The UKCISA Code of Ethics and its Commentary

The UKCISA Code of Ethics is intended for all those advising international students, whether or not they have the word adviser in their job title. It sets out the principles of professionalism and best practice to which UKCISA would expect their members to adhere.

The Commentary is a guide to the application of the code. It is intended particularly for those new to working with international students and for those working with international students in institutions with fewer established policies and procedures in relevant areas.

This revision of the Code and its Commentary was prompted by the pace of change over the last few years brought about by developments in the immigration system. Tier 4 of the Points Based System has brought staff beyond advice services into the realms of immigration advice. UKCISA wishes to acknowledge all the hard work that representatives of AISA, ICN and UKCISA's Services and Representation Committee did on the revision and their commitment to ensuring that the Code remains relevant for all those giving advice to international students - whether or not it's immigration advice and whether or not their job is explicitly in advice.

UKCISA’s Services and Representation Committee is responsible for keeping the Code of Ethics and its Commentary under review and advising, on request, on issues arising under the Code.  You can contact the Services and Representation Committee via UKCISA’s Director of Advice & Training.

The Commentary and Appendix of the Code has been updated to reflect changes to the OISC Code of Standards that came into effect on 1 April 2016.

Last updated April 2016.