Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate: Complete Guide 2024

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate is essential for international students and researchers subject to UK immigration control who are studying or researching postgraduate-level sensitive subjects. These areas include advanced military technology and weapons of mass destruction. ATAS certificate cost is free, but obtaining one is mandatory for nationals of non-exempt countries. Learn what courses require an ATAS certificate and how to apply in the rest of the blog.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate, issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), grants security clearance for international students and researchers studying subjects with potential applications in developing or delivering weapons of mass destruction, such as certain science, mathematics, engineering, technology, or medicine fields.

ATAS clearance is essential for:

• Student visa applications
• Course registration for those with limited leave to remain or other immigration statuses
• If course details change or the end date extends by more than three months

Eligibility for Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate

Whether your course requires an ATAS certificate depends on the CAH3 code outlined in your CAS and university offer letter. Most visa categories need ATAS clearance, and you'll need to reapply if your course details change. Nationals of the UK, EU, EEA, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, or the USA are exempt from the academic technology approval scheme requirements for visas applied after 5 October 2020.

What You Need To Apply For an ATAS Certificate?

Understanding what is ATAS and the requirements for the academic technology approval scheme is crucial for a successful application. To apply for an ATAS certificate online, you need:

• Programme Details: Information about your programme of study/research, including the relevant CAH3 code provided by your HEI/research institute.
• Offer Letter: For student applications only, your conditional offer letter from your Higher Education Institution (HEI).

You will also need to provide information on:

• Previous Studies
• Previous and Current Employment (if applicable)
• Published Papers
• Optional Modules: All possible modules you might take in a taught Master's (if unsure, include all possible modules)
• Research Area and Description: For research degrees and researchers
• Referees: Full names and contact details of 2 referees
• Sponsorship Details: How you will be sponsored whilst in the UK

When to Apply For an ATAS Certificate?

After receiving your offer from the relevant university, you have to apply for the ATAS Certificate as soon as you can. It is advised that you submit an application for the ATAS Certificate 6 months prior to the start of your course.

How To Apply For the ATAS Certificate?

Here's a step-by-step explanation of the process to apply for an ATAS certificate:

1. Check Your Offer Letter: Review your university offer letter to determine if your programme requires ATAS clearance. Note the CAH3 code provided in the offer letter.

2. Create an Account: Visit the ATAS website and register with your email address from a globally recognized provider like Outlook, Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail, etc., to avoid firewall issues.

3. Complete the Online Application: Fill out the online application form on the ATAS website. Provide details such as your programme of study, CAH3 code, previous education, employment history (if applicable), published papers, optional modules (for taught Master's), research area and description (for research degrees), referees' contact details, and sponsorship information.

4. Submit Your Application: Once complete, submit your application through the ATAS website.

5. Wait for a Decision: Await an email notification regarding the status of your application. If successful, you will receive a PDF of your ATAS certificate via email.

Following these steps ensures you meet the ATAS requirements and can proceed with your studies or research in the UK.

What Courses Require an ATAS certificate?

The following list outlines postgraduate courses in sensitive subjects that necessitate an ATAS Certificate for study or research in the UK:

ATAS Certificate Sample

Here's a sample ATAS certificate providing a template for academic clearance under the ATAS scheme, essential for international students and researchers in sensitive UK study areas.

This is to certify that [Applicant's Full Name] has been granted clearance under the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) to pursue studies/research in [Programme Title] at [University Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date].

Issued on [Date of Issue]

[Signature of Authorizing Officer]

[Name of Authorizing Officer]

[Position]

[University/Institution Name]

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate Processing Time

The processing of ATAS applications for students and researchers takes at least 30 working days, or 6 full weeks. In order to maintain impartiality and uniformity, applications are handled chronologically. "Fast track" service is not available. It is advisable that you submit your ATAS application as soon as possible.

Validity of an ATAS Certificate

An ATAS certificate is good for 6 months after it is issued, giving applicants time to submit their visa application. As soon as you receive a conditional offer to study at a UK Higher Education Institution (HEI), you should apply for your ATAS certificate.

Get Your ATAS Certificate With The Help of GetGIS

GetGIS provides comprehensive assistance to streamline your ATAS certificate application process. Whether you're navigating program requirements or completing forms, GetGIS’s expert guidance ensures a smooth path to obtaining your ATAS certificate, empowering you to focus on your academic and research aspirations without bureaucratic hurdles.

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