About UK University Credibility Interview

The students who are applying to study in the United Kingdom from a high-risk country will have to participate in a UK credibility interview as well. This kind of interview ensures that only genuine students likely to complete their course receive a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK in their future. So, the credibility interview is an integral part of the university’s decision to issue a Confirmation of Acceptance to Study (CAS) letter, which students will be needing to apply for a visa to study. Moreover, Studying overseas is a big commitment. As the university wants to know that students have done the right research before making such a big decision altogether. So, even if students don’t have to take the credibility interview, preparing for it can actually help with their visa interview as a whole. So, while it can seem intimidating, there are ways by which students can prepare for the UK credibility interview and pass it with flying colors as well.

• Is it essential to Complete a UK Credibility Interview?

As we know, In the past, the UK universities have seen individuals posing as students come to the UK intending to work rather than study merely. So, Upon arrival in the UK, they either fail to register at the university or register and don’t attend class properly. Thus, the UK credibility interview helps a university determine whether students' intentions to study in the UK are genuine or not.

• How the Credibility Interview Take Place?

1. It starts with the university’s admissions office will reach out to schedule an interview.

2. So, After issuing a conditional offer too.

3. Also, Six months before the course start date, based on the university’s availabilities.

4. So, If for some reason students cannot attend the interview, be sure to let the university know as soon as possible to allow sufficient time for it to be rescheduled accordingly.

• The entire Interview Format--

As far as the UK credibility interview is considered, it is a 20 to 30-minute one-on-one interview between students and a representative from the university admissions office internally. So, the questions will vary by university.  Also, Depending on COVID-19 restrictions, it could be either as follows-

1. It can be Face-to-face.

2. It can be over the phone or a video platform, such as Skype or Zoom.

3. It can be by the university will tell students in advance which method they will use actually.

So, the credibility interview also allows the university to gauge their communication skills. So, With that in mind, students should speak clearly and concisely, but not rush their responses. So, If students feel that the interviewer is speaking too quickly then they can ask them to slow down or repeat their questions accordingly.

• What the University is actually seeking--

1. Usually, the university wants to know more about students, Immigration history in the UK and other countries mainly.

2. Their Education history and plans for study and post-study

3. Their personal and financial circumstances as well.

4. Moreover, the Reasons for coming to the UK and choosing that particular university.

• The students should know How to Prepare--

Following are a few tips that will help you ace the UK credibility interview-

1.  Firstly, Avoid Generic Answers merely.

2. Secondly, Avoid vague responses. Make sure you speak specifically about the course and how it aligns with your goals properly.

3. Also, Know Your Responsibilities as a Tier 4 Visa Holder.

4. So, You should review your responsibilities as a Tier 4 visa holder before the interview. This information can be found on the UK Council of International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website as well.

5. Students should Understand the Program Content too.

6. Commonly, Your answers should demonstrate your knowledge of the program’s content, especially the names of course modules. So, Review the course information in case the interviewer asks you about it normally.

7. Basically, Avoid Discussing Dual Intentions mostly.

As the UK plans to launch a post-study work visa in Summer 2021. So, avoid discussing any plans for living and working in the UK after you graduate actually. As it may be a red flag to the university that your intentions are not genuine or Proper.

• Communicate Course Motivation--

Students should Demonstrate their motivation for enrolling in the course and how it will help set you up for future success actually. So, Think of it as a job interview, and establish a five-year career plan, which should include pursuing a career in their home country accordingly.

• Explaining Financially backgrounds--

It’s important to speak to how students will support themselves financially while studying in the UK. Also, students will need to know the amount they will require each year and the cost of their accommodations and other living expenses. So, Although they can work a part-time job under a Tier 4 visa and students should not be relying on that income for their maintenance funds actually. So, If a family member intends to support them, they should know how they earn a living and their yearly income in detail.

•  Common Typical Questions--

Though questions vary by university, the following are some typical questions the university may ask during the credibility interview as follows--

1. They can ask, Can you please provide a brief about yourself?

2. They usually ask, Why do you want to study in the UK rather than your home country or another country?

3. They can ask, Why this specific university over other options?

4. They ask about, What is the location of the university?

5. They can ask, What are your course modules?

6. They ask, How many credits are required to complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree?

7. They usually ask, What are the tuition fees for the course you have chosen?

8. They ask, Who will fund your studies?

9. They ask, Can you tell me how much your living expenses will be?

10. They can ask, What is the annual income of your parents?

11. They ask, What have you been doing during your study gap?

12. They usually ask, What will you do after completing your studies in the UK?

13. They can ask, Do you have any previous visa refusals?

14. They ask about, What are the facilities of the university, and what is the university’s ranking?

Therefore, students should be aware of each and every aspect and answer accordingly, and be prepared accordingly.

Reference- https://www.admissionsoverseas.com/index.php/blogs/item/24-quis-nostrud-exerci-tation-ipsum-dolor-sit-amet