UK Student Visa Credibility Interview – Complete Guidance
As part of the UK Student visa process, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) may conduct interviews to assess whether applicants are genuinely intending to study in the UK. These interviews are selected at random, so being invited to one does not mean there is a problem with your application.
This guide is designed to help students feel more confident and prepared. It includes examples of the types of questions you might be asked. These are not guaranteed questions, nor will they necessarily be asked in a specific order. However, they give a clear idea of the information UKVI is looking for.
The interview is also an opportunity for UKVI to assess your English language ability. If you are having difficulty understanding a question due to accent or connection issues, you may politely ask the interviewer to repeat or speak more clearly.
It is very important to answer all questions honestly. Avoid giving answers you think the interviewer wants to hear—be truthful and authentic.
Intention to Study Questions
Q) Why do you want to study in the UK?
- You might want to talk about what you have learnt about the British education system and how this will enhance your education.
- Why would you like to live and study in the UK and in particular London?
- How will this experience benefit you?
Q) What are the benefits of studying in the UK compared to your home country or other countries?
- What attracted you to the UK?
- How would study in the UK differ from studying in your home country?
- Why did you decide to come to the UK rather than, for example, Australia or the USA?
Q) How did you choose which university to study at in the UK?
- What research did you carry out?
- Have you applied to other universities aside from Arden?
- It’s ok if you have! As much as we’re thrilled to have you join us, the UKVI will expect you to have carried out thorough research on other universities as well.
Q) Did you use an agent? If so, what drew you to their recommendation to study at Arden?
- Is the course that you are going to study particularly well taught at Arden?
Q) Where is Arden University, Stratford Campus?
- Perhaps look at some British websites; do you know where Stratford is?
- See: Welcome to London – visitlondon.com or London student life – UCAS city guides
- Remember the UK is an expensive country. Have you considered this?
Q) Do you know anyone who has studied in London?
- The Home Office would not expect this to be the main reason that you come to London to study, but your friends or family may well have told you more about the city, making your choice easier.
Q) Why did you choose to study this course and how does it relate to your previous study?
- What attracted you to study this course?
- What do you hope to achieve by studying it?
- How will it support your future career plans?
- Did you consider any other course?
Q) How is your course assessed?
- Check the University website
- Is your course assessed by exam, coursework, etc?
Q) Do you know what level your course is?
- Are you studying a Bachelors (BA or BSc) or Masters (MA or MSc)?
- They could also be referring to the RQF level of your course.
- If you will be studying at bachelor’s level, this would be level 6.
- If you will be studying at master’s level, this would be level 7.
- Check your CAS.
Q) Will you need help finding accommodation?
- Have you looked into accommodation options in London?
- Do you know how you will get to the University if you have already found accommodation?
Q) Can you explain any gaps in your years of study or work?
- When was your last course of full-time study?
- What have you been doing since?
- Why do you wish to return to study now?
Q) Do you understand what your responsibilities will be as a Student visa holder?
- Refer to the UKCISA website for guidance on protecting your Student visa status.
Financial Questions
Q) What is your current occupation (if currently employed)?
- How does your chosen course of study relate to the work that you have been doing?
- If it differs greatly, explain why you have made a change.
Q) Do you have relatives who have studied overseas?
- It may be that a family member has studied overseas, and they have recommended this to you.
- If not, explain why you are the first from your family to want to take this route.
- How will study in the UK benefit you?
Q) Who is financing your studies/cost of living in the UK?
- You or your parents?
- If your parents are financing your studies, you may be asked how they are able to do this and how much they earn.
- You may be asked to provide evidence of your sponsor’s financial details.
Q) Are your documents verifiable?
- If the Home Office contacts the school, college, or bank that produced the documentation submitted, are they contactable?
- Do you foresee any issues in the Home Office contacting the institution?
- If so, have a covering letter ready with contact details.
Q) Would you be able to pay your tuition fees in one full amount?
- If not, what arrangements have you made to ensure that you can pay at the appropriate times?
Q) Do you know how much your living expenses will be?
- You may be asked about general living expenses while studying in the UK. Hint: Check from UKVI website. https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information--Advice/Studying--living-in-the-UK/How-much-will-it-cost-to-study-in-the-UK
Living Expenses
International students in the UK should budget around £1,100-£1,400 monthly outside London and £1,300-£1,600+ in London, covering rent, food, transport, and personal items, with major costs being accommodation and the required visa proof of funds (£1,171/month outside London, £1,529/month in London for up to 9 months). Your actual costs vary by city (Sheffield, Nottingham cheaper; London pricier) and lifestyle, but shared housing and cooking at home save money.