At Bournemouth University, you can apply either directly or with support from an education representative.
We treat all applications equally, regardless of how you apply – using the same process and criteria.
We work with a carefully selected group of official education representatives who are trained, monitored, and evaluated to ensure high-quality support. They can help you:
• Choose a course
• Submit your application
• Find accommodation
• Apply for a visa
• Access other services suited to your needs.
If you enrol, we pay the representative a fee. While you may choose to use other agents, we strongly recommend using one of our authorised partners listed on this page.
Please be aware that some unofficial representatives may falsely claim to work with us. Always check our official list before proceeding. You can also refer to the student and parent guide to choosing an education agent to feel more confident in your decision.
UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF) Commitment
The UK education sector has established the UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF) to make sure you receive the highest standard of support if you choose to work with one of our authorised education agents or counsellors.
The AQF provides a set of standards and resources to ensure agents and counsellors:
• Have up-to-date knowledge about studying in the UK
• Understand the UK’s visa and immigration system
• Offer advice that is aligned with your best interests and supports your study journey.
This UK-wide initiative improves the experience of international students and ensures applications are handled correctly.
Committing to the AQF is a requirement of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for all education providers working with recruitment agents.
Bournemouth University is committed to meeting these requirements and upholding the four key AQF principles:
• Empowering student choice and enabling informed decision-making
• Ensuring good agent governance and professionalism
• Promoting ethical agent practices, professional knowledge, and competency
• Increasing transparency and accountability.
National Code of Ethical Practice & Complaints Process
All Bournemouth University agents must follow the National Code of Ethical Practice for UK Education Agents which outlines the standards and best practices that all agents representing UK education providers must follow.
We recognise that, in some cases, applicants may wish to raise a concern about the service they have received from an education agent.
If you have a complaint about one of our authorised representatives, please follow the Bournemouth University Education Agent Complaints Process and submit this form via email at: [email protected]
If you have any questions about the AQF or using one of our partner agents, please contact us using the details above.
BU Education Agent complaints process
As part of our commitment to the Agent Quality Framework (AQF), all of our contracted agents are required to adhere to The National Code of Ethical Practice for UK Education Agents when helping international students apply to BU.
However, we do recognise that occasionally applicants may have reason to raise a concern about the education agent who has supported them with their application process. If you wish to submit a complaint about one of our education agents, please read the Bournemouth University Education Agent Complaints Process and submit this form via email: [email protected]
