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Applying for a Student Visa in your Home Country - (Entry Clearance)

If you want to come to the UK to study at the University of East London (UEL) you will require a visa for study purposes, if you are not a British citizen or are a citizen of the European Economic Area or Switzerland.

Note for Current students of UEL applying for a new Tier 4 visa to resume studies: We advise returning students who have been on a break from studies to apply for a new Tier 4 visa in order to return the UK, as advised by the UK Border Agency. This advice applies to all Tier 4 students who have been on a break from studies for any reason, or for those students who have returned home in order to renew a Tier 4 visa, which has already expired.

Tier 4 (General) Student Visa - Entry Clearance

These pages provide information on applying for a Student Visa - Tier 4 (General) in your home country (Entry Clearance)

Summary of the Tier 4 (General) Points system

To study in the UK on a Tier 4 General student visa the institution must be on the UK Border Agency Sponsor Register for Licensed Sponsors. A sponsor for Tier 4 visa purposes is the educational institution who supports your visa application to study in the UK. UEL is on the list as a Highly Trusted Sponsor.

In order to maintain our status as a Highly Trusted Sponsor, UEL is required to comply in full with the UK Border Agency Points Based System Sponsor Requirements. It is vital that you are aware of these requirements, as they concern your enrolment, attendance and progress at UEL from the moment you are issued with your Tier 4 visa.

Please read our Tier 4 Compliance leaflet for a summary of the Tier 4 requirements for students as well as the University of East London.

Almost all students over the age of 16 wanting to study at UEL will need to apply as an adult student -Tier 4 (General). The Tier 4 policy requires you to study full time only (except in some exceptional cases if you are a continuing student repeating a part of your course).

Tier 4 (General) is part of the UK Border Agency's Points Based System (PBS) for managed migration. Under the PBS you need to secure the necessary points in order to be considered for a visa. You are required to obtain 40 points:

  • 30 for the university Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS), and
  • 10 for maintenance (money available to you for your programme fees and living costs)

Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) - Is an electronic document inputted directly into the UK Border Agency database by the University of East London. A CAS is issued once you have been made an unconditional offer and paid a minimum 50% of the tuition fees - See CAS

Maintenance - You must show that you have money available to you covering your full fees for the programme (or the first year) and a specific amount for your living costs.

You must be able to demonstrate that you have access to sufficient funds to cover fees and living costs. The maintenance requirements are very strict and require specific evidence - see Maintenance section

Note: Your Visa will be linked to your study at UEL and will only be valid for study at UEL. You will not be able to switch to another institution with your visa.

Who can apply for a Tier 4 General visa

You can apply for a Tier 4 General visa if you:

  • Are 16 years old or over
  • Have been issued with a CAS for study at UEL
  • Meet all the Tier 4 requirements

Acceptable Progammes of Study

To qualify for a Tier 4 General - Student Visa , your programme of study at UEL must be one of the following:

  • Full time Undergraduate Degree,
  • Full time Postgraduate Degree,
  • Full time Pre-sessional English course,
  • Full time Graduate Certificate in Business (Pre Masters) course
  • Full time International Foundation Programme (IFP)

Note: Courses with elements of organised work placement are acceptable if the work placement is an integral part of the course and is no more than 50% of the course. If you are unsure as to whether your course meets the requirements contact us at isa@uel.ac.uk

Application Fee & Process

Applications for a Student Visa to the UK under Tier 4 (General) can be made using the VAF 9 and Appendix 8 forms. Part of the Tier 4 applications can be made online in some countries and on paper only in some countries.

You can find the Tier 4 (General) application forms, policy guidance and advice notes in our Forms & Guidance section and on the UK Border Agency website.

  • You must apply in the country in which you normally live

Note: Always check that the form you are using is the most up to date version.

Application Fees

If applying before 6 April 2013: The application fee is £289 (in local currency equivalent).

If applying on or after 6 April 2013: The application fee is £298 (in local currency equivalent).

Visa Application - Online or Paper

The UK Border Agency website has a country finder section, which explains if you need to apply online or on paper through one of the Visa Application Centres in your country. You must complete the VAF 9 and the Appendix 8 application forms.

  • Online Applications - Read the UK Border Agency section on Online Applications for guidance if you need to apply online. Note: The appendix 8 form is not available to complete online and must be printed and completed manually.
  • Paper Applications - Print the VAF 9 and Appendix 8 forms available on the UK Border Agency website. We have produced interactive forms for applications outside the UK (which are like online guides) to help you complete your paper applications.

Whether applying online or on paper, you should first read the UK Border Agency guidance notes: VAF guidance notes, Supporting documents guidance and the Tier 4 policy guidance.

Biometrics

As part of the application process for a Tier 4 student visa you will need to attend a biometric appointment at the Visa Application centre or British Embassy to:

  • provide a digital scan of your fingerprints and 
  • have a digital photograph taken.

This process is known as biometric enrolment or biometric data collection. If you apply online you must also make an appointment to provide your biometric data.

More information on the biometrics procedure on the UK Border Agency website

Interviews by the UK Border Agency

In some cases it is possible that the UK Border Agency (UKBA) may call you for an interview. You may be interviewed by telephone or be called for an in-person interview.  UKBA state that the idea for any interview is to confirm that the applicant is a genuine student.  If called for an interview, the UK Border Agency staff may ask you a number of questions:

  • To test if you can speak sufficient English to study in the UK
  • About your immigration history
  • About your education history
  • About the studies you are planning to undertake in the UK and your post study plans
  • About your financial circumstances
  • If you are applying with dependants, about the legitimacy of your relationship

 It is important to speak clearly and answer questions ensuring that you provide clear and full information as requested by UKBA.  

Health (TB) Screening

If you are applying for a Tier 4 visa to come to the UK for 6 months or longer, and you are applying from certain countries (listed below), you are required to provide a certificate to show that you are free from Infectious Pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB). We have listed below the countries that currently require TB Screening.

Please note: The UK border Agency have increased the number of countries which require TB screening  to 67. The new countries added to the list will be implemeneted over the next year. See the UKBA website for more information.

  • Bangladesh,
  • Burkina Faso,
  • Cambodia,
  • Cote d'Ivoire,
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo,
  • Eritrea,
  • Ghana,
  • Kenya,
  • Laos,
  • Malaysia (as of 31/12/12)
  • Nepal (as of 31/12/12)
  • Niger,
  • Pakistan,
  • Rwanda,
  • Somalia,
  • Sudan,
  • Tanzania,
  • Thailand,
  • Togo and
  • Uganda (visitor applications)

The requirements for Health (TB) Screening are available on the UK Border Agency website.

When to Apply for a Tier 4 General visa

If you want to apply for a Tier 4 General visa to study at UEL, you should prepare as early as possible. This is because the application process can sometimes take a long time.

It is important that you make the necessary arrangements to arrive in the UK to begin your programme on the start date outlined on your offer letter and CAS. In exceptional circumstances, the University will allow you to enrol up until the latest date of enrolment, as outlined on your CAS, but starting your studies after the official start date may mean that you miss the welcome programme, School induction and the beginning of your classes. You would also be expected to catch-up with any classes you have missed.

Please note, UEL cannot permit students to join their programme of study later than the latest enrolment date as stated on the CAS.

New Students:

  • Complete the admissions process to UEL (choose a programme of study, make an application, receive an offer and make payment) More information on applying to UEL - see International Office webpages.
  • Once you have completed the admissions process, a CAS will be issued and a summary will be sent to you by email
    • from early May for programmes starting in September
    • from mid October for programmes starting in February
    • Up to 3 months before Pre-Sessional English/International Foundation Programme

Continuing Students:

  • If you are continuing your studies without any break (except official vacation periods), you can apply up to three months before your visa expires, providing you meet the Tier 4 requirements.
  • If you are planning to continue your studies after a break in studies, you can apply up to three months before your return to studies, providing you meet the Tier 4 requirements.

All Students:

  • Begin preparing your maintenance (finances) at least two months prior to application.
  • Apply for the Tier 4 visa as soon as possible before the start date of your programme, we recommend 2 - 3 months before your start date.
  • Arrange and attend an appointment to provide your biometric data.
  • Your visa will be issued a maximum of one month before the start date of your programme of study - for most undergraduate, postgraduate and pre-sessional English or one week before for other types of course or shorter programmes.

You can also apply for an extension in your home country to continue a programme at UEL that you have already started or if you are moving from one programme to another.

UKVISAS provides an approximation of visa processing times - this can vary considerably throughout the year and in different countries around the world. It is therefore important to check the UK Visas processing times for the city where you are applying to ensure that you are well prepared.

Limit to amount of time spent in the UK under Tier 4

The amount of time you can study at degree level (NQFL 6 or above) on a Tier 4 visa is limited to five years.

When applying for a Tier 4 visa, the amount of time you have previously spent studying in the UK will be considered. When calculating whether or not the five year limit applies to you, all time spent studying in the UK at degree level or above, whilst on aTier 4 visa or pre-Tier 4 visa (student visa issued prior to 31March 2009) will be taken into account.

This does not apply to:

  • Architecture students
  • PhD students*
  • Students whose UG course was 4 or 5 years in duration who are now applying for a Masters course NB this does not apply if you take longer than expected to complete your course, for example to undertake re-sits.

Only time spent studying is included - the period of leave granted after the course end date is not included. However, you are advised to be cautious about time counted towards the five year limit.

*PhD students and applicants: You be exempt from the time limit while you study for your PhD. However, you will not be granted any further leave under Tier 4 once you have completed your PhD if this further grant of leave would result in you spending more than eight years in the UK as a Tier 4 (General) student.

If you are unclear as to whether this applies to you, please email isa@uel.ac.uk

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

To claim 30 points for your Tier 4 application you will need to be issued with a CAS

  • A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is an electronic document inputted directly into the UK Border Agency database by the University of East London.

The UK Border Agency stopped accepting Visa Letters for student visa applications made on or after 22nd February 2010. The Visa Letter was replaced by a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) which you can obtain by following the procedures below.

New Students requesting a CAS

If you are a new student or are applying for a new programme of study at UEL, the following are the procedures for being issued with a CAS:

  • Make a Tier 4 application.
  • Conditional Offer made and sent to you by email (with International Student Reply form).
  • You must meet the academic conditions and pay a minimum 50% deposit.
  • Respond to the International Student Reply Form with your details.
  • CAS assigned and email sent to you or your education adviser, with your CAS details (including CAS number). You will need to refer to the CAS details for your visa application.

Note: If you are in the UK and your current visa expires more than 28 days before your new course starts, you will not be able to apply.

Detailed information on the application process and obtaining a CAS can be found on the International Admissions Procedures and Tier 4 Requirements webpages.

When you receive the CAS Statement:

  • Check that all the details are correct, including name on passport, birth date, etc. If any of the details are incorrect please email admissions.international@uel.ac.uk immediately.
  • If you to choose to pay more towards your tuition fees or university accommodation before submitting your visa application, you should email  admissions.international@uel.ac.uk to have your CAS statement updated. Reminder that only £1000 in university accommodation fees can be deducted from the overall living costs.
  • Receipt of University Accommodation fees payments already made (if not stated on CAS)
  • Use the CAS reference number and the information provided on the CAS Statement in the relevant sections of the application form (Appendix 8)

Continuing Students requesting a CAS

(A) CAS Requirements

A CAS is issued by the International Compliance team to current students who fulfil all of the following requirements:

  • Hold a valid student visa OR a valid visa in another immigration category which allows you to apply for a Tier 4 visa in the UK. 
  • Have a satisfactory attendance record. Your School will confirm to the International Compliance team if you meet this requirement.
  • Have made satisfactory academic progress with your studies. This will be determined by your School in liaison with the International Compliance team. A student’s overall academic record is considered on a case by case basis, and this will take into account the length of time already studied at this level with UEL and your module results to date. A CAS will not be issued to students who have not made the required academic progress. In addition to this, a CAS will not be issued to students who are continuing their studies as a result of previous non-submission of work and / or failure to undertake required examinations.  
  • Meet the UK Border Agency’s time limit for studying in the UK under Tier 4.  Students will be requested by the International Compliance team provide full information about their previous study history in the UK. 
  • Have a good credit history with the University and be up-to-date with tuition fee payments. A CAS will not be issued to students who have outstanding tuition fee debt.
  • Our International Students Advice (ISA) team are trained in Tier 4 issues who will support you through the Tier 4 visa application process, including the documents required. You will need to provide copies of the maintenance documents so that we can check they meet the specific Tier 4 requirements. A CAS will not be issued to students who do not have the required documentation, in the correct format, by their visa expiry date.

You will be required to provide a copy of the Special Delivery receipt once you have submitted your application, provide communication from UKBA and keep us updated with the status of your pending application, including brining in your new visa to the International Office so that we can update your record.  

(B) Requesting a CAS

You can request a CAS no more than three months prior to your visa expiring. If your visa has already expired, you must email isa@uel.ac.uk immediately for advice on what to do.

Please ensure that all payments you want to have reflected on your Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (tuition fees for 12/13 and, if applicable, on-campus accommodation) have been made before submitting the request.

If you are a continuing student at UEL (continuing on the same programme of study) and require a CAS, the procedures to be followed is outlined in the this document:

Please note: The time spent on study at degree level by Tier 4 (General) Students is limited to five years, with some exceptions. Click here for more information.

When you receive the CAS Statement:

  • Check that all the details are correct, including name on passport, birth date, etc. If any of the details are incorrect please email CASrequest@uel.ac.uk immediately.
  • If you to choose to pay more towards your tuition fees or university accommodation before submitting your visa application, you should email CASrequest@uel.ac.uk to have your CAS statement updated. Reminder that only £1000 in university accommodation fees can be deducted from the overall living costs.
  • Receipt of University Accommodation fees payments already made (if not stated on CAS)
  • Use the CAS reference number and the information provided on the CAS Statement in the relevant sections of the student visa application form Tier 4 (G).

Maintenance Requirements (Money)

To claim 10 points for maintenance, you will need to show that you have the required funds for the required period of time.

The required amount of funds and the evidence showing access to the required funds, will depend on your individual circumstances. Normally, you are required to show that you have held the required amount of funds at all times for a consecutive 28 days period (finishing on the date of the closing balance) ending no more than 1 month before the date of your application.

In most cases, new students applying for a Tier 4 visa outside the UK will be required to show the higher maintenance amount. In some cases, you may be able to show the lower maintenance amount.

The UK Border Agency may check that you still have the funds available at the time of considering your application and may also check that you still have the funds available to you at the time that you arrive in the UK.

If you are on the UKBA's list of 'low-risk' nationals, you are not required to submit evidence of your funds with your application, but will be required to provide it if the UKBA request it at a later date. Please see low risk nationals for more information

Note for Current students of UEL applying for a new Tier 4 visa to resume studies: We advise returning students who have been on a break from studies to apply for a new Tier 4 visa in order to return the UK, as advised by the UK Border Agency. We also advise returning students to show the higher maintenance amount for their Tier 4 application, until we receive clarification on the new rules. This advice applies to all Tier 4 students who have been on a break from studies for any reason, or for those students who have returned home in order to renew a Tier 4 visa, which has already expired.

(A) Higher Maintenance Requirement

This situation will typically apply to applicants who are coming to the UK to study for the first time or after a break in studies (for example students who have been on a break in semester B but have re-sits to do in the summer or students who are on a break in semester A but have to return in semester B)

You will be required to show the higher maintenance requirement if you do not have current leave to be in the UK as a Tier 4 migrant, as a student, or as a Post-graduate Doctor or Dentist (NB if the expiry date on your visa has not passed yet but you have recently left the UK, your visa may have been curtailed on exit.)

You will need to show that you have finances available to you:

  • full year's tuition fees (minus any fees that you have already paid).
  • £9,000 living expenses (or £1000 for every month of the course if course less than 9 months).

If you have already paid some of your tuition fees, this will be reflected on your CAS, this will be deducted from the amount of funds you are required to show available to you.

If you have paid fees for university accommodation, this will be reflected on your CAS. Up to £1000 of the accommodation fees you have already paid will be deducted from the amount of funds you are required to show available to you.

Note: Part months are counted as full months by the UK Border Agency. Therefore if your course is 4 months and 2 weeks in length, the UK Border Agency will require you to show 5 months of living costs. All evidence should be original and meet all the criteria as stipulated in the Tier 4 guidance notes.

(B) Lower Maintenance Requirement

This situation will typically apply to students who wish to extend their student visa by applying in their home country, in order to continue with the same course or moving from undergraduate to postgraduate course.

You are required to show the Lower Maintenance Requirement if:

  • You have current leave to be in the UK as a Tier 4 migrant, as a student, or as a Post-graduate Doctor or Dentist (NB if the expiry date on your visa has not passed yet but you have recently left the UK, your visa may have been curtailed on exit.)

AND

  • if you have finished a single course that was at least six months long within your last period of entry clearance, leave to enter or leave to remain OR
    OR
  • •if you are applying for a continued study on a single course where you have completed at least six months of that course

You will need to show that you have finances available to you

  • full year's tuition fees (minus any fees that you have already paid)
  • £2000 for living expenses (or £1000 in a very small number of cases)

If you have already paid some of your tuition fees and this is reflected on your CAS, this will be deducted from the amount of funds you are required to show available to you.

If you have paid fees for university accommodation, this will be reflected on your CAS. Up to £1000 of the accommodation fees you have already paid will be deducted from the amount of funds you are required to show available to you.

Note: You must ensure that this rule for lower living costs applies to you before submitting your application. Otherwise your application may be refused due to lack of funds available to you. All evidence should be original and meet all the criteria as stipulated in the Tier 4 guidance notes

Types of funds available to you

You must have the relevant amount of funds available to you through one of the following:

  • Money held in your own bank account (an account in your name).
  • Money held in your parents' bank account (along with your birth certificate and a letter from your parents consenting to your application as well as confirmation of your relationship).
  • An agreed bank loan (see below).
  • Official Government financial sponsorship (UK or other government)-
  • Official International Scholarship Agency financial sponsorship.
  • Official International Company sponsorship.
  • Official University financial sponsorship.

Note: Most students do not receive official financial sponsorship. If this is your case, you will have to show the full amount of the required funds available to you in your bank account and/or loan agreement or parents bank account. All evidence should be original and meet all the criteria as stipulated in the Tier 4 guidance notes.

Evidence of funds

You must show evidence of the funds available to you depending on your situation:

If you are on the UKBA's list of 'low-risk' nationals, you are not required to submit evidence of your funds with your application, but will be required to provide it if the UKBA request it at a later date. Please see low risk nationals for more information.

The UK Border Agency may check that you still have the funds available at the time of considering your application and may also check that you still have the funds available to you at the time that you arrive in the UK.

Acceptable Financial Institutions

The UKBA has a list of financial institutions that they do not consider to be reliable and therefore cannot be used for financial evidence for TIer 4 applications.

This list will be updated regularly so please visit the UKBA website for the most up to date information. At the time of writing the list covers institutions in Bangladesh, Cameroon, Ghana, India, Iran, Pakistan and the Philippines.

Before you start preparing your financial evidence, please check the UKBA list of acceptable financial institutions here.

Money held in Bank Accounts

If you are showing evidence of your maintenance in a bank account, you must show that you have held the required amount of money in your bank account for the last 28 days without dipping below at any point.

  • Bank statements must be dated less than one month old.

All evidence should be original and meet all the criteria as stipulated in the Tier 4 guidance notes.

  • You can use more than one bank account in your name.
  • You can use UK or home country bank accounts in your name.
  • You can use joint bank account where you are one of the account holders named.
  • You can use your parents bank accounts if they have the full funds. In this case you must produce evidence of your relationship (such as birth certificate) along with a letter from them consenting to your using their bank account and confirming your relationship.
  • You cannot use bank accounts of other family members or friends.
  • If you have official sponsorship which does not cover the full tuition fees for the (first) year and your living costs for the relevant time, you will need to show evidence in your bank account covering the remainder of the funds available to you.

Note: If your bank account is not in £ (Pounds Sterling) you must convert the closing balance and write it on the statement/letter using the OANDA website. All evidence should be original and meet all the criteria as stipulated in the Tier 4 guidance notes.

When preparing your financial evidence, you must check that it meets the Tier 4 Policy Guidance http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/pbs/Tier4migrantguidance.pdf Paragraph 180(i).

Money available through an Educational Loan

If you are planning to use a loan as evidence of finances for a Tier 4 application, remember to check the Tier 4 Policy Guidance carefully. The requirements for the format of loan letters changed on 28 February 2013.

Your loan letter must state that the loan is provided by a national government, a state or regional government, or a government sponsored student loan company or that it is part of an academic or educational loans scheme. You will not be able to use a loan that does not meet one of these requirements. See Tier 4 Policy Guidance http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/applicationforms/pbs/Tier4migrantguidance.pdf Paragraph 180(v).

USA Students - Direct Loan Programme

If you are a US citizen or eligible non citizen, you may be eligible to receive an educational loan through the Direct Loan Programme administered by the US Federal Government. For more information on Direct Loan Programme see UEL Student Money Advice webpages.

Students receiving a loan through the US Direct Loan Programme will be required to submit an extra document with their Tier 4 application

  • Letter from UEL International Office letter confirming procurement of Direct Loan.

Please note that if your loan does not cover the full finances required for your circumstances, you will need to show the remaining money available to you in your bank account for 28 days as above

Official Financial Sponsorship

Official Financial Sponsorship is defined by the UK Border Agency as financial sponsorship from the UK Government, another government, an international company or institution, or UEL. If you are being sponsored by an official financial sponsor, you must provide evidence of this (in line with the Tier 4 policy guidance).

  • Original letter from the organisation providing your official financial sponsorship stating the amount that they will provide you with or a statement that they will provide the full tuition fees and living costs

 

English Language Requirements & Educational Qualifications

English Language Requirements

The UK Border Agency requires the university to ensure that you have the required level of English language ability. There are a number of different ways through which you will be able to meet the English language requirements of a Tier 4 General visa for study at UEL. Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) will state how the University has assessed you meet the English Language Requirements. This can be through one of the following:

  • Secure English Language Test (SELT) - If you meet the English Language Requirement through an appropriate SELT, this will be stated on your CAS. For example: if you have taken IELTS, you will need to include a valid original test certificate with your application.*
  • If you have taken the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) a physical paper certificate is not required.  However, you must have a print out of your online score report*. In addition, you will also need to ensure that you have made your online results available to the UK Border Agency listing on the Pearson verification service on the Pearson website. NB This provision only applies to the PTE Academic test as no physical paper certificate is produced by the test provider for this test. Where an applicant undertakes an English language course which results in an official paper certificate, this certificate must always be submitted in support of their application
  • If you have completed an academic qualification at least equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree which was taught in a majority English-speaking country - as defined by the UKBA as Antigua and Barbuda; Australia; The Bahamas; Barbados; Belize, Dominica; Grenada; Guyana; Ireland; Jamaica; New Zealand; St Kitts and Nevis; St Lucia; St Vincent and the Grenadines; Trinidad and Tobago; United Kingdom; United States of America; You will need to provide your degree certificate*.
  • If you are from a Majority English-speaking country (as defined by the UKBA)- the UKBA will assess your nationality using your passport.  The UKBA defines these countries as: Antigua and Barbuda; Australia; The Bahamas; Barbados; Belize; Canada, Dominica; Grenada; Guyana; Jamaica; New Zealand; St Kitts and Nevis; St Lucia; St Vincent and the Grenadines; Trinidad and Tobago; United States of America
  • If you have successfully completed a course as a Tier 4 (Child) student for which you were granted your permission stay whilst you were under 18 years old. Your previous course must have been at least six months in length and ended within two years of the date that UEL issued you your CAS. You will need to provide evidence of this*.
  • Degree-level courses only: If UEL has determined, through its own methods, that you are sufficiently competent in English language to study at the level of your course. If this is based on a particular qualification or certificate and is named on your CAS, you must provide the original document*.
  • Degree-level courses only: If you are continuing on the same course at UEL and have already completed at least one semester it should be stated on your CAS that you meet the English Language requirements in line with the Tier 4 guidance for Higher Education Institutions (HEI's). In this case you will not need to provide any evidence of this.

* Please note that “Low Risk” nationals are not required to submit evidence of the above with their visa application, however it should be available for submission if requested by the UK Border Agency at a later date.

 

Academic Qualifications

The UK Border Agency require the university to ensure that you have the ability to follow the demands of your programme of study. The University may do through a number of different ways. You Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) will state how the university have determined that you meet the academic requirements. This can be through one of the following:

  • Previous educational qualifications (for example: BA (Hons) Business Studies, University of East London). You must provide any qualifications listed on your CAS, if you are not a "low risk national".
  • Other means of assessing your ability to follow the demands of the course (for example: interview, portfolio or presentation). In this case you will not have to provide evidence of this.
  • Satisfactory progress to date on the course that you are already studying. In this case you will not have to provide evidence of this.

Providing Evidence of your qualifications/ English ability

As described above, you must in some cases provide evidence of your previous qualifications or English language ability if they are mentioned on your CAS as evidence of your ability to study on your course. It is therefore very important that you read your CAS statement carefully. If you are a low risk national, you will not need to provide this evidence with your application, although you should have these documents available to you in case the UK Border Agency request them. Please see low risk nationals for more information

Documents for Visa Application

Essentials Requirements:

Other Possible Documentary Requirements (this will depend on your circumstances):

  • Documents of Previous Qualifications (If stated on your CAS)
  • Previous Passports (if applicable)
  • ATAS certificate (if applicable)
  • *Official Original Receipt of Tuition Fee payments already made (if not stated on your CAS) You can request this by emailing cashiers@uel.ac.uk
  • *Receipt of University Accommodation fees payments already made (if not stated on CAS).
  • Any other documents (depending on your circumstances)

Note: All evidence should be original and meet all the criteria as stipulated in the Tier 4 guidance notes. Any documents not in English must be accompanied by an official translation in line with the Tier 4 policy guidance.

* Please note that 'low-risk nationals' are not required to submit this evidence with the application form, but may be asked to provide it at a later date. See low risk nationals for more information

Low Risk Nationals

UKBA have introduced a streamlined process for low risk applicants whether applying in the UK or outside and going to Highly Trusted Sponsors (UEL is a Highly Trusted Sponsor), in general waiving the requirements to provide documents beyond the CAS and passport/ identity document. The list of low risk countries/nationalities includes:

  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Botswana
  • Brunei
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • Croatia
  • Hong Kong
  • Japan
  • Malaysia
  • New Zealand
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan (those who hold a passport issued by Taiwan that includes the number of the identification card issued by the competent authority in Taiwan in it)
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • United States of America or is
  • a British National Overseas

A full list can be found in Appendix H of the Immigration Rules. However, UKBA may still request documents from these nationals - so it will be necessary to prepare them anyway.

Registering with the police

Some international students are required to register with the police. If you have a student visa for more than 6 months and you are required to register with the police, it will be stamped on your visa that you must register with the police. You must do this within 7 days of arrival.

If you are required to register with the police, there is a £34 charge for the initial registration. You should take your passport, two passport sized photographs and fee. If you have a dependant who is also required to register with the police, they too must go in person for the initial registration.

Renewal of police registration, for example because you have extended your visa is free of charge.

You must notify the police of any change in address within 7 days. If any of the particulars detailed in your police registration certificate change (for example: immigration conditions, passport details, name, address, marital status or occupation) you must notify the police within 8 days.

If you live within the Greater London area, you should go to:

  • The Overseas Visitors Records Office. Ground Floor, Brandon House, 180 Borough High Street, Borough, London. SE1 1LH (nearest underground station: Borough -Northern Line)
  • Telephone number: 020 7230 1286
  • There is also a recorded information line: 020 7230 1208
  • The Overseas Visitors Records Office in Borough is normally open from 9.00 until 16.00 Monday to Friday.
  • Students living outside the Greater London area should register with the local police force.

For more information on the Police Registration Certificate see the UKBA information here.

ATAS Certificate

If you are a non- EU citizen planning to undertake some research based postgraduate study in the UK in certain science, engineering or technology disciplines, then you will need to acquire an ATAS certificate before you can apply for a visa to come into the UK or a renewal of an existing student visa in the UK.

An ATAS certificate is the Academic Technology Approval Scheme which the UK government has introduced in order "to ensure that people who are studying in the UK in sensitive subjects do not have links to Weapons of Mass Destruction Programmes"

Foreign & Commonwealth Office Logo

The process for applying for an ATAS certifcate is currently being updated (March/ April 2013). Applicants are asked not to submit an application for ATAS clearance between mid-March and 15 April 2013. If you think that this might be a problem for your Tier 4 application, please contact the ISA team isa@uel.ac.uk, as we may be able to contact the UKBA on your behalf.

For full details on the ATAS certificate and requirements see the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Website.

Click on the link for a list of courses which require an ATAS certificate

Bringing Your Family to the UK (Dependants)

You may be able to bring some family members (dependants) with you to the UK. Please click here for more information on dependants

You can download the dependants application form & guidance notes from our visa forms and guidance pages.

Advice for making a successful application

  • Check the Tier 4 rules and requirements
  • Start preparing your application around as early as possible. Do not leave it to the last minute. This is because you will need to collect a number of documents, some of which you will have to request from the university, bank etc. Also early applications allow time to resolve any problems in case of returned or refused applications.
  • Read the policy guidance, guidance notes and application forms carefully
  • See our interactive forms for guidance
  • Complete the application forms
  • Collect together all the necessary documents (* see Documents section above)
  • Take photos in line with the UK Border Agency photo guidance
  • Email isa@uel.ac.uk to clarify any doubts or ask specific questions
  • Pay the appropriate fee
  • Write a list of documents that you are submitting with your application
  • Photocopy everything for your records
  • Submit the completed application and all supporting documents
  • Arrange and attend your biometric appointment

Advice for a successful stay in the UK (immigration)

Before you arrive in the UK

  • Apply for your visa early (if possible around 2 - 3 months before your course start date)
  • Ensure that you have obtained your visa and it is all correct
  • Read UEL's pre-arrival information and welcome programme for international students
  • Read UKCISA's arriving in the UK factsheet
  • Research and prepare your accommodation in the UK in advance (try to live close to the university as possible to avoid problems)

Arriving in the UK

  • Arrive in the UK as early as possible before the start of your course and certainly before the International Student Welcome Programme. If you arrive after the start of the course, your attendance will be affected, and you may find it difficult to catch up academically. It will not be possible to enrol if you arrive after the latest enrolment date for UEL.
  • Bring enough money and/or debit/credit cards to maintain you for the first few weeks until you are able to open a bank account in the UK
  • Whilst travelling, carry with you in your hand luggage:
    • Evidence of your studies at UEL (acceptance letter/ print-out of CAS)
    • Evidence of your maintenance (you should carry up to date evidence that you still meet the maintenance requirements. If you have used any of the maintenance to pay for fees or accommodation, you should also carry the receipts for these payments)
    • Evidence of your academic and English language qualifications (as listed on your CAS)
  • Upon arrival in the UK (at the airport/ port/ station):
  • you must complete a 'landing card' at border control
  • your visa should be stamped by the immigration officer
  • an immigration officer could test that you have sufficient level of English
  • an immigration officer may check that you still have the required maintenance funds
  • If you are carrying more than £10,000 in cash, you must declare this at customs
  • do not bring prohibited items into the UK (including certain food items )

Enrolment at UEL

  • Attend fully the International Student Welcome Programme, first week activities and induction programme
  • Enrol promptly and register your modules on time
  • Familiarise yourself with the University services and facilities
  • Register with your local doctor and open a UK bank account

During your studies

  • Attend all of your classes fully
  • Use the help and support available to you in the University
  • Submit coursework and take all assessments on time

General points

  • If you have any problems or concerns seek help and advice (see our Useful Links for further information)
  • Do not break the immigration rules in any way
  • Keep copies of all important documents (passport, visa, university correspondence, CAS and all completed Visa application forms and documents submitted with applications).

Length of Time on Visa

The guidance for Tier 4 (General) states that successful applications should be granted until the expected completion date of the course (as stated on your university record and CAS at the time of application) and some additional time depending on the length and type of course.

  • Courses of one year or more - expected end date of the course + four months.
  • Pre-sessional / Pre Masters course - expected end date of the course + one month.
  • Other courses less than 12 months but more than 6 months - end of course + 2 months
  • Short courses of less than 6 months - end of course + 7 days

Note: If you think that you have not received the correct length of time on your visa (end date on your visa letter + extra time as above) see section on Incorrect Visa?

 

Please note: The time spent on study at degree level by Tier 4 (General) Students is limited to five years, with some exceptions. Click here for more information.

Errors on Visa

When you are issued with your Tier 4 visa - always check that all the details are correct. In particular check that the following are correct:

  • Your name
  • Your date of birth
  • Your passport number
  • The start date
  • The end date
  • UEL's sponsor Licence number
  • If you are required to register with the police - this is stated
  • Working conditions

If any of these details are incorrect, you should contact the issuing embassy or high commission to request a correction.

Incorrect length of time on Visa?

The guidance for Tier 4 (General) states that successful applications should be granted until the expected completion date of the course (as stated on the CAS at the time of application) and some additional time depending on the length and type of course.

  • Courses of one year or more - expected end date of the course + four months.
  • Pre-sessional/Pre Masters course - expected end date of the course + one month.
  • Other courses less than 12 months but more than 6 months - end of course + 2 months
  • Short courses of less than 6 months - end of course + 7 days

If you discover that any of the details on your visa are incorrect after arriving in the UK is wrong, we may be able to request that it be corrected free of charge through the Entry Clearance Correction Scheme which is offered by the Student Liaison Team at the UK Border Agency in Sheffield. Contact us at isa@uel.ac.uk

Please note: We are only able to request entry clearance correction on your behalf if you bring us your passport and International Acceptance Letter more than 1 month before the expiry date of your visa, the sooner the better.

Useful links for Visas and Immigration

Comments & Suggestions:

Did you find these webpages useful? Is there anything that could be improved/ amended? If you have any comments or suggestions regarding our webpages and its contents, we would be happy to hear from you. Please email any comments/ suggestions to isa@uel.ac.uk

Updated 08/04/13

Tier 4 Sponsor Licence

University of East London (UEL) holds a Tier 4 Sponsor Licence and is listed on the UKBA register as a Highly Trusted Sponsor

Useful links

  1. Accommodation
  2. Language Centre

 

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