Quick answer
UKVI RAG is a traffic-light rating (Green, Amber, Red) for UK university sponsors based on visa refusal, enrolment, and completion rates. The worst metric sets the band. It replaces BCA from 1 June 2026.
UKVI RAG full form and definition
RAG means Red-Amber-Green. UKVI assigns every licensed student sponsor one of three bands based on visa refusal rate, student enrolment rate, and course completion rate. The worst single metric determines the overall band — not an average.
This is an operational compliance framework for sponsors. It is separate from the public Register of Licensed Sponsors, though UKVI is expected to publish band ratings on the register from summer 2027.
Who UKVI RAG affects
Students and agents use band status to judge CAS and visa risk before accepting offers. Universities, compliance officers, and admissions teams use it to monitor sponsor licence exposure, CAS allocation, and recruitment planning.
- International applicants choosing between offers
- Education agents advising on institutional risk
- University compliance and registry teams
- Admissions teams managing offer-to-CAS conversion
How to check a university RAG rating
Use the university band checker to search by institution name. Green band sponsors meet all thresholds. Amber band sponsors may have CAS frozen. Red band sponsors face CAS cuts and elevated licence risk.
Frequently asked questions
What is UKVI RAG in simple terms?
A traffic-light rating system (Green, Amber, Red) for UK university sponsors based on visa refusal, enrolment, and completion data. Effective 1 June 2026.
Is UKVI RAG the same as UKVIRAG?
Yes — UKVIRAG and UKVI RAG refer to the same Red-Amber-Green sponsor compliance framework.
How does UKVI RAG work?
UKVI monitors three metrics per sponsor. If any metric falls below its threshold, the sponsor moves to Amber or Red band with automatic CAS consequences.
Related guides and tools
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
Explore the UKVI RAG framework
Search sponsor band status or read the full compliance guide.