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Several hundred international learners will finally get to claim their promised places following negotiations among the Home Office and UCL wrapped up with the authorities approving supplementary visas.

Study Permit Allowance Problems

Numerous of students, many from China, found themselves in uncertainty after University College London underestimated the applications for study spots this year and exceeded its quota of CAS online certificates permitted by the immigration authorities.

Institution Regret and Compensation

the institution offered apologies to those concerned, telling them it was "truly apologetic for the interruption and uncertainty", and providing to compensate £1,000 fees for applications made through the UK immigration system's "super priority service".

We're pleased to guarantee our concerned foreign students that they can finally commence their courses at UCL.

Extraordinary Demand

The institution said "an unprecedented increase in applications" was responsible for the over-recruitment, and had initially informed learners with guaranteed positions that they should defer until the following academic year, leading many to express concern they encountered economic disadvantages after pre-paying for flights and accommodation.

Favorable Resolution

Following discussions between University College London and the immigration authorities at the end of last week, scholars were advised that they would receive entry permits in the end.

A university representative for University College London said: "We deeply apologize to all those who have been affected by the recent uncertainty and we are exceptionally grateful for their cooperation. Our staff are now working quickly to communicate with learners personally with updates and help.

Student Responses

Some applicants said they had been sent electronic messages from UCL within the recent couple of days saying their study acceptance confirmations would be provided, a key prerequisite to be awarded a education visa. Some mentioned they had yet to received confirmation.

An applicant commented: "I am overjoyed to be able to learn in the United Kingdom. We were informed conflicting messages since last month, it was very stressful. I was already committed to paying for accommodation in the city, with no repayment available, so I am quite thankful."

Regional Effect

Roughly 200 applicants from the Chinese mainland were impacted, with a number already in the Britain at the end of the previous month for the beginning of the educational period. Those on graduate studies were advised they needed to be in attendance by 10 October or lose their position.

We're extremely grateful for your understanding with this matter and we are deeply regretful for the disruption and uncertainty which this will have generated you.