This section contains answers to frequently asked questions about the process of arranging a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number.
What is a CAS number
A CAS number is a very important electronic document that you will need to request prior to submitting your student route (previously Tier 4) visa application. You must request your CAS before you start to complete your visa application as you will need to include key information as stated on your CAS statement, such as the unique CAS number that confirms Swansea University will become your student route (previously Tier 4) sponsor.
Why do I need a CAS number
You will need a CAS number to apply for a visa to allow you to study in the UK at a student route (previously Tier 4) sponsor.
How do I get a CAS number
You will need to contact Student Compliance Services at cas.compliance@swansea.ac.uk to request a CAS application. SCS will then guide you through the CAS process.
My UK term time address has changed. What shall I do?
As a student route (previously Tier 4) visa holder you will be responsible for keeping your UK term time address up to date throughout your studies in the UK. If you decide to move address at any point of your studies you will need to login to your Intranet account and update your details as soon as you have moved in to your new accommodation.
My course requires an ATAS certificate. How do I apply for an ATAS?
For further information on the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) and how to apply please visit the International@Campuslife section of the website.
I am in the process of renewing my passport. Will this have an impact on my CAS?
Prior to being issued with a CAS we will request to see a copy of your current passport. The current passport that is submitted to Student Compliance Services with your CAS application will be the passport that will be added to your CAS and will need to be submitted with your student route (previously Tier 4) application.
If you have received a new CAS by the time the new passport arrives, you will need to alert Student Compliance Services of the arrival of your new passport by sending us a copy of the new passport so a sponsor note can be added to your CAS through the Sponsorship Management System (SMS) before you submit your visa application. You will then be required to submit your new passport with your student route (previously Tier 4) visa application.
How long will my CAS be valid for?
The CAS will be valid for 6 months from the date it was assigned.
Where can I receive further advice and guidance about maintenance?
You can contact our International Student Advisers at International@Campuslife on International.Campuslife@swansea.ac.uk for further advice and guidance or you can book an appointment to meet with one of our qualified advisers.
I have previously studied in the UK on a student visa. Will I be eligible for a CAS number for a second student visa?
Yes, subject to you meeting the UKVI’s requirements relation to “academic progression” and time limits.
By the end of your new course, you must not have spent more than five years studying Bachelors and Masters qualifications on a UK student visa (six years if the standard length of the undergraduate course is four years).
If my visa application is unsuccessful, can I use the same CAS number to re-apply?
If you receive a visa refusal from the Home Office you must not try to re-use the CAS to make a new application of leave. To be able to submit another application you will be required to request a new CAS from your student route (previously Tier 4) sponsor and make a fresh application of leave.
Does receiving my CAS number mean that I will definitely get a visa?
No. To be sure of getting a visa you must meet all the other requirements of the UK’s immigration rules and regulations. You can view this information on the International@CampusLife website.
Where can I find information about other aspects of the visa application process?
Advice and guidance is provided by Swansea University’s international student advisory team at International@Campuslife.
Furthermore Information about other immigration aspects in relation to the visa application process can be found on the UKVI website.