Points Based System (PBS)
What is the Points Based System?
The Points Based System is the most radical reworking of the UK's immigration system in a generation. It involves the consolidation of 80+ routes in to the UK in to a structured 5 tier system. Applicants now need to pass a points-based assessment to enter or remain in the UK.
It applies to everyone who needs immigration permission to come to the UK to work or study, and to all organisations that offer them employment and/or courses of study. Applicants in all tiers except Tier 1 will require a sponsor.
The five tiers and their implementation dates can be seen in the table below:
| Tier 1 | High value migrants in the following categories: Exceptional Talent - for those who are recognised or have the potential to be recognised as leaders in the fields of science and the arts Entrepreneur - for those who want to set up or take over, and be actively involved in running a business in the UK Investor - for those who want to make a substantial financial investment in the UK General - this category is now closed to applicants outside the UK and to migrants who are already here in most other immigration categories Post-study work - from 6th April 2012 this category is closed to all new applicants. | Introduced in phases between 29 February to 30 June 2008. |
| Tier 2 | Skilled workers with a job offer | 27th November 2008 |
| Tier 3 | Low skilled workers to fill specific temporary labour shortages | Currently no plans to introduce this tier |
| Tier 4 | Students | Introduced in phases between the end of March 2009 to February 2010 |
| Tier 5 | Youth mobility and temporary workers | 27th November 2008 |
Tier 4 of the Points Based System
If you want to apply to extend your stay in the UK as a student you will now have to apply under Tier 4 of the Points Based System and pass a points-based assessment.
Tier 4 consists of two sub-categories:
- Adult Student (also known as General Student) – for post-16 education
- Child Student – for children aged between 4 and 16 attending independent schools.
There is detailed information about coming or staying in the UK as an adult student under Tier 4 of the Points Based System on the UKBA website. You can also download the Tier 4 Policy Guidance document from this website.
You can check the UKCISA website for the latest news in relation to the Points Based System.
We have produced a detailed 'Guide to extending your student visa under Tier 4 of the Points Based System’. This guide can be obtained from the Student Support Centre.
There are a number of responsibilities for both students and Universities under the Points Based System. Whilst you are in the UK on a student visa you are responsible for complying with the immigration rules that allow you to enter and remain in the UK. The University also has legal duties as a licensed sponsor. More information is available from our "Visa Rules and Responsibilities" web page.