A good education agent will help you to:
Completed the British Council
Education Agent Training Programme
Agents that have completed the training are listed on
the British Council website: https://www.britishcouncil.
org/education/agents-counsellors/database
Committed to the National Code of Ethical Practice for UK Education Agents
The National Code sets out the behaviours and values that are expected of education agents that represent the UK.
Supported by:
Use this checklist to identify good quality education agents:
| Do the agent offices/staff seem professional and friendly? | Yes |
|---|---|
| Is the education agent listed on the British Council website: https://www.britishcouncil.org/education/agents-counsellors/database | Yes |
| If you know where you want to apply, is the education agent listed as an official representative or partner on the school/college/university website? | Yes |
| What are other students saying about the education agent on social media? Note: Even the best agent can’t make everybody happy but this will help you decide if they are right for you. | Yes |
Here are some questions to ask that will help you select a good 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 is and show you a copy. Familiarise
yourself with the National Code to see how your education agent is doing.
Most schools/colleges/universities pay a commission for the agent to represent
them, and this covers the agent’s operating costs, so the answer will usually be ‘yes’.
Regardless of whether the agent is paid a commission or not, they should give you
high-quality and unbiased advice.
Agent fees are typically covered by the school/college/university, but education
agents may charge fees for some 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 institutions that you plan to apply to.
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 on the British Council’s website.
There are many good education agents that are not licensed UK immigration
advisors. They are still experts that can help you with your student visa application. It is
important that you receive clear and accurate advice as the wrong immigration advice
could have serious consequences. In the UK licensed advisors will be registered with
the OISC or the Law society. Check with government sources in your own country and
beware of trusting unverified information such as online forums.
Good education agents will regularly attend training by their partner institutions,
the British Council, and UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). For more information and
advice on visa and immigration, please visit https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information--
Advice/Visas-and-Immigration/Student-immigration-the-basics
Some education agents offer additional help after you arrive in the UK,
e.g. providing visa updates, accommodation support, etc.
Most schools/colleges/universities pay a commission for the agent to represent
them, and this covers the agent’s operating costs, so the answer will usually be ‘yes’.
Regardless of whether the agent is paid a commission or not, they should give you
high-quality and unbiased advice.
You have a question?
A client that's unhappy for a reason is a problem