I applied online. The process took 4 months. I interviewed at Rice University in Apr 2013
Interview
A professor called me on my landline. She first introduced herself, then talked about Rice and then her own research. After a nice introduction, she asked me several questions on my bachelor studies and the research I had done so far. From her questions, I understood that she was trying to make sure that I had a clear conception on my research objectives. Later she explained what should I expect during a Ph.D. program at Rice University. The interviewer was nice and thorough.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Basic questions on semiconductor physics (since I applied for ECE dept - Nano).
Some concepts on nanophotonics (that was my intended research area).
Details about my 4th year project and my publications. Asked technical questions during my explanations.
Future plan and goals.
Why I chose Rice University?
Admission is based on essays, resume, transcript; for some departments an interview is required and for others interviews are not required. You also get the chance to visit the university in an accepted students' weekend.
I applied in-person. The process took 5 months. I interviewed at Rice University (Houston, TX) in Aug 2011
Interview
scheduling an appointment with PI (Principle Investigator) and having a meeting in his or her office. For some departments the PIs will assign a qualification project to test the abilities of students on problem solving, taking challenges and presentation skills.
Interview questions [3]
Question 1
The questions are about the students interest in research groups. Such as any specific projects they are interested into and what abilities they have which is making the interested.
