Students protest outside the prime minister's residence (AFP, Carl Court)
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The UK Border Agency has revoked (withdrawn) London Metropolitan University's licence to sponsor students from outside the European Union.
The withdrawal of London Metropolitan University's licence means that it is removed from the register of licensed sponsors, and students from outside the European Union are no longer allowed to study at the university.
We understand that international students at London Metropolitan University may be concerned.
London Metropolitan University students who are already in the UK with a current, valid UK visa do not need to do anything immediately.
A government-led taskforce is being created, which will include the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), Universities UK, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), the UK Border Agency and the National Union of Students. This will work with London Metropolitan to support those affected and enable appropriately qualified genuine students to find another institution where they can continue their studies in the UK. The taskforce will start work immediately.
If an existing London Metropolitan University student with a current, valid visa is on holiday outside the UK, they can return to the UK.
New students who were planning to travel to the UK to start studying with London Metropolitan University should not travel.
A UK Border Agency spokesperson said:
'These are problems with 1 university, not the whole sector. British universities are among the best in the world - and Britain remains a top-class destination for top-class international students.'We are doing everything possible, working with the taskforce established by BIS, to assist students that have been affected.'
The UK Council for International Student Affairs has also explained how students might be affected by university visa licencing issues. Here is some of the information they are offering:
- If you have already paid a deposit to the institution which has had its sponsor licence withdrawn you will need to contact them directly to request any refund you are entitled to. You should not attempt to enter the UK on this visa.
- If your institution has closed the UKBA will write to you and shorten your leave. Make sure the UKBA always has your current address.
- Your permission to stay will be shortened to 60 days from the date on the letter from the UKBA. You must leave the UK or find an alternative institution within that time.
For more information go to the UKCISA website & UK Border Agency
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