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Free email template template · Word

Interview Cancellation Email

An interview cancellation email informs a candidate that a scheduled interview will not take place and will not be rescheduled, usually because the position has been filled, closed or frozen. It is sent as early as possible, apologises sincerely and offers to keep the candidate's profile for future roles.

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Preview of the email template

[Highlighted] = fill in
[Company Logo][Company Name]

INTERVIEW CANCELLATION EMAIL

Subject: Cancellation of your interview for [Designation] on [Date]

Dear [Candidate Name],

Thank you for your interest in the [Designation] role at [Company Name] and for making time for the interview scheduled on [Date] at [Time].

We regret to inform you that we need to cancel this interview because [the position has now been filled / the requirement has been put on hold following an internal review / the role has been closed due to a change in business plans]. This decision is not a reflection of your profile or experience.

We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, especially if you had already arranged leave or travel. If you have incurred travel costs for this interview, please share the bills with us at [Email] and we will process reimbursement as per our policy.

With your consent, we would like to keep your profile on file and reach out when a suitable opportunity opens up. If you would prefer us not to retain your details, simply reply to let us know.

Thank you for your understanding.

Warm regards,
[HR Name]
[Designation]
[Company Name]
[Phone Number]

What this template includes

  • Subject line that clearly states cancellation
  • Interview date and time being cancelled
  • Honest, brief reason
  • Apology for any inconvenience, including travel or leave taken
  • Option to be considered for future openings
  • Reimbursement line if travel costs were already incurred

When to use it

  • The position has been filled before the candidate's interview
  • A hiring freeze or role closure is announced
  • The requisition is cancelled after restructuring
  • The candidate no longer meets a newly confirmed mandatory requirement

How to customise this template

  1. 1Choose the reason sentence that applies
  2. 2Add the travel reimbursement line only if your policy covers it
  3. 3Suggest a specific alternate role if one is open
  4. 4Call senior candidates before sending the email

HR tips

  • Send the cancellation the moment the decision is made, not on the interview day
  • Phone candidates travelling from another city as well as emailing them
  • Do not cancel by silence or a one-line message
  • Remove the event from the panel's calendar too

For HR & hiring managers

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Frequently asked questions

How do I cancel an interview professionally?+

Inform the candidate early, give a brief honest reason, apologise for the inconvenience and offer to keep their profile for future roles.

What is the difference between cancelling and rescheduling?+

Rescheduling moves the interview to a new time. Cancellation means the interview will not happen for this position.

Should we reimburse candidates for travel after cancelling?+

If the candidate has already booked travel at your request, reimbursing reasonable costs is good practice and protects your reputation.