ATAS aka Academic Technology Approval Scheme is an essential certificate for studying certain postgraduate subjects in the UK. Obtaining an ATAS certificate in the UK is a time-consuming process. Despite the time constraints, post-graduate students must plan for the ATAS certificate in advance to avoid trouble. ATAS certificate for UK processing time is at least 30 working days (6 full weeks).
Table of Contents:
- What is an ATAS Certificate?
- ATAS Certificate Application: Key Steps for New Students
- What Courses Require an ATAS Certificate in the UK?
- How to Apply for an ATAS Certificate in the UK?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ATAS Certificate?
ATAS – Academic Technology Approval Scheme is a vital certificate for studying certain subjects in the UK. The ATAS certificate applies to all international students and researchers (apart from exempt nationalities). If your chosen course requires an ATAS certificate, you would need it while securing a General Student Visa (Tier 4).
UK Immigration Law states that international students are not allowed to study or undertake research in an ATAS-applicable course unless they have provided the university with an ATAS certificate.
ATAS Certificate Application: Key Steps for New Students
New international students must apply for an ATAS certificate before applying for a UK visa. The details are as follows:
- An ATAS certificate is required before applying for permission to enter the UK.
- 6 months before the date of commencement of your course, you will need to apply for the certificate after receiving your offer from the university.
- To provide the students time to apply for their visa, the ATAS certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance.
- Once you receive your conditional offer to study at a UK Higher Education Institution (HEI), you should immediately apply for your ATAS certificate.
- Ensure that your ATAS certificate does not expire before you apply for your UK visa.
- You must apply for your ATAS certificate if you are in the process of applying for asylum.
- An ATAS certificate is not required if you have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.
What Courses Require an ATAS Certificate in the UK?
Numerous courses in the UK require an ATAS certificate. Some of them are as follows:
| Physics (including Nuclear Physics) | Mechanical Engineering |
| Molecular Biology, Biophysics, and Biochemistry | Chemical, Process, and Energy Engineering |
| Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy | Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology |
| Aerospace Engineering | Biology |
| Astronomy | Physical Geographical Sciences |
| Artificial Intelligence | Metallurgy |
| Industrial Biotechnology | Naval Architecture |
| Operational Research | Veterinary Science |
| Botany | Genetics |
How to Apply for an ATAS Certificate in the UK?
The ATAS certificate is filled out online. The online application form has 10 sections. Ensure that there are no mistakes in your application, incorrect information will delay your application. Here’s how you can complete your application process in 10 steps:
- Proposed Course of Study / Area of Research: Your university or research institution will provide you with the appropriate CAH3 code. You can also add your Head of Department if you have not received your research/study supervisor allocation.
- Personal Details: Complete your details carefully and remember to review them before submitting. Provide details of your courses undertaken, relevant roles, and, if applicable, years of service if you have served in the armed forces or trained in Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN). Also, include the funding agency and details of the project if you have ever taken government-funded research.
- Spouse: Mention if you are married and are planning to bring your spouse to the UK. A separate ATAS certificate is required if your spouse is planning to study or research an ATAS-relevant subject while accompanying you.
- Contact Details: The certificate will be sent to the email address, so ensure that your contact details are correct.
- Undergraduate / Postgraduate Studies: Provide as much information as you can about your undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
- Other Studies: Mention if you have undertaken any other studies, and it is relevant to your application.
- Published Papers: Mention your academic or professional papers published, independently or with any co-publishers.
- Employment History: Mention jobs related to your proposed course of study or research area. Include your work experience as well in detail. If you have never been employed, mention the same in the application process.
- Referees: Family members are not acceptable as referees. Details of 2 referees are a must (who have known you for a minimum of 3 years). Ensure that one of the referees is from the academic sector.
- Financial Sponsors: Mention details of any sponsors you have for funding your program. If any family members or you are financing your study, include those details in the relevant section. Mention if the decision on your funding is still pending.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am applying for a UG course in the UK, do I need to apply for ATAS certification?
No, it is not required. However, if you are applying for a UG course with an integrated Master’s, you may need an ATAS certificate for the UK.
I am staying in the UK as an international student, do I need to apply for an ATAS certificate?
Yes, an ATAS certificate is required for the HEI you will attend, even if you are already in the UK on a student visa.
Is there any quick way to obtain the ATAS certificate in the UK?
No, the application takes 30 working days (6 full weeks) to process. The applications are processed in order of receipt. There is no quick way or fast-track service.
I am yet to receive my CAH3 code. Can I apply for an ATAS certificate in the UK?
No, you will require your CAH3 code before completing your ATAS certificate application in the UK.
How long is the ATAS certificate valid in the UK?
The ATAS certificate in the UK is valid for 6 months.
