Sponsor compliance and licence framework

Licensed student sponsors must maintain compliance across immigration reporting, record-keeping, and the three UKVI RAG metrics. Non-compliance escalates from Amber band through licence curtailment or revocation.

UK sponsor compliance framework under RAG

RAG adds automatic band assignment and CAS enforcement on top of existing sponsor duties under Part 3 of the Immigration Rules.

• Accurate CAS and reporting data
• Right-to-study checks and attendance monitoring
• Refusal, enrolment, and completion performance

UKVI student sponsor register

All licensed sponsors appear on the public register. Band ratings are expected to publish from summer 2027. Until then, monitor metrics internally and via intelligence sources.

Frequently asked questions

How do universities maintain sponsor licence compliance?

Keep all three RAG metrics above thresholds, maintain reporting accuracy, and respond to UKVI compliance visits and requests.

What happens if a university gets Red rating?

Minimum 10% CAS cut, heightened scrutiny, and potential licence action.

Related guides and tools

• Our compliance methodology
• Compliance intelligence for universities

Help about band assignments

Band assignments on this site reflect independent compliance intelligence monitoring. They are not official UKVI publications. UKVI is expected to publish sponsor ratings on the register from summer 2027. Always verify status with your institution before applying or paying deposits.

Sources

• UK Home Office — Restoring Control Over the Immigration System (White Paper, May 2025)
• UKVI Register of Licensed Sponsors (Students)

Explore the UKVI RAG framework

Search sponsor band status or read the full compliance guide.