I applied in-person. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Rutgers University (New Brunswick, NJ) in Nov 2013
Interview
Fairly simple, got talk to the Prof who like to work with and then if he likes you get to work. As soon as you hear from the guy give him an email saying you would like to meet him in person. It may take a while to get a one on one meeting sometimes be patient. Don't go asking for pay and financial support on first meeting. Work with him for sometime if you are satisfied then request him if he can support you.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
be thorough in basics. Don't try to be smart, be realistic
It was done with multiple professors and administrators from department. It has changed since I started, and the experience for incoming graduate students is more personalized. It is now a longer event and you will be also somewhat interviewed by other students so treat the entire experience as an interview.
Mainly ask about your previous research project. Also try to connect your project with the project the professor is interested in. May also ask basic ML knowledge according to your target professor.
Prettyy good. Depends on who you get. Most professors are good and kind. So nothing to worry I think. Just be ready to talk about undergrad experience and research experience.
