UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF)

University of Staffordshire is committed to the UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF) and pledges to create and maintain the highest standards of agent management, ensuring the UK remains the leading study destination for international students.  We expect all approved Recruitment Agents to adhere to the recommendations and guidelines it provides. We are committed to:

  1. Empowering student choice and enabling informed decision-making.
  2. Ensuring good agent governance and professionalism.
  3. Promoting ethical agent practices, professional knowledge, and competency.
  4. Increasing transparency and accountability.
UK Agent Quality Framework logo

You can read more about choosing a Recruitment Agent on the British Council's student guide to choosing an education agent, and you can also check the Database of Certified Counsellors | British Council.

What is a Recruitment Agent and what do they do?

Recruitment agents can:

  • Provide accurate, honest information and advice about the University of Staffordshire, our range of courses and scholarships
  • Advise you on entry requirements, applications processes and deadlines
  • Help submit your application and track the application's progress
  • Assist you with your visa application, accommodation options and other study preparations
  • Contact the university on your behalf 

Important: Our agents are not allowed to guarantee admission, scholarships, or visas. All admission decisions are made by the University based on official entry requirements.

The agent has a contract with the University and will receive commission for students that enrol at University of Staffordshire.

How can I identify an Approved Recruitment Agent?

What are my rights as a student?

When working with a recruitment agent, you are entitled to:

  • Fair and respectful treatment, without discrimination or bias
  • Make decisions without pressure or coercion
  • Reliable support with your university and visa applications 
  • Ask for clarification if information is unclear or confusing
  • Report any concerns you might have about an agent’s behaviour or the information they provide.

What if I have concerns?

If you feel that an agent has given you incorrect information, pressured you into making a decision, or has not acted professionally, please let us know immediately. We take your concerns very seriously.

You should inform the university immediately if an agent: 

  • Encourages you to do anything dishonest or pressures you into giving them money
  • Makes decisions about your application without discussing this with you
  • Gives false information about tuition fees, scholarships, or visa processing times
  • Acts unprofessionally or aggressively;  

Email us at internationalrecruitment@staffs.ac.uk

Please include the name of the agent and (if applicable) your applicant ID. All complaints are taken seriously and handled confidentially.


for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025

for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2026

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021