News and updates

• All Tier 4 visa extension applications from inside the UK should now be made on-line. Please contact ISAO for further information.

• Students due to complete their PhD programme within 60 days, can now apply for a visa extension under the Doctorate Extension Scheme. This allows students one year to remain in the UK to find work with a Tier 2 employer, set up as an entrepreneur, or to gain practical work experience in their field. It will operate within Tier 4, reflecting the fact that it is a sponsored scheme offering an extension of leave to existing students.

• WARNING: Telephone fraud targeting international students. For more information please visit the UKCISA website.

• Biometric enrolments: Good news for all our international students here on a Tier 4 visa and in need of a visa extension. From 10 April 2012, you will be able to get your biometrics (finger prints and digital picture) taken at 2 post offices in Edinburgh. No need to go to Glasgow or Aberdeen anymore. Please note, new costs apply (£19.20) .
• Did you know that the School of Management and Languages offers free "Improve your English" classes every Wednesday afternoon? For more information, please contact SML.
• The ISAO has a drop-in session every Wednesday afternoon between 2 and 3.30pm. If you have a quick query and need to speak to an advisor, please pop in the office and we will be happy to help!
• The Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) has issued an amber alert about international students being used as money mules. For more information, please check the SOCA website.
• REMINDER: All international students subject to immigration control (who hold a UK visa) need to present their new visa to the student centre in Hugh Nisbet building every time they get a new visa or a visa extension.

Pre-Arrival Guide for International Students 2012-13 (2.28MB, PDF)