A student and parent guide to choosing an education agent

What you should expect from your education agent

• A well trained agent will explain the UK education system, the different regions of the UK and the schools/colleges/universities they represent. They should give you a good understanding of the many options open to you in the UK.
• They should know what the national code of ethical practice for UK education agents is and show you a copy. Familiarise yourself with the national code to see how your education agent is doing.
• Many education agents will regularly attend training delivered by their partner education providers, the British Council, and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
• The UK does not require a licence for agents to recruit students to UK universities, colleges or schools but agents operating in your country may require a local licence. Do your research beforehand to find out if this applies in your own country. This may include checking with your government’s education department or official agent association websites.
• Agent fees are typically covered by the school/college/university in the form of a commission payment, which covers the agent’s operating costs. Regardless of whether the agent is paid a commission or not, they should give you high-quality and unbiased advice.
• Some education agents may charge for additional services. They should be clear with you at the start of the process if they will charge you any fees and what they are for. If you are unsure you may check with the education providers that you plan to apply to.
• Agents cannot provide you with favourable entry requirements, alternative application options, or access to information that differs from a student applying directly. If an agent claims to be able to do this, contact the education provider you are applying to, report it, and seek clarification.
• Agents should have clear information about what you can do if you are not satisfied with the services they have provided you with. If you follow the agent’s complaints process but your issue is still not resolved, talk to the education providers you are applying to, and seek their advice.
• If you are not satisfied with the institution’s response, you may be eligible to complain to an ombudsman. In England and Wales, this can be done through the Office of the Independent Adjudicator, in Scotland it is the Scottish Public Service Ombudsman, and in Northern Ireland, it is the Northern Ireland Public Service Ombudsman. You should check with the ombudsman website to see if your complaint is eligible or contact them for further information.
• Many education agents may not be licenced UK immigration advisors but can still provide you with effective guidance with your student visa application. If you receive immigration advice from an agent, make sure you also understand the requirements you need to meet. You can find advice on how to apply and how to protect your immigration status once you are in the UK at gov.uk, UKCISA and Study UK. You can also seek this support from the institution you will study at.
• You can ask to speak to students the education agent has previously placed in the UK. Speaking to them can be a useful way to find out about their experiences. Remember every student’s situation is different so their application or visa processes may differ from yours.
• Some education agents offer additional help after you arrive in the UK, e.g. providing visa updates, accommodation support, etc.