the hiring processes included an email exchange with some basic questions with an initial phone call, followed by a 30min video interview. had to also submit a writing sample and my university transcripts.

This company seems shady. According to the company house they were incorporated in 2021 but on their website they state they have been operating since 2006. Also, after being shortlisted after sending in your CV, you will be given an essay to write on a thousand words which may or may not be accepted. This seems quite exploitative because they can easily give out your work and reject you and the cycle continues. I would steer clear if i were you.