New Tier 4 Rules for English Proficiency & Work Entitlement

In the last three (3) months, UK has introduced major changes in Tier 4 student visa policy. partial changes were announced in April 2011 and then at 4 July now. As per new rules, all students, irrespective of level of study, should demonstrate their English language proficiency at required level. Level of English proficiency is set out as under;

Student enrolled in Level 6 or higher

All students who are enrolled in level 6 or higher at a British institute, must prove his/her English language proficiency to at least B2 level. B2 level is equal to 5.5 bands in all four modules (listening, reading, writing and speaking) of IELTS or equivalent.

Students enroled in Level 5 or below

All students who are enrolled in level 5 or below at a British institute, must prove his/her English language proficiency to at least B1 level. B1 level is equal to 4.0 bands in all four modules (listening, reading, writing and speaking) of IELTS or equivalent.

Work Entitlement

As per new Tier 4 rules, only students at Higher Eduction Institutes or Public funded colleges will be allowed to work part time. All students studying at private colleges will no longer get work entitlement during their stay in United Kingdom.

Bringing Dependents

Right to bring dependents has also been limited to the students studying at post graduate level at universities or public funded colleges.