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As an international student studying in the UK, you should know that every university has specific attendance requirements. Not attending classes regularly and fulfilling the attendance criteria can also lead to your visa being withdrawn in extreme cases. However, the point here is to ensure students focus on their studies and attend lectures.
This guide is here to help you find ways to maintain regular attendance, the consequences of frequent absences, and to understand the policies on minimum attendance for universities in UK. Keep reading further to know more!
| Highlights | Details |
| Attendance requirements | Can vary by university and course |
| Attendance monitoring | Universities required by UKVI to monitor student visa holder attendance |
| Consequences of poor attendance | Warnings, meetings, withdrawal from course, visa cancellation |
| Recommended minimum attendance | Should be followed to avoid issues |
| Maximum continuous absence | 60 days without suspending studies and withdrawing visa |
| Failing a class | Can impact studies, require retaking exam |
Minimum Attendance In UK Universities For International Students
The attendance requirements in the UK can differ from university to university. The duration and type of the course can also influence this. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires all universities to record and monitor the attendance of Student Visa holders. This is especially true for international students pursuing a full-time course in the UK.
The UKVI can request the university to access your attendance records. If a student’s attendance is not up to the mark, they might be withdrawn from the course, and the student visa can be cancelled.
Ways To Maintain Your Minimum Attendance For UK Universities
Here are some helpful tips to fulfil the minimum attendance requirements for your university in the UK.
- It is advised that you attend all the lectures, seminars, meetings, tutorials and other classes to meet the attendance requirements of your Student Visa (previously called the Tier 4 Visa),
- It is suggested that you inform your class faculty or the concerned department of any absences due to unavoidable situations. Universities provide some permissible leave for illness and serious situations.
- However, once you take these leaves, it is essential to attend regular classes to avoid any further absent marks.
- Immediately contact the relevant department regarding any discrepancies in your attendance records. Avoid being on the defaulters list for one or more subjects. Being on this list for a particular subject consistently can also blacklist you from appearing for that subject exam.
How Do Universities Monitor Attendance?
The method by which your university keeps track of your attendance depends on the university, the course of study and the duration of your programme. Generally, if you’re a taught student, the attendance will usually be recorded for different timetabled classes and sessions.
An attendance check will be at the beginning of the lectures to maintain a record. Even for part-time courses and working professionals, the university will keep track of your attendance through regular check-ins.
Ways In Which Universities Identify Attendance Concerns
Every university regularly reviews students’ attendance records. This has to be in alignment with the UKVI’s attendance requirements. The university will likely take action if a student is frequently absent from classes.
- The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires all universities to record and monitor the attendance of Student Visa holders in the UK.
- A student visa can also be cancelled if there is a series of unexplained absences in extreme cases!
Consequences Of Frequent Absent Marks
Once your university finds concerns about your attendance, the relevant department will contact you over a warning email or in person. If you are absent, the university could escalate you. Then, you will likely required to attend a
- If your poor attendance continues, your university will likely involve the department dealing with international students (for example, it might be called International Student Support). This usually starts with a warning email and a meeting if the issue is unresolved.
- If your attendance continues to be a concern, the university can escalate the situation. You might have to attend a visa attendance panel or a formal meeting. This will allow you to present evidence and a written statement explaining your absences.
The result can depend on your irregularities. You can withdraw from your course or be given actions or targets to complete to improve your attendance.
Withdrawing From Studies And Suspension Of UK Student Visa
If your university suspends you from the course due to attendance issues, it must officially inform the UKVI to withdraw sponsorship of your student visa.
After this, your student visa will be cancelled, requiring you to leave the UK. International students should follow the minimum attendance for universities in UK requirements. Certain universities have quite stringent attendance policies, so it is advised to follow these rules to avoid any hassles.
FAQs
Does attendance matter in UK universities?
Attendance is essential for many UK universities, especially international students.
What is the minimum attendance for universities in the UK for international students in the?
This will depend on the university and the type of course that you have enrolled for.
How many absences are allowed on a UK student visa?
The maximum continuous period of absence that can be granted without suspending your studies and withdrawing your Student visa is 60 days.
Does attendance affect visa?
If a student remains consistently absent, the university can inform UKVI, which can lead to the suspension of the student visa.
What happens if an international student fails a class in the UK?
The student must reappear for the exam to continue further studies in the UK. This can also vary depending on the university and course.
