The Immigration Rules at paragraphs 245G of part 6A, and Appendix A, B and C, explains the requirements to be eligible to apply under the Tier 1 general category. The points awarded are as follows:

1.        75 points for your attributes (age, qualifications, previous earnings, and experience in the United Kingdom); and 

2.        10 points for English language; and 

3.        10 points for available maintenance (funds).

The points scoring differ if you apply under the category for the first time or if you are applying to extend the application. The points scoring are also different if you are on the HSMP.