Attending a credibility interview when applying for a student visa

Interview format

The interviewer will be a member of UKVI staff.

The interview can last up to ten minutes. It will be in person, or through a video or phone call. 

The interview isn’t usually recorded in audio or video format but the person asking the questions will record a typewritten transcript. 

Preparing for the interview

Before the interview, you should:

• Read the personal statement you provided when you applied for your course.
• Visit your course webpage to read about your modules and how they will be assessed.
• Go to the University website to read about the range of facilities available to students.
• Do some research to learn more about Scotland and the town of St Andrews.
• Know how much money you need to live in the UK. The cost of living is higher than the maintenance funds you are required to show. For guidance, visit the British Council's information on budgeting.
• Know that you cannot rely on part-time work in the UK to pay for your studies and expenses. You should be aware of the restrictions on your working hours.
• Find out about accommodation and transport options in St Andrews and towns nearby, and how much they cost.
• Think about your career goals and how this course will help you achieve them.
• Know what you plan to do when you graduate, and how much money you expect to earn when you go back to your home country.

Answering interview questions

You must be able to give full and detailed answers. The interviewer will not ask for more information if your answer is too short or general. You will be expected to:

• Explain clearly how you reached the decision to come to the UK.
• Explain why you chose the University of St Andrews when similar courses are available in other parts of the UK and in your home country.
• Be clear about how your course fits in with previous studies.
• Explain any gaps in your education.
• Know about:
  • your course and the modules available
  • why the course is suitable for you
  • the University of St Andrews and the facilities available.

If you ask the interviewer to repeat or rephrase a question, this will be recorded in the transcript, but you can explain why you asked for this. 

If you have technical problems or cannot hear the interviewer, you must tell them immediately.

The interviewer should ask at the end of the interview whether you have anything to add and whether you are happy with the way the interview has been carried out.

English language skills

The interview gives the UKVI an opportunity to assess your English language ability and decide if your English language skills are sufficient for studying in the UK. The services of an interpreter will be offered but, unless you are being admitted to study an English language course, you are expected to answer all the questions without the use of an interpreter. 

Visa decision after the interview

You will not receive a decision on your application at the interview. 

The person making the decision on your visa application will consider the interview transcript, your visa application form, and your supporting documents. 

The interviewer will make an initial assessment on whether you are a genuine student. 

The interviewer will then share the typewritten transcript with an entry clearance caseworker who will decide whether to approve your application or invite you to a second interview. 

Second interview

If you are asked to attend a second interview, this may be longer than the first. 

You may be asked to give more detail about your answers from your first interview and your application form, and they may ask about the documents you submitted as evidence.

The interview may focus on your finances and how you will pay for your living arrangements.