Hey everyone, thank you for the fantastic response to last week's introductory post! Today, we're delving into a topic I get asked about often: the appropriate length for a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) when sponsoring child students.
🔑 Key Point: Best Practice for CAS Length vs. Key Stages
While the official UKVI guidance may not explicitly define the limitations of CAS length across educational stages, best practices from past UKVI compliance audits offer some clarity.
🚫 Common Mistake: Crossing Key Stages
For instance, crossing from GCSE to A-Level within a single CAS has been noted as a breach of compliance in previous inspections. These are two distinct key stages, and best practice dictates that each should have its own CAS. Refer to the below example picture of an incorrect CAS and a correct CAS.
👨🏫 Another Example: Pre A-Level CAS
Similarly, issuing a three-year CAS covering both Pre A-Level and A-Level programs was flagged during an inspection. Best practice suggests these should also be separate CASs.
✅ The Exception: Prep School Ages
For younger students at prep school ages, starting from Reception, a CAS lasting up to six years is generally acceptable, as they are within a single educational stage.
📚 Why This Matters
Failing to heed these best practices can put your institution at risk during UKVI compliance audits. Moreover, it can have negative implications for the students you're sponsoring.
📬 Questions or Future Topics?
Your input helps shape these discussions! Feel free to comment below or send me a private message with any questions or topics you'd like to see covered in future posts.
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