Does the Points-Based System affect me? - Academic Services

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Applying for a course or about to accept an unconditional offer

You should think very carefully before choosing your course and university.
The Points-Based System will make it difficult to change university after arriving in the UK.
You will need permission from the UK Border Agency to change, and you will not be allowed to study while waiting for that permission.
The process of getting permission is likely to cost more and may be very slow.
There is no guarantee that permission to change will be granted.
If you are thinking of changing course or university please contact the International Students Advisory Service (ISAS)

Starting at University of Birmingham

You need to register with the University as soon as possible.
Once you have completed the online registration, please collect your University ID card.
You will need to present your passport before an ID card is issued. Your passport will be scanned as the University needs to keep copies of various documents relating to your leave.
If you fail to register with the University during the normal registration period (for September starters, this is usually end of September until 31 October), the University will need to report this to the UK Border Agency and this will result in you having to return to your home country.
If you have any concerns about this advice please contact the International Students Advisory Service (ISAS)

Currently studying in the UK and need an extension

The Points-Based System will affect you when you require an extension of your permission to remain in the UK as a student.
You will need to acquire a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number from Academic and Student Services in order to apply for your visa extension.
See the International Students Advisory Service (ISAS) pages for information on visas or contact ISAS directly.

Points-Based System during my studies

You must have a good attendance record whilst studying.
If you miss a large amount of your course without getting agreement you will be reported to the immigration authorities.
Universities need to define 10 points of contact between themselves as education providers and their visa national students.
You must make every effort to pass each stage of your course, and progress well.
If you need a visa extension because you have spent longer than usual finishing your course you will be charged extra for the extension application and the UK Border Agency will need a reason from you to explain why it has taken you longer to complete your studies.
The University cannot legally sponsor students who are on part-time courses if the student is in the UK on a Tier 4 (Student) visa.
If you would like to change to your student status, such as interrupting your studies, contact the International Students Advisory Service (ISAS)

About to graduate or have just graduated

If you wish to remain in the UK to work after your studies, please contact International Students Advisory Service (ISAS)
The period of leave for a degree level course, or above, lasting more than twelve months is the length of the course plus four months at the end. In most cases this means you will be able to attend your graduation under your current visa.

For more information on the new system and how the University is managing the situation, please contact the Points Based System Project Officer

The only service on campus legally qualified to give students immigration advice is the International Students Advisory Service (ISAS), based in the Aston Webb Building.

Further information on studying in the UK.