This section explains the process of sponsoring a migrant to study in the United Kingdom as a general student (also referred to as an adult student) under tier 4 of the points-based system.

To qualify as a general student under the points-based system, a migrant must score 40 points. To be able to apply for permission to enter or stay in the United Kingdom under Tier 4, the migrant will need a visa letter or confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) from their tier 4 sponsor. The student's application must be made no more than three months before the start date of their course.

The process of sponsoring a general student is made up of four stages.

1. Make sure that the course the migrant wants to do is acceptable for a tier 4 general student, and that any work placements meet the tier 4 requirements.
2. If the migrant is going to do a pre-sessional course to prepare them for their main course of study, make sure that the pre-sessional course meets the tier 4 requirements.
3. You do not have to check that the migrant has enough money (maintenance) to cover their course fees and monthly living costs, but you may wish to do so.
4. Issue a visa letter or CAS offering the migrant an unconditional place at your institution. This will enable the migrant to apply for permission to enter or stay in the United Kingdom as a general student under tier 4.

If the migrant accepts your offer and Home Office give them permission to study in the United Kingdom based on your visa letter or CAS, you will become their sponsor. You must then make sure that you manage your record-keeping and reporting duties for the student.