Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

The University of Edinburgh hold a student sponsor licence as a 'higher education provider with a track record of compliance'. This means we can issue a CAS for the Student visa route. You'll need a valid CAS number in order to apply for a Student visa.

CAS Issuing 2025 Update: UCAS Embargo

Due to the UCAS results embargo, access to certain systems will be restricted for both staff and students during the following periods:

  • UCAS results embargo: Monday 28 July 18:00 to Thursday 14 August 08:00

During these times, you may not be able to view immigration details, and our team’s tools for issuing CAS will also be restricted.

If you have received and accepted an unconditional offer of study, and requested your CAS, please be assured that the Student Immigration Services team have received your request. We are entering our busiest part of the year.  However, please be assured that after embargo, we will process your CAS as soon as we are able. When your draft CAS is available, you will receive an email with instructions on how to log-in and check and confirm your CAS details. 

What is a CAS number, and why do I need one? 

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is an electronic document that generates a reference number you need to be able to apply for a visa. A CAS number confirms to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that we wish to sponsor your study in the UK.

Before requesting a CAS

You'll need to read our Guidance for Issuing a CAS. By requesting a CAS, you are confirming that you have read and understood the principles outlined in this document.

Read our CAS issuance guidance

How to get a CAS number

New students

You should request a CAS as soon as you have accepted an unconditional offer (as long as the admissions team have checked all required documents). How long it takes to receive your CAS number depends on your level of study and the time of year.

Current students

If you are a current student, you are returning from interruption, or if you have deferred your studies, you can request a CAS by contacting us through our enquiry form.

Deferred students

You will need a new CAS number if you have deferred your studies.

Pre-sessional students

If you have an offer for an English Pre-sessional programme, you do not need to request a CAS from us. We will issue your CAS number once we receive the required information from your school.

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