Many changes to the UK Border Agency’s immigration rules came into effect on April 6, 2010. Along with implementing changes to the UK Tier 1 and Tier 2 visa categories the agency has made changes to the Tier 4 visa category of the Points-based system. However, the alterations to the Tier 4 that is related to the international students and UK education providers are likely to affect both the parties involved. The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) recommended all these changes.

On April 6, the UK Border Agency implemented a new category of license called the Highly Trusted sponsor license. From now, Tier 4 education providers can obtain the license, given they produce a track record of registering genuine students in respect of abiding by the UK’ immigration rules. Below are some courses that can be provided only by those sponsors who have a Highly Trusted sponsor license. The courses are better known as ‘Restricted Courses’ for the Tier 4 (General) students. They are:

• National Qualifications Framework level 3 courses or courses equivalent to them.
• Below degree level courses, barring foundation degrees, where students are provided with work placements.

This means overseas students who want to enroll themselves in any of the above-mentioned courses; they have to find a sponsor that holds the Highly Trusted sponsor status! So, international students who have filed applications under Tier 4 category on or after April 6, 2010, they will be able to study Restricted Courses, only if their sponsor has a Highly Trusted sponsor license. However, those with valid Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies assigned before April 6 would be judged as per the rules in force on April 5, 2010.

For more information on the UK Tier 4 visa category, contact an Immigration and visa consultant!