Shortlisting and interviewsShortlisting and interviews

Overview

Applications at the University of the Arts London are shortlisted using an anonymised and structured process to ensure fairness and consistency. Candidates who are shortlisted are invited to interview or assessment, while all applicants are notified of the outcome.

Please note, as per our FAQs, feedback is not available at shortlisting stage due to the siginficant volume of applications we receive.

Shortlisting process

Once a vacancy has closed, the local Resourcing Team relevant to the College/Executive Group will notify the selection panel (usually involving the hiring manager) to begin shortlisting. All panels are required to undertake UAL’s recruitment and selection training as well as other relevant training such as anti-racism and understanding bias.

All applications are anonymised meaning that any personally identifiable information entered into the application form such as your name is hidden during this stage to mitigate against any potential biases (unless you have included any such information in attachments if requested such as a portfolio or published work).

Shortlisting is based on criteria set out in the job description and person specification and asked for in the application form. Applications are scored using a standard assessment matrix to ensure consistency. All panel members conduct their shortlisting independently of each other and once all panel members have completed their shortlisting, the panel will conduct a washup meeting to review scores and agree on whom will progress to the next stage of the process.

Candidates are usually notified of the outcome of shortlisting within 10–15 days of the closing date by email and by logging into the Application Portal at any time. During periods of high application volume, this may take longer so we kindly ask candidates to remain patient and to ensure they check their junk/spam folders in case any notifications end up there.

Interview and assessment stages

Candidates who are shortlisted will be invited to the next stage of the recruitment process. Depending on the role, this may include one or more of the following:

• A competency-based interview
• A presentation or practical assessment
• A micro-teach session (for some academic roles)
• Psychometric testing
• A panel or stakeholder interview

Details of the interview format and any preparation requirements will be shared in advance.

Competency-based interviews

UAL uses competency-based interviews to assess candidates’ experience and behaviours. Questions often begin with prompts such as “Tell us about a time when…” or “Describe a situation where…”.

Candidates are encouraged to draw on professional, academic, voluntary or other relevant experience when responding.

Preparing for your interview

Candidates may find it helpful to:

• Review the job description and person specification
• Familiarise themselves with the department and role context
• Structure answers using the STAR or CARL method
• Prepare concise notes to support responses
• Allow time to pause and reflect before answering questions

Interview panels understand that candidates may feel nervous and aim to create a supportive and professional environment.

After the interview

Successful candidates will be informed following the interview stage and guided through the next steps.

If you are not successful, feedback should be offered by the interview chair, including scores where possible. Feedback can be used constructively to support future applications.

UAL is committed to supporting development and progression, and candidates are encouraged to apply for future opportunities where appropriate.

Frequently asked questions