If you are an international student applying for a UK Tier 4 student visa you may be required by UK Visa and Immigration (UK VI) to attend a credibility interview. It is an integral part of your visa application process as it’s the verification that you are a genuine student with the intent to study in the UK.
This interview will most likely take place in either the visa application centre or the British Embassy and will be around 5 – 10 minutes. You’ll be sent a video link by UK Visa and Immigration (UK VI), before hand with instructions on the time and place of the interview.
A recording of your video interview will then be sent to an Entry Clearance Officer who will access your application. This will also been kept on file in case of a request for reassessment. UK VI may require more information and if they do you, may receive a request for a second interview.
Possible questions – The interview will focus on verifying your intent to solely study in the UK. Here are some of the topic we feel UK VI will cover:
- Your name and date of birth
- About your university and its location
- About your chosen course and the course start date
- Reasons for choosing the course and university
- Why you choose the UK to study
If the interviewer may ask additional questions. i.e:
- Your academic history, future plans (eg. what you plan to do after finishing your course), immigration history, finances (eg. how do you plan to cover your study cost and living expenses in the UK) and personal background (eg. whether you will be bringing your family with you or not)
- Where will you live during your studies
- Travel plans in the UK while studying
- How will your chosen course help you in the future
- How does your current chosen course connect to your previous studies
- Why you think spending large amount to study in the UK is worthy
- Reason for returning to study if you had your last course long time ago
Helpful tips – Here are a few tips to prepare you for the interview.
- There are a variety of resources available in print, online and video that have valuable tips.
- Do a few practice interviews with your family and friends both face to face and on Skype.
- Some universities may offer practice interview sessions via Skype, so ask in advance.
- Arrive early to the venue of your interview.
- Dress properly and behave appropriately during the interview.
- UK VI will double check your details so always provide accurate and detailed answers.
- Make sure to mention if you’re experiencing any technical issues as in hearing the interviewer. Your communication skills are being accessed so it’s important to give yourself a fair chance.
- Make sure you attend your scheduled interview as failure to do so without reason may lead to visa refusal.
- Most of all relax and be yourself.
What to do if your visa is refused – Failing the credibility interview as a result of unsatisfactory answers or unacceptable level of your English skills assessed during the interview is a ground for refusal of your visa. If your student visa application is denied based on the interview result you may request for a administrative review. You must submit your request for review within 28 days from the date of the refusal notice. You also must inform your university immediately if your visa is refused.
Interested in studying abroad? Please feel free to get in touch with us through via email info@studyconnect-uk.co.uk.
