Introduction: Why UK Universities Don’t Just Say “Yes”
When you apply to a UK university, it might feel like approval is a formality. In reality, universities face fixed CAS allocations from UKVI, contingent on their compliance performance.
Too many visa refusals, low course completion, or indicators of non-genuine student intent and the university runs the risk of losing its sponsor licence or having its CAS quota reduced.
This article explains why universities vet students carefully, how the credibility interview plays a role, and how Erudmite ensures you’re genuinely ready.
What Is a CAS And How It’s Allocated
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is a unique number UK universities issue per student. You need it before applying for a Student visa.
- Each university receives an annual CAS allocation from UKVI, which they cannot exceed.
- Allocation is tied to performance metrics:
- Visa refusal rate must be under 10%
- Enrollment rate must exceed 90%
- Course completion rate must exceed 85%
Universities carefully manage CAS issuance to ensure they stay within these limits.
Why Visa Refusals and Dropouts Hurt Universities
Suppose a university issues 1,000 CAS letters, but 200 of those visa applications are refused. That’s a 20% refusal rate—double the UKVI limit.
In such cases, UKVI may:
- Reduce future CAS allocations
- Place the university under compliance review
- Suspend or revoke its sponsor licence entirely
This is why universities enforce strict eligibility checks—to avoid jeopardising their credibility and future recruiting capacity.
How University Selection Processes Work
To qualify for a CAS, you’ll need to meet clear criteria:
- Academic & English Requirements
Proof of previous degrees and English language qualifications (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.). - Genuine Intent & Interview Screening
Admissions teams evaluate your career story, goals, and interest in the course—especially for candidates from high-risk countries—because credibility matters. - Financial Proof
Evidence of sufficient funds and consistent deposits to support your visa application. - Course Fit and Work Experience (where applicable)
Masters programmes often prefer relevant work experience or career progression after undergraduate studies. - Credibility Interviews
Many universities conduct credibility interviews before issuing a CAS—a quality assurance step to determine if you’re prepared, informed, and genuinely interested in studying.
If there’s even minor doubt, universities may hold back CAS or decline admission altogether—not because they dislike you—but because they must protect their sponsor status.
UKVI’s Increasing Pressure on Sponsors
UK law is evolving. The May 2025 White Paper proposed raising standards even further:
- Visa refusal rate threshold to tighten toward 5%
- Enrollment rate raised to 95%
- Completion rate to 90%
- A public Red-Amber-Green performance rating for schools
These changes underscore why universities must get it right from the start—and you can’t be part of a sloppy application.
How Erudmite Helps You Navigate This Wisely
We prepare you to meet—not evade—eligibility checks.
At Erudmite, we guide you through:
- Choosing courses that match your background and future aims, not just to fill quotas
- Drafting honest, strong SOPs that reinforce your academic intent
- Creating clean visa documentation—no mismatched CAS data or fake letters
- Practising for possible interviewer questions (e.g., “Why this course?” or “Who is your sponsor?”)
- Preparing for credibility interviews with precision and confidence
Our process ensures you apply compliantly, score high on credibility, and present as a genuine student—so universities feel confident issuing the CAS you need.
Summary: Why Screening Exists, and How You Can Win It
| Issue | University Concern | Erudmite’s Solution |
| High visa refusal rate | Threat to CAS quota | Prep with accurate documents and SOP alignment |
| Low enrolment or course completion | Risk to UKVI compliance rating | Authentic course choice and realistic university fit |
| Lack of genuine student indicators | Risk of UKVI investigation | Clear, credible interview prep and intent articulation |
Final Thought
The CAS isn’t just an entry pass—it’s UKVI’s way of ensuring only legitimate, prepared students enter their system.
So when universities assess, question, or delay your application—it’s not personal. It’s their way of protecting your future and theirs.
At Erudmite, we help you apply honestly and clearly—so you don’t just get accepted, you get admitted for the right reasons.
FAQs
- What if my application was refused three times?
You may be flagged as high-risk and refused additional CAS. Many universities decline candidates with multiple refusal records. - If a university loses CAS allocation mid-year, can I still use my CAS?
Yes—as long as your CAS was issued before allocation freeze. But new requests will be declined. - What if I suspend or transfer my course?
Universities must report this to UKVI, which may lead to visa curtailment or new CAS requirements. - Do UKVI rules change often?
Yes—policy updates like the 2025 changes tighten compliance thresholds. That’s why following Erudmite’s process review matters now more than ever. - What is a credibility interview?
It’s a video or in-person assessment conducted by universities to confirm that you’re a genuine student. It covers your background, course knowledge, finances, and post-study intentions. - Why do universities care about course alignment?
A mismatch between your academic background and chosen course raises red flags for UKVI and could trigger visa rejection. - Can I fail the credibility interview?
Yes. If your answers are unclear, memorised, or disconnected from your SOP, the university may decline to issue CAS. - Does Erudmite help with credibility interview training?
Absolutely. We help you prepare, rehearse, and present yourself as a confident, genuine applicant.
