What is the Points Based System?
The Points Based System is the immigration system affecting workers and students who come to the UK from outside the European Economic Area. It is managed by the UK Border Agency; an agency of the Home Office.
| Tier | Migration Route | Date of Introduction |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Highly Skilled Migrants | June 2008 |
| 2 | Skilled Workers with a job offer | November 2008 |
| 3 | Low Skilled Workers | This tier is currently suspended |
| 4 | Students on a student visa | March 2009 - February 2010 |
| 5 | Temporary Workers and Youth Mobility | November 2008 |
Educational institutions are the greatest users of the Points Based System (PBS). Under Tier 4 the University of Sheffield acts as a student's 'sponsor' and must take responsibility for a student's immigration status whilst in the UK. The term 'sponsor' does not equate to financial sponsorship.
Tier 4 was implemented in stages between March 2009 and February 2010 and the system was reviewed in 2011, after which further policy changes were introduced.
The Department of Human Resources has managed the implementation of Tiers 2 and 5 and the Student Advice Centre advises students on working after studies under Tier 2.
If you have any questions or require any further information after reading these web pages, please contact tier4enquiries@sheffield.ac.uk