Working with Agents

Welcome!

At the University of Chester, we collaborate with carefully selected Recruitment Agents to help students like you navigate the application process and find the right course that matches your goals and aspirations. We highly value integrity, transparency, and quality in all aspects of student recruitment, and we expect our agent partners to uphold these same principles.

This webpage explains how our agents work, what to expect from them, how they can assist you, and where to seek help if you have any concerns about your experience.

The UK Agent Quality Framework

The University of Chester has pledged commitment to the UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF) and expects all approved agent partners to adhere to the recommendations and guidelines it provides. In line with the National Code of Ethical Practice for UK Education Agents, we require all our agent partners to:

Operate with Integrity and Objectivity at all times
Demonstrate professional competence and due care
Be transparent with their clients (prospective students)
Respect and preserve confidentiality by complying with UK data protection legislation
Act professionally and in accordance with relevant laws and regulations
Serve the best interests of clients with professionalism and purpose.

Our approved agents play a key role in helping you with various aspects of your application journey. They:

Provide accurate, honest, and up-to-date advice about studying at the University of Chester.
Assist you with filling out your application forms and gathering the necessary documents.
Guide you through the visa application process, ensuring you understand the requirements (if applicable).
Offer pre-departure support, helping you prepare for your move to the UK.
Give information about accommodation options, student life, and campus facilities.
Act in your best interests and ensure you make informed choices without any undue pressure.

Important: Our agents are not allowed to guarantee admission, scholarships, or visas. All admission decisions are made by the University based on official entry requirements.

To make sure you are working with a trusted and approved agent, follow these steps:

Check our official agent list: Visit your country/region page to find approved agents in your country. Only those listed are authorised to represent the University.
Look for agents who have completed a British Council training certification: Our approved agents have undergone official training and adhere to the UK Agent Quality Framework.
Ask questions: A responsible agent will provide clear answers, not rush you, and ensure you understand your options fully.
Watch out for red flags: If an agent promises guaranteed admission, unrealistic scholarships, or a fast-tracked visa process, they may not be trustworthy. Always verify information with us if you’re unsure.

If you ever feel uncertain about an agent, contact us directly for verification via international@chester.ac.uk

When working with a recruitment agent, you are entitled to:

Receive honest and transparent information about courses, fees, and university life.
Be treated fairly and respectfully, without discrimination or bias.
Make decisions without pressure, coercion, or false promises.
Get reliable support in understanding visa requirements and University policies.
Seek clarification if any information seems misleading or confusing.
Report any concerns about an agent’s behaviour or the information provided.

We encourage all students to take an active role in their application process. If something seems unclear or too good to be true, always verify with us!

We take your concerns very seriously. If you feel that an agent has given you incorrect information, pressured you into making a decision, or has not acted professionally, please let us know immediately.

Common Issues to Report:

An agent giving false information about tuition fees, scholarships, or visa processing times.
Feeling pressured into making a decision without enough time to think it through.
Being charged unexpected or unnecessary fees by an agent.
An agent failing to communicate properly or ignoring your questions.

📧 Email us at: International@chester.ac.uk

📞 Call us at: +44 1244 512465

🌍 Visit: https://www.chester.ac.uk/student-life/student-support/complaints/

All complaints are taken seriously and handled confidentially. If necessary, we will investigate the agent’s conduct and take appropriate action.

Beyond agent support, the University of Chester has a range of services to help you throughout your application and study journey:

Admissions Team: Our admissions experts can assist with questions about entry requirements and application status.
Student Support Services: We provide guidance on housing, health, and well-being.
International Officer: For general support, or queries relating to your admission
University Website and Official Social Media: Stay informed by attending our online sessions and browsing our official resources.

If you ever need help beyond what an agent provides, don’t hesitate to reach out directly to us!

Key Resources:

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right course and University is one of the most important decisions you will make. Our recruitment agents are here to guide and support you, but the final decision is yours. Take your time, ask questions, and make an informed choice that best suits your future aspirations.

We are excited about the possibility of welcoming you to the University of Chester and supporting you on this exciting journey!