Please note that this section is only a summary for guidance purposes; please visit the UKBA website for detailed and up-to-date information, on http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/. Thames College Berkshire will endeavour to keep the latest immigration information in this section. More detailed guidance on how to apply for a visa, and the conditions of your stay, will also be sent with the CAS Letter for successful students.

It is very important for anyone entering the UK as a student to comply with UK immigration requirements. Following the introduction of the Points Based System (PBS), all educational establishments offering courses of study to non-EEA / non-Swiss nationals are required to obtain a Tier 4 Sponsorship License from the UK Border Agency (UKBA) in order to be able to issue Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

All students from outside the EEA and Switzerland must apply for a Tier 4 Student Visa, at their nearest British High Commission / Embassy / Consulate.

To apply for a Tier 4 Student Visa you must meet all of the following conditions:

You must have been issued a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a Tier 4 Sponsor, for a course that is Level 4 or above on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF);

You must be able and intend to follow a full-time degree course, or a weekday full-time course involving at least 15 hours per week of organized, daytime study;

You must be able to meet the costs of your course and maintenance (living expenses, including accommodation) and the maintenance of your dependants without working in the UK or claiming public funds;

You must not intend to work in the UK except part-time (20 hours per week maximum for Level 6+ courses, 10 hours per week maximum for Level 4 and 5 courses) or vacation work;

You must intend to leave the UK at the end of your studies.

The cost of applying for a Tier 4 visa is currently £199 (Subject to change: check on http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk/adult-students/visa-fees

ASIC provides an accreditation service for independent further and higher education colleges.

ASIC is recognised by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS), the United Kingdom Border and Immigration Agency (UK BIA) and Ofsted.

ASIC accreditation gives reassurance to potential students, their parents and education representatives that their chosen college conforms to relevant United Kingdom laws and regulations and offers courses leading to recognised qualifications.

For Further Details on ASIC Please visit on: www.asic.org.uk