Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

Official Definition

An unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor, and the confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) reference number the sponsor sends once it has offered the place. The application must be made within 6 months of receiving the CAS.

What UKVI Looks For

The applicant needs an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor, one listed on the register of licensed sponsors. Once the sponsor has offered the place, it sends a CAS reference number, which you enter on the application. The CAS shows the course fee you must pay, and it can also record official financial sponsorship.

Allowed courses include full-time study below degree level (RQF 3, 4 or 5) with at least 15 hours a week of organised daytime study, full-time study at degree level or above (RQF 6, 7 or 8), part-time study above degree level (RQF 7 or above), English language courses at CEFR B2 or above, and some Erasmus+ and overseas-delivered programmes.

The application must be made within 6 months of receiving the CAS. The CAS statement or email should give the CAS number, the course and its level, the start and end dates, and the fees.

Evidence Strength

Common Refusal / Processing Triggers

Tips for Strengthening Your Evidence

Relevant Document Types

Typical uploads: CAS statement or email from the university showing the CAS number, course, level, start and end dates, and the course fee, and the unconditional offer letter.