Once you’re selected to any UK university, then for sure, you can apply for a UK visa. Every country has its own particular name for their study visa, but in the UK this is called the Tier4 (General Student) visa. Your study visa will be your only identity and proof that you’re studying legally in a particular country. Also, your type of study visa will witness what all you can and can’t do while living in the UK.
After you got selected in a university for the applied course, then you have to apply for a study visa through an online application form and submit the required documents. Once you’re done with your form, then you have to submit a study visa fee which allows setting a schedule for your interview. The interview is a very essential part as it is done with the UK Embassy or Consulate. An email will be sent which will tell you that your application is accepted and you are asked to attend an interview or you’re refused without providing a reasonable explanation. Based on the interview, you’ll be judged whether you are applicable or not.
Going for an interview is like making your blood run cold! But don’t worry too much, as this interview is just a face to face communication to see that if you’re eligible or not. After visiting the study visa application center you have to give your biometric information and the video interview begins. The interview questions are mainly about your institution, course, how you will finance yourself, and your English speaking skills. The Entry Clearance Officer must be satisfied that you are a genuine student, otherwise, you’ll be asked for a further interview or your form will be rejected.
Some of the general study visa questions and suggestions for the answers:
1. Could you please tell me your name and date of birth?
A1. Begin with salutations! Then start with your basic introduction in a very formal and polite manner.
2. Where will you be studying and when does your course start?
A2. Just answer the questions in a very straightforward manner. It’s not a poetic competition; just tell the name of your university and your course details. This is to check whether you’re aware of the details or not.
3. Why did you choose the UK for your education destination?
A3. Tell them about the advantages of studying abroad and how these advantages will help you to achieve your career goals. Highlight those points that a particular university or course possesses in the UK over others. Tell about the multi-cultural aspect of living in the UK and also the quality of opportunities and knowledge provides in these universities for international students.
4. Why did you choose a particular university?
A4. Think about why you chose a particular university rather than your home university. Tell them about the benefits offered to the students studying at that particular university. Highlight those benefits to empower your intentions of joining that particular college/university.
5. How will you finance your study?
A5. This is a very important question in the interview as your selection very much depends on it. The purpose of this question is to check that your funds are genuinely available for your studies or not. If you received an official scholarship from any university or any other genuine source, then make sure you are aware of the amounts and exactly what is covered. Mention each and every detail of your finance and funding. If you are taking a student loan, mention the details or if your parents are covering your travel and study expenses mention it. You will need to provide proof of sufficient funds that will cover your expenses.
6. What are your previous qualifications in India?
A6. Mention the details of your school educations and college education (if you are a graduate from your home country). Tell them about your course or program completed in India. Also, tell me why you studied this particular course and how it is linked to your study abroad course.
7. How many members are there in your family and their occupation?
A7. Tell details about your parents and their occupations, such as your father’s job, type of job, his annual income, etc., and the same about your mother if she is working or a house-wife. Tell about your siblings and their occupation.
8. Are you traveling alone or with someone?
A8. Mention the person you’ll be traveling to.
9. Where will you be staying in the UK?
A9. Mention the address of your stay as per the visa application process.
10. Do you plan to work in the UK?
A10. If your study visa allows you to work while studying, you may go ahead and inform you that you will be working. You can’t rely fully on your personal funds, in order to gain some extra bucks you’ll have to work in a part-time job. Tell them why you want to work and what will be benefited from; working. For more information kindly read – Can I work in the UK while studying?
In addition to the above questions, other queries around your current IELTS score may also arise.
So, these are some general questions and some suggestions for your answers. Remember you should be well dressed with utmost confidence. Just answer your questions in a direct and simple form, don’t complicate your answers. The interviewer will also be checking your ability to converse well in English if there is an issue with hearing them clearly state it earlier. Carefully listen to questions and then answer.
