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Changes in the Immigration law following the UK exit from the EU

Our many EU staff and students are a valued part of our vibrant and diverse community and continue to play a vital role in the future of the South Thames Colleges Group.

Following the EU Referendum outcome in June 2016, Group’s Chief Executive Peter Mayhew-Smith reassured international and EU students and staff that the Group remains committed to being a welcoming, diverse and vibrant international community.

“We are proudly a diverse and inclusive organisation and welcome people to work and study here from every part of the world. We will not change that and will continue to stand up for these principles. All people should feel equally valued here and we will stand firmly alongside anyone who is treated less well because of their origin or ethnicity. We will uphold respect at all times as this process works its way through and continue to celebrate the wonderful richness of the Group’s community. We are working with Local Authorities and London business partners to learn from each other.”

Changes in the Immigration law for EU Citizens who wish to stay in the UK after it leaves the EU

Our current students and staff who are from the EU, and who want to continue to live in the UK must apply for Settled or Pre-Settled status to be able to:

  • Continue studying in the UK
  • Work in the UK
  • Have access to the resources of the NHS
  • Travel in and out the UK 

The deadline for applications is 30th June 2021 – don’t leave it too late apply. 

Please see more information on how to apply for the  EU Settlement Scheme

Useful information:

Current Students who will be continuing their studies 

If you are intending to continue to live and study in the UK after 30th June 2021 – you must apply for Settled Status.

Having settled status also means you keep your ‘home for fees status’ and will not have to pay International Fees

Arriving in the UK after 1st January and starting a course that is less than 6 months

You do not need to apply for a visa and you will still be eligible for ‘home for fees status’

Arriving in the UK after 1st January and starting a course that is longer than 6 months

You will need to apply for the new Student Route Visa and will have to pay International Fees

Student Route at STCG

Student Route sponsorship is only available on courses delivered at our Kingston College site, subject to meeting the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) criteria. If you are applying from outside the United Kingdom and require a Student route visa, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Please check the following government websites for the most up to date information:

Studying in the UK - Guidance for EU students

British Council, EU Students