We offer comprehensive solutions to colleges covering:

• Compliance with the UKBA requirements for Highly Trusted sponsors;
• Applications for Highly Trusted Status;
• Staff training;
• Issuing CAS;
• Student visa applications;
• Challenging adverse decisions, including decisions to downgrade or suspend sponsorhip licence.

We also assist Higher Education institutions in bringing to the UK sponsored researchers, including post doctoral fellows or project researchers, under the Tier 5 (Temporary workers - government authorised exchange) scheme. 

We handle the whole package of the sponsor's immigration requirements, including visa applications for spondees and, where necessary, appeals against refusal.

Educational Institutions wishing to provide courses for international students must obtain a Tier 4 sponsorship licence from the UK Border Agency.

At present, Sponsors will either be on the Tier 4 Highly Trusted register of sponsors or on the standard register of sponsors where they will be rated as either A (Trusted) or B (Sponsor). Highly trusted sponsors have to demonstrate the highest levels of compliance with their sponsor duties and in return are able to offer a wider range of course levels and work placement opportunities. The B (sponsor) rating is a transitional rating and means that the sponsor is working towards the next level of accreditation.

From April 2012, all Tier 4 Sponsors must become Highly Trusted Sponsors and must have been inspected, audited or reviewed by one of the authorised bodies.

Policy guidance for Tier 4 sponsors - valid from 5th September 2011

Guidance for issuing CAS, October 2011