduling conflicts associated with live interviews. This may broaden access for candidates from diverse geographic, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds. In addition, recorded responses allow multiple reviewers to independently evaluate applicants, creating a more comprehensive assessment of communication skills, professionalism, critical thinking, and overall program fit.

Several platforms are available to support asynchronous interviewing. Programs using CSDCAS can integrate Kira Talent directly into their admissions process. Other higher education-focused platforms include Acuity Insights and StandOut, while business-oriented options include Willo, Testlify, and AsyncInterview.

Despite these advantages, programs should consider several potential limitations. Asynchronous interviews do not allow interviewers to ask follow-up questions or applicants to seek clarification. Some applicants may perceive video interviews as less personal or feel disconnected from faculty and the program. Research suggests that clearly communicating the rationale for using asynchronous interviews—such as improved standardization, flexibility, and fairness—can positively influence applicant perceptions (Basch and Melchers, 2019). Programs may also wish to offer supplemental opportunities for interaction, such as virtual open houses or Q&A sessions. Finally, unlike in-person interviews or interviews conducted through existing videoconferencing platforms, asynchronous interview systems typically involve additional costs that should be considered during implementation.

Basch, J., & Melchers, K. (2019). Fair and flexible?! explanations can improve applicant reactions toward asynchronous video interviews. Personnel Assessment and Decisions, 5(3). https://doi.org/10.25035/pad.2019.03.002

Hidalgo Hernandez, Y., & Tatem, G. (2024). Virtual versus In-Person: What Applicants Really Want in the Interview Process. ATS scholar, 5(4), 482–485. https://doi.org/10.34197/ats-scholar.2024-0131ED

Patricia Gaffney, AuD, MPH, BC-VA, DFAAA

CAPCSD Admissions Committee Member

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