The UK Border Agency (UKBA) is writing to international students to inform them of whether or not they have a guaranteed place at the London Metropolitan University.
Back in August 2012, the UKBA revoked the London Met's right to sponsor overseas students due to what it saw as excessive numbers of students flouting the Tier 4 rules regarding studying in the UK.
Now, the agency will inform genuine students if they have a place at the university. If the officials are satisfied that a student is enrolled legally at the university, they will write to inform the individual that they can continue their studies until the end of the academic year or the end of their course – whichever comes first.
Meanwhile, any Tier 4 permit applicant who has applied to transfer to another higher education institution and is still awaiting a decision should receive confirmation by January 18th. Students awaiting this information can continue their studies at the Met until this date.
These options should cover all students who responded to the UKBA in October 2012 after the problems with the London Met hit the headlines. Students were asked if they wanted to remain at London Met, transfer to a new sponsor or leave the UK.
Those who did not respond by the October 31st date and who have not applied to obtain leave to remain in the country through another migration route will receive notice shortly informing them that their leave will be curtailed if they have more than 60 days remaining.
Students were disrupted in their study by the problems, with many unable to return to their home country for the Christmas period due to visa delays. There is a growing concern that problems with student immigration and decisions to curtail students working rights will have a negative impact on Britain's economy if the country loses its status as a desirable place for overseas study.