If you are planning to study in the UK, chances are you will hear the term Pre-CAS interview sooner or later. Many students get confused or even scared by the word “interview,” but in reality, it is much simpler than it sounds.
A pre-CAS interview is a short interview conducted by a UK university before they issue your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). The CAS is a mandatory document required to apply for a UK student visa, so yes, this step is important.
However, this interview is not an exam. You are not being judged or tested like in an entrance exam. The university simply wants to confirm a few basic things:
1) that you meet their academic requirements
2) that you understand the course you applied for
3) and that you are a genuine student who actually plans to study in the UK.
In simple words, they want to make sure that what you wrote in your application makes sense when you speak about it.
It is also very important not to confuse this with a UKVI visa interview. A pre-CAS interview is conducted by the university, not by the visa office. In most cases, it is taken online through a video call.
When and How Does a Pre-CAS Interview Take Place?
The timing of a pre-CAS interview is quite straightforward.
Most universities arrange it after you receive your offer letter but before they issue your CAS number. Usually, this happens once your offer becomes unconditional, although the exact timing can vary from one university to another.
As for the format, here’s what you can normally expect:
The interview is usually conducted online using platforms like Microsoft Teams or Zoom.
It is short, often lasting around 5 to 15 minutes depending on the university and questions.
You will speak directly with a university admissions officer or an international student advisor.
Even if you have submitted IELTS or another English test, they may still assess your English level casually during the conversation.
One thing you should not take lightly is attendance. If you miss the interview or join very late, your CAS issuance can be delayed, which may later affect your UK student visa timeline.
Why Do UK Universities Conduct Pre-CAS Interviews?
Many students ask this question, and honestly, it makes sense to ask. UK universities conduct pre-CAS interviews for a few very practical reasons.
1. To check academic suitability
The university wants to confirm that your previous education actually matches the course you applied for. For example, if you are applying for a business or management course, they may ask about subjects like business studies, economics, or mathematics that you studied earlier.
2. To understand your motivation
Universities prefer students who know why they chose a particular course and why they want to study in the UK. They are not looking for fancy answers. They just want answers that sound real, clear, and personal.
3. To meet visa sponsorship responsibilities
UK universities are legally responsible for the international students they sponsor. A pre-CAS interview helps them ensure that students are genuine and likely to meet UKVI visa requirements.
4. To identify issues early
If there are any unclear points, missing information, or inconsistencies in your application, the university can identify them before issuing the CAS. This helps avoid delays or visa problems later.
Typical Pre-CAS Interview Questions You Might Be Asked
The pre-CAS interview is not designed to trap you. It is more like a confirmation discussion. Most questions fall into a few common categories.
Academic and course-related questions:
Why did you choose this course?
How is this course connected to your previous studies?
Are there any specific modules or subjects that interest you?
Motivation and future plans:
Why do you want to study in the UK instead of Nepal or other countries?
What are your career plans after completing this course?
How will this qualification help you in the future?
Practical preparation questions:
Do you understand the teaching style and workload of this course?
How do you plan to manage accommodation and daily life in the UK?
Are you financially prepared for tuition fees and living expenses?
The key thing to remember here is this: they are not expecting perfect answers. They just want to see that you are serious, prepared, and honest.
Tips to Prepare for a Pre-CAS Interview
You do not need to memorize answers for a pre-CAS interview. In fact, memorized answers often make things worse.
Here are some realistic tips that actually help
Go through your application once again
Be familiar with what you wrote in your personal statement and documents, because many questions come directly from there.
Understand your course properly
Know the course structure and a few modules. Even mentioning one or two modules naturally shows genuine interest.
Practice speaking naturally
Speak in simple, clear English. You don’t need complex words. Interviewers prefer clarity over grammar perfection.
Have basic practical clarity
You don’t need everything finalized, but you should have a basic idea about accommodation, finances, and living arrangements.
Be honest and calm
If you don’t know an answer, it is okay to say so politely. Guessing or exaggerating usually creates more problems.
Final Thoughts
For many students, the pre-CAS interview feels stressful at first. But once you understand its purpose, it becomes much less intimidating. It is simply a short conversation to confirm that your application is genuine and that you are ready to study in the UK.
If you prepare calmly and answer honestly, the interview becomes an opportunity rather than a hurdle. With the right mindset, you can clear your pre-CAS interview smoothly and move one step closer to receiving your CAS and starting your UK study journey with confidence.
