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What is the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)?

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) was introduced on 1 November 2007 and is an essential part of the UK’s commitment to Counter Proliferation. Its aim is to help stop the spread of knowledge and skills that could be used in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery.

The ATAS is specifically designed to ensure that those applying for postgraduate study in certain sensitive subjects do not acquire knowledge that could potentially be used in WMD programmes. We advise you to find out if you need an ATAS certificate before applying for a student visa or extension.

How do I apply for an ATAS certificate?

If you require an ATAS certificate you will need to apply for this before applying for your visa or extension of stay. The possession of an ATAS certificate does not guarantee you a visa or extension of stay. However, applications will automatically be refused if you need an ATAS certificate and cannot provide one.

When applying for a visa, you must also provide evidence that you meet the usual student criteria.

For more information on applying for a student visa, and if you need to apply for an extension of stay, go to the UK Border Agency website.

An ATAS certificate shows details of the course and Higher Education Institution (HEI) you have applied to for clearance. If you have more than one offer from different HEIs you will need to apply for separate ATAS clearance certificates for each HEI and programme of study.

An ATAS certificate is valid as long as the details of your course and HEI do not change. You can apply for an ATAS certificate up to 6 months in advance of the beginning of your course.


How long does the application process take?

We advise against making any travel plans before you have received an ATAS certificate. We aim to respond to all successfully completed applications within 20 working days. This can be longer during busy periods. We encourage you to apply as soon as you have received your offer of study at an HEI.

If you are in the UK already and you need to extend your visa to complete your course, please check whether ATAS clearance is required.

For more information please see our section on frequently asked questions.