What International Students Need to Know Before Their Interview
Planning to study in the UK? Many universities now require a Pre-CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) interview before issuing the CAS letter. This step is not merely a formality — it’s an essential checkpoint to assess your academic intent, language proficiency, and overall credibility as a genuine student.
At Velynt Global, we have helped hundreds of students successfully clear their Pre-CAS interviews through structured training and real-time mock sessions. This guide outlines what to expect and how to prepare effectively.
Why the Pre-CAS Interview Matters
UK universities conduct Pre-CAS interviews to:
- Verify your genuine interest in your chosen course and institution.
- Evaluate your clarity of purpose and career plans.
- Ensure you’re financially and academically prepared for your studies.
- Identify any red flags that may impact your visa outcome.
Failure to perform well may result in delays, refusal of CAS, or additional screening by compliance officers.
What Kind of Questions Can You Expect?
Interviewers typically focus on:
What research you’ve done about the city, the university, and the academic structure.
Why you chose your course and this specific university.
What your future plans are after graduation.
Who is funding your studies and how you intend to manage expenses.
How your past academic and professional background aligns with your course.
What research you’ve done about the city, the university, and the academic structure.
Important Technical Guidelines for Your Interview
Whether it’s a live Pre-CAS Interview or an AI-recorded Kira or CAS Shield interview, technical setup matters as much as content. Here’s what you need to know:
- Look directly at the camera or screen throughout the interview.
- Use a wired headset or earphones. Avoid Bluetooth devices due to potential lag between audio and lip movement.
- Ensure a quiet, distraction-free background with no noise or interruptions.
- Use a strong Wi-Fi connection. Avoid mobile phones and mobile data networks.
- Keep your original passport with you at all times.
- Do not keep books, written notes, or any reference material nearby. Even subtle eye or head movements can be flagged.
- Never attempt to cheat — interviews are recorded and thoroughly reviewed.
- For Kira or CAS Shield formats, you will first complete an audio/video system check followed by test questions before the actual interview starts.
- Each question will appear for about 30 seconds, then the answer timer (usually 60 to 120 seconds) will begin. There are no retakes or “back” buttons.
- If you miss a question, remain calm and move on to the next. Your overall performance is what matters.
Kira & CAS Shield Interviews: What Makes Them Different?
Unlike traditional interviews, these formats are fully automated, AI-monitored, and video-recorded. They assess:
- Communication clarity and fluency
- Confidence and body language under timed conditions
- Consistency in your academic and career goals
- Authenticity of responses with no second chances
Why Mock Practice Matters
Many students feel confident about their answers — until the camera turns on.
Our training ensures you’re prepared for:
- Realistic practice tailored to your academic profile
- Course- and university-specific questions based on actual experiences
- Detailed feedback on delivery, clarity, structure, and pace
- Repeated sessions to help you build comfort and fluency on camera
Practicing with a professional helps you prepare for both expected and unexpected questions. It gives you the confidence and clarity to present yourself as a genuine applicant.
A Final Word: Don’t Risk Your CAS on Poor Preparation
You’ve already come far — selecting your course, preparing your documents, arranging funds, and setting your goals.
This final step is too important to leave unprepared. Failing this interview could mean losing the opportunity of a lifetime — not because you were unqualified, but simply because you weren’t ready.
Let us walk with you through this final step. Your hard work deserves success — not a missed chance.
Need Help Preparing?
We’re ready when you are.
