International students

Your University of Glasgow Representative

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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What is a recruitment agent and what do they do? 

An agent or agency is an individual or organisation that offers advice to students about studying overseas.

Agents work in partnership with universities to support you through the entire selection and application process. They usually represent a portfolio of universities and will make personalised recommendations based on your academic qualifications, the subject area you wish to study in, and your budget. You are under no obligation to use an agent to apply to the University of Glasgow, but you may wish to.

Agents can support you in making an informed decision about your studies, but the decision is still yours.  

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Why would I use an agent? 

Agents can offer support and useful information at all stages of the application process, which might be especially helpful if you have not travelled or lived abroad before.

Agents contracted by the University of Glasgow have been especially trained to provide applicants with relevant information to studying at Glasgow, and to offer informed and bespoke guidance on choosing and applying for your future studies. They can advise on the courses available and the suitability of your qualifications and background, can support you with gathering the necessary documents for your application and travel guidance, and can liaise with the university on your behalf.  

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How can I choose an agent? 

If you have decided to use an agent to support with your application to the University of Glasgow then you should refer to our Representative search function (above) to find the approved agents that we work with who are operating in your country. This lists agents who are authorised to represent the University of Glasgow and have received bespoke training from us to help them do so.  

You can also refer to the British Council website, which gives additional advice about choosing an agent and lists accredited agents who have completed UK Certified Counsellor Training with the British Council.  

When you’ve chosen an agent to approach, remember that no agent can promise guaranteed admission, scholarships or fast-tracked visa process. If you’re unsure about any of the information you’re being given then always verify this with us by reaching out to your regional University of Glasgow representative or making an online enquiry.  

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What are the responsibilities of an agent? 

Agents have a duty to provide honest and transparent information about the universities that they represent and the application process.  

They should: 

• be reliable and trustworthy in the provision of accurate and up-to-date information; 
• ask questions, listen to your answers, and give personalised advice based on what exactly you are looking for;  
• be well informed on all aspects of the study experience, or able to locate such information when asked;  
• respect your choices; 
• maintain open communication channels with you throughout the application process;  
• act in your best interests at all times. 

They should not:  

• be biased towards any one institution; 
• act without your permission; 
• encourage you to do anything which may compromise your application or visa; 
• make offers of admission on behalf of the university

If your agent does not fulfil these responsibilities, you should inform the university via our agent complaints procedure. 

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What are my rights as a student? 

When working with an 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. 

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When should I make a complaint about my agent, and how do I do this? 

We take your concerns very seriously. You should inform the university immediately if an agent: 

• encourages you to do anything dishonest; 
• pressures you into giving them money; 
• withholds information or documentation: 
• makes decisions without your permission;  
• is unable to provide basic information, or gives inaccurate information, about a university they represent; 
• coerces you into applying to – or accepting an offer at – a university you don’t wish to study at; 
• acts unprofessionally or aggressively;  
• doesn’t provide the level of service you are entitled to.  

If you wish to make a complaint about any of the issues listed here, or any other concerns you have about your agent, you should contact us at Student.Recruitment@glasgow.ac.uk. Please include your full name, your applicant ID number, the name of your agent and (if appropriate) any counsellors, and as much detail as possible about the situation.  

We will investigate all complaints discreetly, so please do not worry about this information being shared with the agent.  

Our resolution of the complaint will vary depending on the nature and severity of the concern. In any case we will likely: 

• meet with the agent to review their performance and procedures; 
• provide increased training for the agent; 
• un-tag the agent from your application;  
• issue a formal warning, where appropriate. 

In extreme circumstances, we can also terminate an agent’s contract with the University of Glasgow.  

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Issues or problems with representatives

If you are concerned your chosen representative is not meeting the expectations outlined above and wish to change representative, please contact the University of Glasgow's International Office immediately at Student.Recruitment@glasgow.ac.uk