UKBA has recently introduced targeted interviews with students

The United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA) has recently introduced targeted credibility interviews to the visa application process from 30^th July 2012.

The United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA) has recently introduced targeted credibility interviews to the visa application process. From 30^th July 2012 visa applicants can be interviewed for credibility if their application appears to be false.

Please note that NOT ALL students will be called for an interview, the UKBA plans to interview up to 5% of applicants this year. However, we believe you should be aware of the new visa policy and inform your students accordingly.

The Entry Clearance Officer (ECO) may call students for an interview (even if they fulfil all Tier 4 Points Based System requirements such as IELTS, Finances, etc.) and can still refuse the student under the new credibility grounds if they are not satisfied they are a genuine student. The Officer may also refuse to issue entry clearance where the applicant fails to attend an interview without providing a reasonable explanation.

Therefore, it is essential that if a student is called for an interview, they are able to satisfy the officer that they fulfil the required criteria as outlined below:

• Ability to speak English (regardless of IELTS score)

• Academic background (if there are any study gaps – why?)

• Plans to return home after studies (what connections they have at home and in the UK)

• Finances (where the money has come from?)

We hope all students successfully get their visas and start their studies in the UK in time!

If you have any further questions on the new UKBA policy, please contact Open World Education Group, tel +7 495 228 0300.

Source: http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk