Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
Non-EU/EEA students wishing to extend Leave to Remain as a student in UK for some Taught Masters programmes and some research degrees (MPhil, PhD etc) must get ATAS clearance at least 4 weeks BEFORE applying for a CAS.
The areas affected will generally be science and engineering and will be identified by JACs codes. You will not be assigned a CAS until you have ATAS clearance for your current area of research. Your student visa application will be refused if you do not have ATAS clearance.
You can obtain your JACS code from SSiD. MPhil/PhD students must provide a brief statement outlining the area of research. Staff in your academic department will be able to provide this information. A template letter for this purpose is available from the downloads box.
An ATAS certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issue for the purpose of applying for a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa.
ATAS Template Letter
If you are extending your student visa and require ATAS clearance, you can use this template letter to get the information required from your supervisor.
Ask your supervisor to add details about your research and print the completed letter on to departmental letter-headed paper.
Update!
If you are applying to extend your visa to write up your thesis and your previous visa was issued before 30 November 2007 you do NOT need ATAS.
If you have any questions about ATAS, you can email: