UK lifts temporary suspension on visa applications in India

On August 12,the UK Border Agency will further lift the suspension on the remaining courses below degree,with the exception of English language courses.

The UK Border Agency will continue to keep the suspension of English language courses under review.

The temporary suspension of all new Tier 4 applications was implemented on February 1,2010 in three application centres in North India – Jalandhar,Chandigarh and New Delhi.

The suspension was partially lifted on March 2 for foundation degrees and degree and postgraduate courses.

A foundation degree means a programme of study which leads to a qualification awarded by a UK higher education institution with degree awarding powers,which is at a minimum of level 5 on the revised National Qualifications Framework.

The UK Border Agency will also introduce on August 12 a secure English language test requirement for Tier 4 (General Student) visas worldwide.

Applicants who are studying courses below degree level,excluding foundation degrees and English language courses,need to pass the English language test.

This test must be taken with a UK Border Agency-approved provider before the applicant applies for a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the education sponsor.

Applicants who make Tier 4 (General Student) visa applications to study the above courses from August 12 and using a CAS issued from this date will need to pass the new secure English language test.