Change in UK Tier 4 student visa rules

All students applying to study in the UK under Tier 4 of the points-based system must possess a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from their sponsor from February 22.

The CAS will replace the Visa Letter for overseas Tier 4 applications on February 22. The CAS is a virtual document not an actual certificate, and it contains a unique 14 digit electronic reference number.

Visa Letter will no longer be accepted in support of a Tier 4 visa application from February 22. Sponsors will provide students with a unique CAS reference number to quote in their visa application.

The CAS contains information about the course of study for which it has been issued and the student 's personal details. Like the Visa Letter, the CAS will become invalid if not used to make a visa application within six months of issue.

Holding a valid CAS does not guarantee that a student's application will be successful. Students must meet the requirements of Tier 4 and the Immigration Rules. Students may hold several CASs issued by different sponsors, but can only use one to apply for a Tier 4 visa.