Home Office CAS update: Mandatory agent field introduced and more
The Home Office has released newly updates guidance related to using agents in CAS applications. Our experts discuss how this affects you.
Saskia Johnston ● Jun 27, 2025
We are writing to advise you of an important update released today by the Home Office regarding the use of agents in the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) process.
A new field has been introduced in the Sponsor Management System (SMS) that requires sponsors to record Agent or Third-Party details if an agent was used in a student’s admissions application. This field is mandatory where applicable.
Access the updated guidance here
What you need to do now:
Please ensure your agent lists are fully up to date and that the agent details provided on any CAS requests to us are complete and accurate. These details will now be used, effective immediately, on all CAS assignments involving agents.
Why this matters:
The inclusion of this mandatory agent information field forms part of the Home Office’s wider efforts to increase transparency and oversight in international student recruitment. Schools must now ensure agent information is accurately recorded on the CAS if an agent or third party was involved in the recruitment process.
Recommended best practices for agent vetting:
With the Home Office placing a stronger emphasis on agent oversight, we recommend implementing the following steps as part of your internal compliance process:
- Obtain written references: As a minimum, seek one, ideally two written references when onboarding a new agent.
- Verify with trusted bodies: Cross-check the agent’s credentials with reputable organisations such as:
- British Boarding Schools Network (BBSN)
- Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA)
- British Council
The UKVI looks favourably on schools that use multiple sources when deciding to engage an agent.
These checks may be less critical for larger, well-known agencies already registered with multiple industry bodies. However, the same vetting process should be applied to all agents, regardless of size, to ensure consistent due diligence.
Probationary periods for new or inexperienced agents
For smaller or untested agencies, we advise issuing a six-month probationary contract, to be reviewed at the end of that period. This provides a structured approach to monitor performance and manage potential risk before entering into a longer-term relationship.
Example of updated SMS:
