Genuine Student Interviews

Genuine Student (GS) interviews are a critical component of our GS assessment process, which aims to ensure that we only recruit international students who meet the following requirements:

A genuine commitment to completing a course of study at Curtin University.
A clear understanding of the financial and other commitments involved in studying in Australia.
A genuine intention to return to their home country after completing their studies.

Passing the GS interview is one way for applicants to demonstrate that they meet the requirements. The outcome of the interview will be considered along with other documents, such as the Financial Capacity Declaration form, in the overall GS assessment. Applicants who perform well in their interview are more likely to pass the GS assessment and be accepted into the University.

To be successful, you should be well prepared and able to demonstrate that you have conducted thorough research into your course, campus, finances, and life in Australia. We strongly recommend that you read all the information on this page in preparation for your GS interview.

Interview format

The interview will be conducted by a member of the Admissions Team and will take approximately 10-15 minutes. It will be conducted online, and you will be expected to have your camera on and there should be no one else in the room with you.

During the interview, you will be asked questions about:

Your chosen course of study and how it aligns with your future goals
Your reasons for choosing to study in Western Australia and at Curtin University
Your financial arrangements for studying and living in Western Australia
Your plans after completing your studies
Your family, social, cultural, and economic ties to your home country

You must receive a pass mark for each question to pass your interview.

Please note:

You must use a device or computer with a camera and keep your camera on for the entire interview.
We will need to verify your identity by asking you to display your passport on camera and confirm personal details from your application such as your date of birth.
You must be alone in the room and not read from prepared scripts. The interview may be terminated if the interviewer suspects that you are not alone or that you are reading from a script.
You must ensure you have a reliable internet connection. If your connection drops during the interview, please email us to reschedule.

Preparing for the interview

The interview is not difficult, but it requires preparation and thought. You will not pass the interview if you are not prepared. To prepare for the interview, we recommend that you:

Review your Curtin University application materials and be prepared to discuss them in detail
Research Curtin University and the course you have applied for
Think about your reasons for choosing to study in Western Australia and at Curtin University
Consider your plans for after completing your studies
Gather evidence of your family, social, cultural, and economic ties to your home country.

Tips for a successful interview

Do your own research

You will not pass the GS interview unless you can show that you have thoroughly researched your course, Curtin University, campus, finances, home country’s employment conditions, and Australian life and culture.

It’s okay to ask for clarification.

If you don’t understand a question, say so. Feel free to ask the interviewer to repeat or explain a question you’re not sure about.

Be calm and speak clearly.

You may be nervous, but as much as possible, try to stay calm and think clearly so you can express your answers well. Remember to speak clearly and not too softly.

Stick to the facts.

Back up your claims with evidence. For example, if asked about Australian culture, don’t just say “Australians are generally easy-going and friendly.” Provide evidence. Who told you? Where did you read it? What source?

Be specific and give examples where appropriate

Applicants who give general or generic answers will not score well. For example, if asked about the difference between your country’s and Australia’s education systems, don’t just say “Australia’s is more practical and mine is more theoretical.” Explain why and show you understood the question.

Do not read from prepared answers

The interviewer will watch for signs you’re reading your answers. You’re expected to prepare, but you must not read or refer to notes or websites during the interview. Your interview may be terminated if we suspect you are reading from notes.

If you have any questions about the interview process, please do not hesitate to contact us.