The list of local agents and representatives of UK institutions in Sri Lanka has been compiled from the information received through UK institutions.

Please note that British Council, Sri Lanka does not run any accreditation scheme for agents. Hence, this list should not be interpreted as a list of 'recommended' agents.

Each agency has its own policy regarding fee/charges, etc. British Council advises students to find out all the details before deciding to apply through an agent. British Council recommends that students research and decide on which institution they wish to apply to and then approach the respective agent.

British Council is not responsible for the actions of any agent.

Why should I consider using an educational agent?
Many UK institutions appoint local representatives, commonly called "agents" in Sri Lanka to assist them with promoting their courses and advising students on how to gain admission. They do this as they recognise that it is not always easy for a student to obtain application forms, prospectuses and advice, even though a lot of information is available on the internet.

These agents are given a contract by the institution to provide FREE advice to any student who is interested in studying in the UK. The institution will usually pay the agent a fee for this service or if they send the institution a student. This fee is between the agent and the institution. The institution should provide the agent with brochures, application forms and training on their courses and institution.

Do all UK institutions appoint an agent?
No. Many institutions choose not to appoint an agent, in which case the student should contact the institution directly by e-mail, phone, fax or letter to request information and guidance.

Do I have to use an agent?
No. Unless directed by the institution to do so it is up to the student to decide whether they will need the advice and assistance of an agent to guide them on studying at a particular institution.

How do I know if the agent has been officially appointed by the Institution?
The easiest way to verify this would be by looking on the institution's website under "International Students" to see if the agent is listed or to contact the International Office directly to ask them if the agent has been officially appointed. Alternatively you can contact the Education Information Service, British Council Sri Lanka for guidance.

What should I expect from the agent?
Free information and advice on studying in the UK which should include advice on courses, application procedures, accommodation, scholarships, part time and full time employment, rankings, visa requirements and pre departure assistance.

You should also expect to receive free of charge an application form to any of the institutions that you are interested in applying and are represented by that agent.

What should I not expect from the agent?
A charge for any application forms, brochures or advice that the agent has given to you - all this should be free of charge.

You should also not expect the agent to have in depth knowledge on the syllabus content of each and every course offered by an Institution. You may have to contact the institution directly to obtain detailed information on course content.

Will the agent charge me for sending the application to the institution?

Most agents do not charge you for anything including sending the application to the institution. However, it is not unreasonable for the agent to charge you a nominal amount to cover postage/courier charges.

Will the agent give me a prospectus?
Yes if they have sufficient supplies and this should be free of charge. If the agent does not give you a prospectus then they should photocopy the pages that contain your course and assist you in obtaining a full copy.

Do I need to make an appointment to see an agent?
In most cases you do not. However it would be wise to telephone the agent first to ask them what time their office is open and whether you need a prior appointment.

If the agent is hosting a visit by a UK institution and you wish to see the visiting representative then you should telephone the agent as most likely an appointment will be required.

Will the agent require me to sign any agreements to use only them?
No. If they do this then you should report the matter to the British Council or the institution you would like to study at. It is up to you whether you wish to continue to visit the agent or whether you would prefer to handle your admission to the institution on your own or via another agent.

Some agents "guarantee admission" - how is this possible?
It is not possible for any agent to guarantee you admission to a UK Institution as the decision is taken by the Institution directly and not by the agent. Should the agent advise that they are authorised to make the decision on the application you should contact the institution directly to verify if this is true.

Are the agents allowed to withhold any offer letters addressed to me?
Sometimes agents are asked to keep original offer letters by an Institution until the student has paid a deposit. If they are required to do this then they should be able to provide you with proof of this instruction from the institution, otherwise they are not allowed to withhold any offer letters in your name.

Some agents advise that the student visa is very difficult to obtain and that it is unlikely that I will get one without their help - is this true?
To obtain a student visa you need to prove to the Visa officer, called the Entry Clearance Officer, that you have the liquid funds to cover both your tuition fees and living costs for the entire duration of your course and that you can afford to spend this money without causing unnecessary financial hardship to your family. Generally speaking liquid assets would mean cash held in bank accounts, fixed deposits, a study loan or scholarships. Most agents do have experience in guiding students on the documents required when applying for a student visa but this does not mean that you should use an agent to apply for a visa. If you feel confident that all your documents and finances are in order you can apply for a visa independently and it will hopefully be issued.

There are so many agents, how do I select which one to use?
The British Council maintains a list of agents which is verified with the institution directly prior to publication on the list. It would be best to visit the office of several agents to meet their counsellors and gauge the type and quality of advice you receive yourself. Ask the counsellors if they have been to the UK themselves and whether the Universities hold interviews in their offices. Ask for details of past students who have used them that you can e-mail to get further information. Ask the agent what sort of services they provide free of cost to assist you with your admission to the Institution and any post arrival assistance.