If you thought your offer letter was the final hurdle, think again. In 2025, UK universities are increasingly conducting credibility interviews before issuing a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies). And yes, that interview could determine whether you get your student visa.
Why? Because UKVI holds universities accountable for every student they sponsor. A student who drops out, works illegally, or fails to secure a visa can impact the university’s compliance record. So universities are doing their due diligence upfront—and that includes speaking to you directly.
What Exactly Is a Credibility Interview?
A credibility interview is a short conversation—usually via video call—with a university staff member or an outsourced verification partner. It’s not an interrogation, but it’s definitely an evaluation.
The goal? To ensure you are:
- Genuine about studying in the UK
- Prepared academically, financially, and emotionally
- Aligned with the course and career path you’ve chosen
Some universities conduct this interview before issuing a CAS, while others may do it as part of the application process.
Why Are UK Universities Doing This?
It all comes down to CAS limits and compliance. UKVI expects universities to:
- Keep visa refusal rates under 10% (possibly lowering to 5% soon)
- Ensure students complete their courses
- Avoid enrolling students who come with migration intent
If too many sponsored students fail to meet these expectations, the university risks:
- CAS allocation cuts
- Sponsor licence suspension
- Public scrutiny
So yes, they need to be careful—and the credibility interview is their filter.
Common Credibility Interview Questions
While no two interviews are exactly alike, here are some frequently asked questions students should be prepared for:
Academic & Course-Related
- Why did you choose this course?
- Why this university?
- How does this course align with your past academic or work background?
- What are the modules you’ll study?
- How will this course help in your career?
Financial Readiness
- Who is funding your education?
- Can you explain how you’ll pay your tuition and living costs?
- Have you paid any part of your tuition fee already?
- Where will you stay in the UK?
Post-Study Intentions
- What are your plans after graduation?
- Do you plan to return to your home country?
- What kind of job roles are you targeting after your course?
Awareness & Preparedness
- How did you apply for the course?
- Do you know about UK visa rules and the 18-month Graduate Route?
- Are you aware of your right to work part-time (20 hrs/week)?
If you struggle to answer any of these—or sound memorised—the university may mark your case as high risk.
What Happens If You “Fail” the Interview?
This is crucial. If the university finds you unprepared, inconsistent, or unclear:
- They may withhold your CAS
- Your application may be deferred or rejected
- It may impact your visa approval chances later
The credibility interview is more than a formality. It’s a gate.
How Erudmite Helps You Prepare
At Erudmite, we don’t believe in coaching you to “sound smart.” We help you be clear, honest, and confident—because that’s what matters most.
We support you by:
- Helping you pick the right course that aligns with your CV
- Reviewing your SOP and ensuring your story is consistent
- Conducting mock interviews with real questions asked by UK universities
- Giving you feedback on body language, tone, and clarity
- Preparing your documents so there’s no mismatch with your answers
The goal isn’t to get you through the interview. It’s to ensure you deserve the offer you’re aiming for.
A Real-World Case
We recently worked with a student from the UAE who had excellent academics but fumbled during their first credibility interview because they hadn’t reviewed the course modules.
After a session with Erudmite:
- They were able to articulate how the course aligned with their career plan
- They passed their second interview
- They secured CAS and their visa
We don’t do magic. We do preparation.
Final Thought
A credibility interview is not about sounding perfect—it’s about sounding real.
In a system where universities are held accountable for every student they sponsor, your clarity is your strength. And at Erudmite, we help you find that clarity.
Let’s make sure your application doesn’t just look good on paper—but holds up under real questions.
FAQs
- Is the credibility interview conducted by UKVI?
No, it’s conducted by the university or its verification partner before they issue CAS. - Is it mandatory for all students?
No, but it’s increasingly common—especially for students from high-risk countries or courses with high drop-out rates. - How long does the interview last?
Typically 15–30 minutes. - Will I get a second chance if I fail?
That depends on the university. Some allow re-interviews, others may not. - Should I memorise answers?
Absolutely not. Universities look for honest, thought-through responses. - Do I need to know every module in my course?
You should at least be aware of the main ones. Not knowing anything is a red flag. - What if I’m nervous?
That’s normal. Practise with Erudmite and you’ll gain confidence. - Can Erudmite Guarantee I’ll Pass?
No. But we’ll give you the tools, insight, and training to make sure you’re as prepared as possible.
