Students from Hyderabad and the Telugu states planning to study in the UK should check one thing before accepting an offer, paying a deposit or applying for a visa. They should confirm on the UK government website that the university holds a student sponsor licence, which allows it to admit international students.
A colour rating for universities
The UK has tightened its compliance rules for universities and now rates them green, amber or red:
- Green: visa refusals below 4%, enrolment of at least 96%, course completion of at least 92%
- Amber: visa refusals of 4–5%, enrolment of at least 95%, course completion of 90–92%
- Red: universities below these levels
Applications are falling
Home Office figures show sponsored study visa applications from India fell 31% in the first half of 2026 from a year earlier. Visas issued fell 36%, refusals for Indian students doubled, and withdrawn applications rose 214%.
Students are advised to read refund policies before paying fees and to avoid non-refundable flights or housing until the visa is granted. They should also recheck the sponsor register after the visa comes through.
