Codes of practice

Code of Ethics

The UKCISA Code of Ethics is intended for all those advising international students, whether or not they have the word adviser in their job title. It sets out the principles of professionalism and best practice to which UKCISA would expect their members to adhere.

UKCISA, together with the Association of International Student Advisers (AISA) and the Immigration Compliance Network (ICN) fully revised the code in 2015.

The Commentary is a guide to the application of the code. It is intended particularly for those new to working with international students and for those working with international students in institutions with fewer established policies and procedures in relevant areas.

This revision of the Code and its Commentary was prompted by the pace of change over the last few years brought about by developments in the immigration system. Tier 4 of the Points Based System has brought staff beyond advice services into the realms of immigration advice. UKCISA wishes to acknowledge all the hard work that representatives of AISA, ICN and UKCISA's Services and Representation Committee did on the revision and their commitment to ensuring that the Code remains relevant for all those giving advice to international students - whether or not it's immigration advice and whether or not their job is explicitly in advice.

UKCISA’s Membership Committee is responsible for keeping the Code and Commentary under review and advising, on request, on issues arising under the Code or requests from AISA or UKCISA members for advice, or for help with conciliation, in the case of difficulties or disputes about matters of ethical practice. You can contact the Membership Committee via UKCISA’s Membership Manager, Dan Hooper.

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Code of practice for members

This outlines the values and practices of what we expect from our members and references other relevant codes.

Code of Practice for members (updated December 2020)

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Code of Practice for Agents

In 2021, UKCISA and BUILA (British Universities International Liaison Association) carried out research which resulted in a new framework for agents:

National Code of Ethical Practice for UK Education Agents

All agents are encouraged to be familiar with and follow the code.  UK education providers can also refer to good practice guides for working with agents. The guides are hosted on the BUILA website.

Agents are also encouraged to take up British Council agent training.

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