Credibility interviews

As part of your application to join us, you might need to attend a short credibility interview. This is to confirm you are a genuine student and will help inform the decision on your visa.

UK Visas and Immigration conduct these interviews when you give your biometric information. They take place face-to-face or on the phone.

The interview will cover your course details, the reasons you want to study with us, your previous immigration history and your finances.

If you're a PhD student, they may ask more in-depth questions about your research.

Example questions

Questions may include:

• Have you had any previous UK visas?
• Have you have ever breached the conditions of your visa, for example, overstaying?
• Have you had any visas for other countries?
• How do your studies fit in with your career plans?
• Why did you choose to study at the University of Portsmouth?
• What do you plan to do once you have finished your studies? Do you plan to do further study, or go into work? If so, how and where?
• Where did you receive your money from?
• How will you fund your studies?
• What is your family’s financial situation?
• If you are a sponsored student, what does your sponsorship cover?

After the interview

Once you've completed your credibility interview, an Entry Clearance Officer will consider your visa application.

If you're successful, you'll get your application documents, including your passport with vignette and your decision letter.