How to ask to reschedule an interview
Ask early, give one short reason, offer two or three times that work, and say you are still keen. That is the whole email.
Three rules
1
Ask as early as you can
The day you know, not the evening before. A late request is the part that costs you, more than the request itself.
2
One short reason
About you, and true: an exam, a commitment at your current job, a family event. No long explanation.
3
Offer specific times
Two or three slots in the next few days. “Any time next week” makes them do the work.
Write yours
Subject
Request to reschedule: [Role] interview, [Your name]
Dear Hiring Team, Thank you for inviting me to interview for the [Role] role at [Company]. I am sorry to ask, but I am unable to attend on [the date and time you were given]. Could we find another time? [Two or three times that work for you.] I am happy to fit around the panel. I remain very interested in the role and apologise for the inconvenience. Regards, [Your name]
7 blanks in [brackets] to fill.
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Questions people ask
Will rescheduling hurt my chances?
Asking once, early and politely, is common and rarely held against you. Asking twice, or at the last minute, is what hurts.
What if it is the day of the interview?
Call the recruiter first if you have a number, then send the email so it is in writing. Keep it short and apologise once.
Do I have to give a reason?
A short one helps, but “due to a prior commitment” is acceptable. Never invent one.
They have not replied. What now?
Wait a working day, then reply on the same thread asking whether one of the times works. If the original slot is close, call.
Use the extra days well
A checklist from a week before to the day after, with ticks that stay.