London: Thousands of Indian and other non-EU students are facing an uncertain situation due to the possibility of a major university here losing its licence to admit overseas students as part of a crackdown on student visa abuse.
The London Metropolitan University, which has offices in New Delhi and Chennai, is one of the major destinations for Indian students coming to the UK. The university's licence to admit non-EU was suspended in July by the UK Border Agency, and a final decision is expected this week.
A university spokesperson told PTI that it was "understandable that Indian students were in a limbo", but the final decision on withdrawing the university's 'highly trusted sponsor status' had not been taken yet, amidst reports that it was set to lose the status.
A UK Border Agency spokesman said: "We have not made a decision yet. Any education provider has to meet strict standards, ensuring they provide high quality education, and take their immigration responsibilities seriously. We will not tolerate any abuse of the immigration system."
The university has now set up a hotline offering help and support to thousands of international students affected by the uncertainty.
The university is unable to accept fees of Indian and other international students already on courses and from those expected to arrive next month for the new academic year.
If the UK Border Agency decides this week to withdraw the university's status to admit Indian and other international students, it will also affect those students who are already on courses at the university. They may lose the right to remain in the UK and return home without completing their courses.
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