Interviews

If you have been invited to attend an interview, congratulations! You have already impressed us with your application, and an interview is an opportunity for you to build on this.  

Interviews are designed to assess your understanding of the course and the professional environment you are preparing to enter. They help us to evaluate your overall suitability for the programme and provide an opportunity for you to show off your motivation and commitment to your chosen course of study.  

Before your interview we recommend that you:  

• Review the course webpage to understand the modules you will study, the academic and experiential requirements, and the professional context of your chosen programme. These pages highlight sector standards; current issues and the qualities and values sought in applicants.  

• Revisit your application: Your application is the basis for your invite to interview. Take time to review the key knowledge, accomplishments, skills, experiences and strengths you included.  

• Research the University and profession: Learn about the University of Cumbria, your campus, and your chosen course. For professionally accredited programmes (e.g. Nursing, Physiotherapy, Paramedic Science and teaching), research the accrediting body and major UK employers in the field.  

• Reflect on your skills and experience: Consider the attributes, experiences and skills that have prepared you for University study. Think about how these have helped you develop and how you plan to build on them during your course.  

All online interviews are conducted via Microsoft teams.  

• Test your tech: Check your internet connection, camera, and microphone in advance.  

• Use the right device: If possible, join your interview on a laptop or computer. Any device you choose will require working audio and video.  

• Choose the right space: Try to find a quiet, private, well-lit space to minimize distractions and support communication. Interviews must be conducted privately; other individuals should not be present i) this includes your recruitment agent.  

• Have a backup plan: Keep an alternative device in the room with you in case of technical issues. 

• Close unnecessary apps: This helps to avoid notifications, distractions and improves connection quality.  

• Look professional: Dress as you would for an in-person interview  

• Engage naturally: Look at the camera when speaking and speak clearly.  

• Join your meeting correctly: Open the interview invitation email, click the link and join.  Or If you have booked your own interview slot Open your calendar, select the meeting and click Join. Ensure your camera and microphone are switched on before joining.  

Further Microsoft teams guidance can be found here First things to know about meetings in Microsoft Teams - Microsoft Support

Face to Face Interviews  

• Please head to the main reception of the campus your interview is being held on.  

• We recommend arriving 15 minutes before your interview slot.  

• You will be greeted by reception staff/ a member of the admissions team and then taken over to where the interview will be conducted by a member of the Academic team.  

• The use of AI during online interviews is NOT permitted. This is to ensure the interview process is equitable and fair for all applicants.  

• This includes for the generation of answers, reading AI written scripts, deepfakes, or fabricating experiences. 

• Where it is suspected an applicant is using or has used AI during their interview, this will be investigated thoroughly and in line with the admissions procedure.  

• We encourage you to prepare for your interview to ensure you feel confident and informed, and AI might form part of this preparation process. However, interviews at the University of Cumbria are not designed to catch you off guard. They are a tool used to help determine your suitability for your chosen programme and to get to know you better, so come as you are and share your authentic experiences.  

• Can I pre-prepare notes? – Yes, preparing brief notes can help to jog your memory and boost your confidence. However, avoid reading directly from them or using a full script, as this can affect the flow of your conversation.  

• What should I wear? – The recommended dress code is smart-casual. Choose comfortable, neat clothing and consider any professional expectations for your chosen course.  

• When will I receive an outcome? – You will receive follow up communication from admissions within five working days of your interview.  

• Can I ask questions during the interview? – Absolutely, the interview is a great opportunity to learn more about the course and studying at the University of Cumbria i) Questions about CAS or visa compliance should not be asked during the course interview, as these are often highly impacted by and related to individual circumstances. For visa-related queries, contact UKVIcompliance@cumbria.ac.uk