Admissions Policy


Policy Statement

Preparing leaders for an AI-driven world requires equitable access to education, ensuring diverse talent can thrive.

The School is committed to fair, transparent, and objective admissions, balancing academic and non-academic criteria to support student success.

This policy outlines the admissions process, including clear information on programmes, requirements, fees, and deadlines, while recognising prior learning and experience.

Principles

  • Inclusive: All students who demonstrate the potential to meet the entry requirements for one of our programmes are welcome to apply.
  • Considerate: The School will evaluate all entry qualifications submitted by applicants and accept various UK, EU and Overseas qualifications.
  • Equal opportunities: We give equal consideration to each applicant based on their merits, abilities, and academic potential irrespective of race, colour, nationality, ethnicity, gender identity, marital status, family responsibilities, disability, age, sexual orientation, political or religious affiliation, or any other irrelevant distinction.
  • Commitment to student success: The School will only offer a place where there is compelling evidence that the applicant can succeed in their chosen Programme.
  • Fair: Decisions on whether to make an admission offer are competitive, made objectively and grounded in academic achievements to date; predicted academic achievement; any available evidence of the applicant’s capability and capacity to complete the programme; any evidence speaking to the applicant’s attitude, skills, experience and motivation; Professional, Academic, and extracurricular or co-curricular references;
  • Recognition of Prior Learning: The School welcomes applications from individuals who have already met some of the program's advancement requirements outside of the School's regular study program, whether through work experience or academic credits.
  • Recognition of Experience: The School invites applications from individuals who may not satisfy the academic requirements for their selected Programme, but possess substantial work or life experience.

Regulatory Context

This Policy has been developed in line with the applicable laws, regulations, regulatory advice, and sector best practices, including the following:

Authority Name Url
UK Home Office Study in the UK on a Student visa
Sets out the requirements for international students who wish to study in the UK.
UK Home Office Student Sponsor Guidance
Sets out the requirements for education providers wishing to hold a licence to sponsor international students to come to the UK under the Student route.
Office for Students (OfS) Regulatory Notices and Advice
Regulatory notices are additional information about OfS' regulatory requirements and are part of the regulatory framework. Regulatory advice helps providers understand and meet OfS requirements.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Advice - Admissions, Recruitment and Widening Access

Admissions Team Expertise and Qualifications

Title
Rule
Principles for Admission

The School is committed to widening access and participation, including outreach programmes, contextual admissions, and initiatives to support disadvantaged or underrepresented students.

The principles for programme admission at the School include fairness, transparency, inclusivity, merit and potential evaluation, English language proficiency, holistic evaluation, legal compliance, academic suitability, ethical standards, and continuous improvement.

These principles ensure fair, transparent, and inclusive admissions processes, promoting diversity, regulatory compliance, and integrity.

Rule
Admissions Staff Responsibilities

Admissions staff are responsible for the following:

  • Collaborating with the Marketing Team to ensure a positive applicant journey.
  • Promoting access through outreach activities and participation in open days.
  • Providing excellent customer service and professionally representing the School.
  • Addressing all pre-application queries, including those related to UCAS, CAS, and visas.
  • Recording and tracking all queries and applications in line with School regulations and policies.
  • Arranging interviews where required.
  • Working with undergraduate and postgraduate programme teams to understand entry requirements and resolve queries.
  • Managing offers, pre-contract information, contracts, registration, and enrolment processes.
  • Collecting metrics for reporting and driving continuous improvement.

This ensures admissions staff are well-prepared to deliver a high-quality applicant experience, maintain effective processes, and comply with regulations, thereby supporting the School's commitment to access and customer service excellence.

Inclusive Admissions Practices and Reasonable Adjustments

Title
Rule
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Admissions

The School is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. It adheres to the Equality Act 2010 and follows guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission. The School assesses whether reasonable adjustments are needed for applicants with disclosed disabilities, long-term health conditions, or other factors to ensure fair access and success. No academically qualified applicant will be denied admission due to disability if reasonable adjustments have not been ruled out.

This ensures compliance with legal obligations and promotes fair and inclusive access to education, providing equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of their personal circumstances.

Rule
Disclosure and Support for Disabilities or Conditions

Applicants with a disability, long-term health condition, or other needs should disclose this information early in the application process. This allows the School's Admissions and Student Success Teams to arrange necessary support and adjustments in line with legislation. Reasonable adjustments can also be requested during the registration process after accepting an offer. All information will be handled according to the School's privacy policy.

Early disclosure enables timely support and ensures compliance with legal requirements, allowing the School to provide appropriate accommodations and maintain confidentiality.

Rule
Assessment and Support for Disabilities or Conditions Rule:

For applicants disclosing a disability, long-term health condition, or other needs on their application form, the Admissions Team will collaborate with the Student Success Team. The Student Success Team will assess the need for reasonable adjustments and necessary arrangements to meet programme requirements. If needed, they will invite the applicant for a face-to-face interview to assist with this assessment, which may lead to a Learning Support Plan (LSP). This assessment is separate from the academic selection process. Students can also apply for learning support plans after starting their studies.

This approach ensures that reasonable adjustments are tailored to the applicant’s needs while keeping the academic selection process impartial. It allows for timely and appropriate support, both before and after admission.

Rule
Appeal Process for Denied Admissions Due to Adjustment Limits

If the Student Success Team determines that no reasonable adjustments can be made under the law, admission may be denied to applicants with a disability, long-term health condition, or other needs. Applicants who are refused admission have the right to appeal under the School’s appeal and complaints procedure. For more details, refer to the Learning Support Plan and Reasonable Adjustments Policy.

This ensures that applicants are aware of their right to appeal if reasonable adjustments cannot be provided, while maintaining compliance with legal requirements.

Accuracy in Admissions Information and Communication

Title
Rule
Accuracy of Admissions Information

The Admissions Team must use only accurate and up-to-date information provided by the Marketing Team. This includes details on programmes, modules, and entry criteria, and applies to all information sources including the School’s website, brochures, emails, and external publications. The Director of Operations is responsible for instituting processes for ensuring the accuracy of this information.

This rule ensures that all published information used for admissions is correct and current, maintaining transparency and reliability in the admissions process. It also guarantees that inquiries and applications are handled based on accurate information.

Rule
Accuracy of Information Policy (AOIP)

Further to the Accuracy of Information Policy (AOIP), the Marketing Team must ensure that information is updated regularly and that any changes are communicated promptly to all Directors and students. The Director of Operations oversees this process and reports on information accuracy to the Executive Board.

This rule ensures that all information is accurate and current.

Rule
Communication of Programme Changes

The School reserves the right to amend programme and module information. If changes occur after applications have been received, the School will notify all applicants of the changes and the reasons behind them, ensuring they can make informed decisions.

Notifying applicants of changes maintains transparency and allows them to reconsider their choices based on the latest information, thus upholding consumer protection standards.

Rule
Confidentiality of Applicants' Data

All staff must handle applicants' data, including queries, confidentially and avoid disclosing it inappropriately. Admissions staff may not communicate with third parties about an applicant without explicit authorisation, including referees listed in the application form. The School processes personal data in line with its data, privacy, and retention policies, available on the School's website.

Ensuring confidentiality and proper handling of personal data aligns with privacy regulations and protects applicants' information, maintaining trust and compliance with the School’s policies.

International Student Admissions Procedures

Title
Advice
International Student Admissions

The School welcomes applications from international students and can issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to support UK visa applications. Details of the process are available on the School’s website and in this Policy. The National Academic Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) assists in verifying international qualifications.

This ensures international applicants have clear guidance and support for their visa applications, with NARIC providing essential verification of their qualifications, promoting accessibility and inclusivity in our academic programmes.

Rule
English Language Proficiency Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate adequate English language proficiency by:

  • Being a citizen of a majority English-speaking country.
  • Having received education in an English-speaking environment.
  • Achieving the minimum score in IELTS or another equivalent test, as specified in the programme specification and published on the School's website.

This rule ensures that all applicants have the necessary English language skills to succeed in their studies and meet programme requirements effectively.

Rule
International students

The School will issue a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) for visa sponsorship only if:

  • All conditions in the conditional offer letter, including English Language requirements and acceptance by the deadline, are met.
  • The tuition fee deposit is paid, or official evidence is provided from a governmental or international sponsorship agency.
  • The applicant has not been misled into having unrealistic expectations.
  • The applicant shows genuine intention to complete their studies.
  • The CAS questionnaire and supporting documents are submitted.
  • The applicant provides all required evidence, including maintenance funds, as per UKVI requirements.

International students should refer to the Visa Sponsorship and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) Policy on the School’s website.

As a Student Sponsor Licence holder, the School must:

  • Maintain a visa refusal rate of no more than 10%.
  • Ensure an enrolment rate of at least 90%.
  • Achieve a course completion rate of 85% or more.

The Admissions Team is responsible for ensuring that these criteria are met by rigorously vetting all applicants and only offering admission when these requirements are assured.

This rule ensures that CAS issuance aligns with Home Office and UKVI requirements, maintaining high standards for international student admissions and compliance. The criteria for visa refusal, enrolment, and completion rates reflect the School’s commitment to supporting and retaining international students effectively.

Entry Requirements, Selection Criteria, and Offer Process

Title
Rule
Entry Requirements

The School's website integrates with the Academic Governance System (AGS) to provide up-to-date programme and module specifications. Information published includes:

  • Programme names, final and exit awards
  • Programme descriptions
  • Core and optional modules
  • Entry requirements
  • Teaching and assessment details
  • Careers information
  • Fees

The entry requirements for all undergraduate and postgraduate programmes must be clearly outlined, including:

  1. Qualifications and experience, including international qualifications and Recognition of Prior Learning and Experience. 
  2. English language proficiency
  3. Additional requirements, such as IT skills

This information is also reflected on external systems like UCAS. Entry criteria cannot be waived, and applicants must review these details before applying. The School reserves the right to adjust entry requirements before the admission cycle begins and will notify all applicants of any changes to allow them to make an informed decision.

This rule ensures that all programme and module information is accurate and readily available, allowing applicants to understand entry requirements clearly. It maintains transparency and fairness in the admission process, supporting informed decision-making and adherence to standards.

Rule
Application Review and Communication

The School will clearly publicise its application processes and timescales through relevant platforms such as UCAS. Information provided will include:

  • Application procedures and deadlines
  • Application review processes
  • Communication timelines
  • Interview procedures, if applicable

The School will communicate with applicants promptly, providing offers and responses to queries via email or the applicant portal. Details on next steps following an offer, including acceptance deadlines and enrolment procedures, will also be outlined.

All applications and supporting evidence will be evaluated fairly and consistently, in line with the Student Admission and Registration Regulations. If there are more qualified applicants than available places, priority will be given to those with the highest academic achievements and potential benefits from the programme. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee an offer, as applications undergo a competitive selection process. Feedback will be provided to unsuccessful applicants, subject to operational constraints. Applicants may appeal admission decisions according to the Appeals process outlined in the Admissions Policy.

This rule ensures transparency in the application process, fair consideration of all applicants, and consistent communication of decisions. It upholds competitive selection standards and provides applicants with the opportunity to understand and appeal decisions, supporting a fair and informed admissions process.

Rule
Disclosure and Consideration of Criminal Records

The School operates a fair admissions that promotes education for everyone. It applies applicable law, including the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

A. In some cases, depending on the course, applicants may need to disclose criminal records at the stage of application. The School will consider the application per the course entry criteria, including academic requirements, and if an offer is made, registration will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This will be mentioned on the course page on the website.

B. On other courses, applicants will have to declare unspent convictions under the 1974 Act after an offer has been made and accepted per the course entry criteria:

  • Violence-related offenses: any offence, including assault, battery, ABH (Actual Bodily Harm), and other violent crimes;
  • Sexual offences: any offence involving sexual misconduct, including under the Sexual Offences Act 2003;
  • Drug offences: any offence with regard to controlled substances and drugs;
  • Any firearms offences
  • Public order offenses: serious offences like rioting or violent disorder;
  • Terrorism-related offences
  • Offences involving arson

The Executive Committee, or a delegated sub-group, will assess disclosed information based on risk. All disclosures will be handled in accordance with the law, including data protection provisions. Decisions can be appealed through the admissions appeals and complaints process.

This rule ensures compliance with legal requirements and promotes transparency and fairness in the admissions process. It provides clarity on the need for disclosure and the assessment of criminal records, while safeguarding applicants' rights through an appeals process.

Rule
Deferment of Entry

Students may apply to defer their entry. The School has the discretion to accept or reject deferment requests based on academic and operational considerations.

This rule allows the School to manage deferment requests in a way that ensures academic standards and operational needs are met.

Rule
Unconditional Offer

An unconditional offer may only be made if an applicant meets all entry criteria for the programme.

These rules ensure that offers align with an applicant’s current or anticipated ability to meet programme requirements.

Rule
Conditional Offer

If an applicant does not currently meet all entry requirements for an undergraduate or postgraduate programme but is expected to do so soon, the Admissions Team may issue a conditional offer. This offer will specify the conditions the applicant must meet, including:

  1. Pending qualifications: If the applicant is pursuing an academic qualification, the offer may require completion of specific requirements before the School confirms their place.
  2. International students: The offer will detail any requirements for international students, such as English language proficiency.
  3. Other requirements: Some programmes may require non-academic conditions, such as the completion of a DBS check.

Conditional offers ensure that applicants are given a chance to meet all necessary requirements before finalising their admission, while clearly outlining what is needed to secure their place.

Rule
Interview Invitations

The School may invite applicants to an interview as part of the assessment process in the following situations:

  • If the programme requires it;
  • If the applicant needs visa sponsorship;
  • If the applicant has non-standard qualifications;
  • If the application relies heavily on recognition of experience.

Interviews help ensure that all aspects of an applicant's profile are thoroughly evaluated, particularly when specific requirements or non-standard factors are involved.

Rule
Fraud and Misrepresentation

Any fraudulent applications or misrepresentation of qualifications or other information will be investigated and may result in the withdrawal of an offer, cancellation of enrolment, or disciplinary action.

This ensures the integrity of the admissions process and protects the School's standards. Accurate information is essential to assess applicants fairly and to maintain trust in the institution’s procedures, preventing unfair advantage or harm to the School community.

Contract, Fees, and Registration Procedures

Title
Rule
Consumer Protection and Pre-Contract Information

When the School issues an offer letter, it must include essential pre-contract information. This includes the programme name, core and optional modules, the award to be received, programme duration, and details of tuition fees and any additional charges.

This ensures compliance with consumer protection regulations, providing applicants with clear and comprehensive information before they make a commitment.

Rule
Offer Acceptance Requirements

The offer letter must detail the steps an applicant needs to take to formally accept the offer. This includes outlining any conditions, the acceptance deadline, the formal acceptance process, and when the offer will expire.

This ensures that applicants are fully informed about how to accept their offer and the timeframe within which they must act, preventing any misunderstandings or missed deadlines.

Rule
Legally Binding Contract

Once the offer is accepted, it constitutes a legally binding contract between the applicant and the School. Students must adhere to the School's regulations and policies, pay tuition fees as scheduled, and complete registration.

This ensures that both parties understand their obligations and responsibilities, including compliance with rules, payment of fees, and formal registration.

Advice
Contract Terms and Conditions

The contract outlines terms and conditions related to engagement with studies, changes to programmes, data protection, liability, withdrawal of services, and cancellation. A copy of the contract is available on the School's website.

This ensures transparency and provides students with clear information about their obligations and the School's policies.

Rule
Payment and Registration Process

After formally accepting their offer, students will be informed by the School about fee payment and the registration process. Enrolment in the programme will follow registration. Both registration and enrolment are necessary to access the School’s services. For more details, refer to the Registration and Enrolment Policy.

This ensures students are aware of the steps required to access the School’s services and facilitates a smooth transition into their studies.

Assessment of Prior Learning and Experience for Admission

Title
Rule
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Experience (RPE)

RPL and other claims for module exemptions and credit awards will be accepted only if the applicant meets the same rigorous standards as those applied to summative assessments, proving they can achieve the module and programme outcomes at the required level.

RPL and RPE for entry criteria will be assessed by the admissions team against the established entry requirements.

This ensures that all applicants, whether applying through traditional or prior learning routes, meet consistent standards, thereby maintaining the integrity and quality of the award. For more information, see the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Experience (RPE) Regulations.

Programme Discontinuation and Suspension Procedures

Title
Rule
Programme Suspension and Alternative Placement

If the School must suspend or discontinue an undergraduate or postgraduate programme with offers already made, affected applicants will be informed promptly. The School will either offer a place on a suitable alternative programme or, if this is not possible, provide advice and support to find a suitable alternative at another higher education provider.

This ensures that applicants are supported in finding a suitable alternative and are not left without options due to programme changes.

Rule
Refund and Compensation for Programme Discontinuation

If the School cannot offer a suitable alternative programme or if the alternative is rejected by the student, a full refund will be issued for any deposit fees paid. Applicants must take reasonable steps to mitigate their situation based on the School's advice. If they incur reasonable and evidenced expenses securing a similar programme at another institution, the School will provide reasonable compensation upon receipt of a valid claim.

This policy ensures that students are financially protected if the School cannot provide a suitable alternative and supports them in finding other options by compensating reasonable expenses.

Procedure for Appeals and Complaints in Admissions

Title
Rule
Appeals and Complaints Process

If an applicant is dissatisfied with a rejection decision by the School, they may appeal. If the dissatisfaction concerns how the application was handled or how the decision was made, rather than the decision itself, they may lodge a complain

The School evaluates each application based on published criteria and programme availability. It retains the right to make independent academic decisions and will not disclose details of comparisons to maintain confidentiality.

Rule
Appeals Process for Admission Decisions

The School will endeavour to provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants, subject to operational constraints. Applicants considering an appeal should first seek and review this feedback from the Admissions Team.

If the feedback does not resolve the issue, the applicant may submit a formal appeal in writing to the Director of Student Services.

The Director of Student Services will review the appeal and provide a formal response within 15 working days. The Director's decision is final.

This process ensures that applicants can address concerns about admission decisions fairly. Appeals must be based on the original application to maintain fairness, as additional information could provide an unfair advantage.

Rule
Complaints Process for Application Consideration

Applicants should first write to the staff member who made the decision if they are dissatisfied with how their application was considered.

If dissatisfaction persists, they should then write to the Director of Student Services. 

The Director's decision on admission is final.

This process allows applicants to address concerns about the handling of their application effectively, with escalating levels of review ensuring a thorough resolution.

Rule
Timeliness of Appeals and Complaints Handling

All appeals and complaints should be addressed promptly and as close to the point of origin as possible. A response must be provided within 15 working days. If this is not feasible, the applicant must be informed and given an estimated response date.

Timely handling ensures that issues are resolved efficiently and that applicants are kept informed of the progress, maintaining transparency and trust in the process.

Data Protection in the Admissions Process

Title
Rule
Management and Accuracy of Admissions Records

The School’s Automated Governance System (AGS) securely records all admissions communications, including applications from platforms like UCAS, queries, submissions, offers, correspondence, documents, and RPL claims. Communications via other channels (e.g. telephone, email) are also logged on the AGS. Applications submitted through the School's website are added to the AGS, and applicants must provide accurate information. False or misleading information may result in application rejection at any stage. The AGS automatically sends email notifications to applicants and staff about updates and reminders to log in and take necessary actions.

Using the AGS to record and manage admissions ensures secure and comprehensive tracking of all communications and applications. Requiring accurate information and automatically notifying relevant parties helps maintain the integrity of the admissions process and ensures timely actions are taken.

Rule
Processing of Personal Information

The School processes personal information to provide admission services and comply with external data obligations, including Higher Education Statistic Agency (HESA) and Office for Students (OfS) reporting requirements. This includes personal data about applicants. The processing follows the School’s data, privacy, and retention policies, which are available for download on the School’s website and comply with legal requirements.

Adhering to these policies ensures that personal data is handled appropriately, meets legal obligations, and supports the delivery of accurate and compliant admission services.

Metrics and KPIs

The following metrics will be measured and regularly reviewed as key performance indicators for the School to ensure the effectiveness of this policy and associated operations.

Title
Acceptance Rate
Track the percentage of offers made compared to the total number of applications received, aiming for a balanced acceptance rate that reflects fair selection practices.
This KPI helps assess how well the School is managing its applicant pool and maintaining fairness in offering places.
Application Processing Time
Measure the average number of working days taken to process an application from submission to decision, aiming for an average of 10 working days.
This KPI ensures that applications are processed efficiently, reflecting the institution's commitment to timely and effective admissions decisions.
Condition Compliance Rate
Track the percentage of applicants who meet the conditions of their offer by the specified deadline, aiming for 90%.
Measures the effectiveness of conditional offers and the School’s ability to maintain admission standards.
Diversity of Enrolled Students
Monitor the percentage of enrolled students from groups (including racial, ethnic, gender, and other categories), targeting a 10% annual increase.
Reflects the School's success in achieving diversity within the student body and indicates how well recruitment strategies are translating into actual enrolments.
Student Satisfaction with Admissions Process
Measure student satisfaction with the admissions process through surveys, aiming for at least 85% satisfaction.
Provides insights into the applicant experience and identifies areas for improvement in the admissions process.
Policy: Admissions Policy