New requirements for student applications under Tier 4 of the points-based system have come into effect from 3rd March 2010.
The new requirements are as follows:
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UK Border Agency has raised the minimum level of English language course that Tier 4 (General) students can study, to level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Before student can apply to study an English language course in the UK, you will need to show that your English language skills are at CEFR level B1 or higher. (There are exceptions if you are a government-sponsored student or if you want to study a pre-sessional English course that meets certain requirements.)
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If student is applying under Tier 4 (General) to study a course that is below degree level and is not a foundation degree, UKBA has reduced the amount of work that student can do during term time to 10 hours per week. (The maximum level used to be 20 hours per week).
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If student is applying under Tier 4 (Child) and is 16 or 17 years old, UKBA has reduced the amount of work that student can do during term time to 10 hours per week. (The maximum level used to be 20 hours per week).
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If student is applying to study a course under Tier 4 (General) for six months or less, student will no longer be able to bring dependants.
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If student is applying to study a course lower than degree level (excluding foundation degree courses) under Tier 4 (General), dependants will no longer be able to work (unless they qualify to work in their own right under Tier 1 or Tier 2 of the points-based system).
All applications submitted before 3rd March 2010 will be considered against the rules that were in force at the time of application.
Further changes will be introduced from April 2010