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Set up a Gemini API key for Interview Sarthi

Create a key in Google AI Studio, check the project and model limits, then test it in Interview Sarthi before a mock call. Eligibility and free-tier availability depend on Google.

Source guidance reviewed 15 September 2026: API key documentation and rate limits.

The steps

  1. Open Google AI StudioGo to aistudio.google.com and sign in with an eligible Google account, a personal one is fine.
  2. Click "Get API key"It's in the left sidebar. Direct link: aistudio.google.com/apikey.
  3. Click "Create API key"Choose a project you control or import your existing project as directed by AI Studio. Create a key using the current Google workflow.
  4. Copy it and paste it where it's neededIn Interview Sarthi: setup → Google Gemini key → paste → Test → green tick. In your own code: an environment variable, never committed to git.

What the free tier actually includes

Free-tier availability and quotas vary by model and project. Check your active limits in AI Studio. A software pass does not increase Google quotas; paid API use is billed separately. Test the model and account you intend to use rather than assuming a free quota covers every call.

The fine print that matters: on the free tier, Google states it may use your API content to improve its services. For everyday use most people accept that; if you're discussing something sensitive, say, a confidential interview, and it matters to you, the paid tier (still very cheap per call) comes with the stronger data-handling terms. Google's own wording is in the Gemini API terms.

Keep the key safe: it's a password

Anyone holding your key can spend your quota. Don't paste it in screenshots, don't commit it to GitHub (bots scan public repos within minutes), don't share it in chat groups. If a key leaks, go back to the key page, delete it, and create a new one, takes thirty seconds and old copies die instantly.

Current key requirements

Google documents a transition to authorization keys. Use the key type currently supported by Google, and test compatibility in the app. A valid key can still fail because of permissions, model availability or project configuration; report the error text without sharing the key.

Common problems

"Create API key" is greyed out or errors. Usually a workspace/school account with API access disabled by the admin, switch to a personal Gmail.

The key works, then fails. Inspect the error and the project limits. A quota error may require waiting, reducing requests or reviewing an appropriate billing tier. Other errors can indicate model availability, permissions or connectivity. Do not create extra accounts to bypass quota limits.

Key rejected where you pasted it. Check for a trailing space or missing first characters. Copy the complete key and check current key-type requirements in the Google documentation.

Why tools like ours ask for your key

Interview Sarthi uses your Gemini key so AI processing goes directly from your computer to Google. Your software pass and Google API usage are separate. Read the privacy policy before sending sensitive information, and never email your key to support.

See what Interview Sarthi does with the key →