Glimpse Videos…Your FAQs Answered

Glimpse videos are short, typically 60–90 second videos, submitted as part of a college application. In the age of AI, they are becoming increasingly popular among college admissions offices, with more requesting this new “optional” application material each year. Unlike traditional essays or recommendation letters, videos give admissions officers a chance to see and hear from you directly, offering a multidimensional perspective on who you are beyond grades and test scores. While there are many platforms that you can use to create a short video to send to colleges, some colleges have started offering an optional Glimpse video submission as part of their application process, while others provide opportunities for video interviews or creative video responses to prompts.

Either way, it looks like Glimpse Videos are only going to become more prominent in the college applications process. So, here we answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about Glimpse College Application Videos:

Glimpse Video FAQs

Where do I make a Glimpse Video
Glimpse is part of a company called Initial View. Follow this link: Glimpse Videos

Can I edit my Glimpse?
Glimpse does not allow for the use of any production or editing processes or programs, so that admissions officers can gain as unfiltered a “view” of the applicant as possible.

Can I re-record my Glimpse?
You can delete and re-record your Glimpse. However, if you already sent your Glimpse to colleges, it is locked, with one exception. Glimpse provides a one-time only option to re-record your video to send to more colleges. But this process is only available by request by emailing the company at glimpse@initialview.com.

Can I submit multiple Glimpse videos to a college?
No. You can only submit one video per college.

Can I send my Glimpse video to multiple colleges?
Yes, this is a nice part of the service. Similar to the Common App, you make one Glimpse video and then can send it to as many colleges as you want. Note that you will need your Common App ID to link the video to your application within admissions.

How much does Glimpse cost?
Glimpse costs $22.00 With that fee, you can send your video to an unlimited number of colleges. Fee waivers are available.

When should I submit my Glimpse video?
For the colleges that offer Glimpse videos as an optional requirement, there may be a specific deadline, so follow those guidelines. If there is not a request or deadline, try and submit your video within one week of submitting your application.

How do I send my Glimpse to colleges?
After recording your Glimpse, you can select the college that you would like to receive your video. Glimpses will be sent to your selected colleges via the InitialView platform, which is already integrated into the application portal for many colleges and universities.

A Glimpse video can be a very important addition to your college application. If you want help creating yours, contact us for expert guidance!