20th April, 2010

Further changes to Tier 4 of the Points Based System (PBS) came into force on the 6^th April 2010 following a recent review. The changes affect non EU students and educational providers who act as sponsors under Tier 4.

The Tier 4 immigration changes include adjustments to the rules governing the new Highly Trusted Sponsor licence. Only sponsors who hold the Highly Trusted Sponsor licence can now offer the following courses, known as ‘restricted courses' to Tier 4 Students:

• Courses at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level 3 or equivalent
• Courses below degree level that include a work placement (other than foundation degrees, which can still be offered with a work placement by any Tier 4 (general) sponsor)

Education providers that hold a Tier 4 sponsor licence are only able to offer courses at or above NQF level 4 or equivalent. They cannot offer courses that include work placements unless those colleges are degree-level or foundation degrees.

If a non-EU student is studying a ‘restricted course' at an institution that does not hold a Highly Trusted Sponsor licence, they can continue to study at the institution until their course is completed or their permission to stay under Tier 4 expires, whichever is sooner. If a student wishes to extend their stay to complete their studies on an affected course, they must do so at an institution that holds a Highly Trusted Sponsor licence.

For more information or assistance with Tier 4 licences or visas please contact the Smooth team on 0207 232 5875 or email us at info@smoothmigration.com.