Home Office Approves Extra Student Visas for UCL Foreign Students

Several hundred overseas scholars will successfully claim their offered university positions following negotiations between the government visa authorities and UCL wrapped up with the government granting additional visas.

Immigration Allocation Problems

Numerous of learners, a significant number from the Chinese mainland, found themselves in uncertainty after UCL miscalculated the demand for study spots this year and exceeded its quota of study acceptance confirmation electronic documents permitted by the immigration authorities.

Institution Regret and Compensation

UCL offered apologies to those affected, advising them it was "extremely sorry for the interruption and uncertainty", and giving to compensate £1,000 fees for applications made through British visa authorities' "super priority service".

We're delighted to guarantee our concerned foreign learners that they can finally start their education at University College London.

Extraordinary Demand

The university said "an unprecedented increase in interest" was caused by the surplus intake, and had initially advised scholars with guaranteed spots that they should delay until the subsequent session, causing many to voice dissatisfaction they experienced financial losses after advance payment for travel and lodging.

Favorable Outcome

Subsequent to talks between the university and the immigration authorities at the close of last weekend, scholars were advised that they would be granted entry permits in the end.

An official representative for University College London said: "We wholeheartedly apologize to all those who have been impacted by the recent uncertainty and we are exceptionally grateful for their understanding. Our personnel are now working quickly to reach out to students personally with updates and help.

Student Reactions

Several learners reported they had been sent emails from the university within the past 48 hours indicating their electronic certificates would be released, a essential requirement to be issued a study permit. Some mentioned they had not yet obtained confirmation.

An applicant said: "I am overjoyed to be able to study in the United Kingdom. We were advised conflicting messages since the previous month, it was incredibly challenging. I was already obligated to covering costs for housing in the city, with non-refundable payments available, so I am extremely grateful."

National Impact

About 200 learners from China were affected, with several already in the United Kingdom at the close of last month for the commencement of the university term. Those on graduate studies were told they had to be on campus by 10 October or give up their position.

We cannot thank you enough for your cooperation with this process and we are truly apologetic for the disturbance and uncertainty which this will have created you.