New Rules for Student Visa Extension 2011

From 21 April 2011 there have been many changes to Tier 4 of the UK’s Points Based System. These changes do not just apply to out-country applications but also to people applying for a student visa renewal. We’ve put together this quick overview of the new student visa extension requirements following a lot of questions and searches from you.

New Student Visa Extension Rules for Students of Highly Trusted Sponsors

Courses at NQF level 3 or aboveEnglish language courses at level CEFR B2Courses with work placements that form an assessed part of the course

New Student Visa Extension Rules for Students of A or B Rated Sponsors

Courses at NQF level 4 or aboveEnglish language courses at level CEFR B2No courses with work placements that form an assessed part of the course below NQF level 6

New Rules for Student Visa Extension: English Language Ability How your sponsor assesses your English language ability will now depend on:When your CAS was assignedWhat type of course you are studyingWhat type of education provider your sponsor isAt any time during your application, whether in-country or out-country, you may be called for interview to check your English ability. If your English level is clearly not up to standard, your application may be refused and/or you could be refused entry to the UK at the airport.

Student Visa Renewal: If your CAS was issued before 21 April 2011

The old rules apply for your CAS to be valid. That is, if you are studying a course below NQF level 6, or an English language programme, your CAS will be valid as long as your sponsor assessed your English language level to be CEFR B1.Those students who did not take English test, but instead had their English level assessed by their sponsor will still be able to make an application with a CAS assigned before 21 April 2011.

Student Visa Renewal: If your CAS was issued on or after 21 April 2011

Have English at level CEFR B2 if studying a course at NQF level 6 and aboveHave English at level CEFR B1 if studying a course at NQF level 5 or below

Student Visa Extensions with a Recognised Higher Education Institution

If studying a course at NQF level 6 or above at a Recognised Higher Education Institution:Your sponsor can choose how to assess your English ability, including administering their own tests. Students will have to be assessed in the four skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening.With the approval of the Academic Registrar of the education provider, “gifted students” can have the English level requirement waived entirely.

Student Visa Extensions with a non-Recognised Higher Education Institution

Students studying courses at NQF level 6 or above must demonstrate their English level in all four English skills at level CEFR B2 by presenting a Secure English Language Test certificate.Students studying courses at NQF level 5 or below must demonstrate their English level in all four English skills at level CEFR B1 by presenting a Secure English Language Test certificate.

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