Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
The genuine student rule
The Student route caseworker guidance says the caseworker must be satisfied, on the balance of probability, that you are a genuine student, and must consider all the information in the application and any credibility interview. If they have concerns that your English may fall short of the required level, "they should consider this when assessing the genuine student requirement".
Other factors in the guidance include your immigration history, education history and study plans, personal and financial circumstances, the course, provider and agent, the role of any dependants, and why you chose the UK.
| Stage | What the guidance says |
|---|---|
| Before refusing on genuineness | Interview first, unless a previous refusal had the same facts or a sample of near-identical cases was interviewed |
| Format | Telephone interview, or one arranged by email or phone at a set time and place |
| Failure to attend without good reason | Application must be refused |
| Refusal based on English | Must be justified in the refusal letter |
After the interview
If the interviewer finds you credible and the other requirements are met, an out-of-country application must be granted. If the caseworker is not satisfied you are genuine, they must refuse, and the refusal letter must reflect the interview transcript and explain the reasons in full.
If you are refused, rule ST 24.2 of Appendix Student allows an Administrative Review. For 16 and 17 year olds on the Child Student route, the guidance says the rule must be used proportionately and targeted where there is evidence of risk.
Need a SELT for a UK visa?
Where the Home Office asks for a Secure English Language Test, IELTS for UKVI and PTE Academic UKVI are approved. Practise the format free.
Free IELTS for UKVI practice →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
Preparing
The interview is about your plans, so practise explaining your course, provider, finances and career aims aloud in English. A speaking mock with timed answers is a reasonable rehearsal. Immigration rules change, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current rule on the Student route caseworker guidance before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring an interpreter to a UK Student visa interview?+
The published caseworker guidance does not cover interpreters, and part of the interview section is withheld as sensitive. Ask the visa centre or UKVI before your interview.
If my CAS says B2, can UKVI still doubt my English?+
Yes. The guidance lets caseworkers consider English concerns under the genuine student requirement, with a justified refusal letter.
What if I miss the interview?+
Without a reasonable explanation, the caseworker must refuse the application. It can be rearranged only for adequate reasons.
Can I challenge a refusal?+
Appendix Student says a refused applicant can apply for an Administrative Review under Appendix AR.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for the UK Student visa
- What your CAS says about English
- Free IELTS mock test with AI band score
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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