UK Immigration Authorities Grants Additional Entry Permits for UCL Overseas Scholars
Hundreds foreign learners will now be able to claim their offered places after discussions among the government visa authorities and UCL finished with the government granting additional student visas.
Study Permit Allocation Difficulties
Numerous of students, many from the Chinese mainland, were stuck in a difficult situation after University College London underestimated the demand for places this year and surpassed its allowance of CAS online certificates allowed by the UK visa officials.
University Apology and Financial Support
UCL expressed regret to those impacted, telling them it was "extremely sorry for the disruption and confusion", and giving to pay £1,000 costs for applications made through British visa authorities' "super priority service".
We're delighted to guarantee our affected international students that they can at last commence their studies at University College London.
Exceptional Demand
The university said "an extraordinary surge in interest" was responsible for the excessive admissions, and had at first told students with guaranteed positions that they should delay until the following academic year, leading many to voice dissatisfaction they encountered financial losses after pre-paying for travel and lodging.
Positive Solution
Subsequent to talks between the university and the Home Office at the end of last Friday, learners were advised that they would receive entry permits ultimately.
A spokesperson for UCL said: "We wholeheartedly apologise to all those who have been affected by the recent period of uncertainty and we are incredibly grateful for their understanding. Our teams are now moving rapidly to reach out to students individually with news and support.
Applicant Reactions
Some applicants mentioned they had been sent electronic messages from the university within the recent couple of days indicating their CAS documents would be released, a key necessity to be granted a student visa. Some reported they had still not obtained verification.
A learner expressed: "I'm thrilled to be able to pursue education in the Britain. We were advised conflicting messages since recent weeks, it was incredibly challenging. I was already obligated to arranging housing in the city, with no refund possible, so I am quite thankful."
Regional Effect
Roughly 200 learners from East Asia were concerned, with some already in the UK at the close of last month for the beginning of the university term. Those on graduate studies were advised they had to be on campus by 10 October or give up their place.
We cannot thank you enough for your cooperation with this matter and we are truly apologetic for the disturbance and doubt which this will have created you.