2026-05-15
The UKVI Red-Amber-Green system assigns each licensed sponsor an individual score across three metrics. Unlike a balanced scorecard approach, the framework applies what policy analysts term the worst-metric rule: the band is set entirely by the lowest-performing measure.
Why this matters for institutions
A university that excels on visa refusal and enrolment rates may still receive an Amber rating if course completion falls below threshold. The consequence — potential CAS freeze — applies institution-wide, not to individual courses or cohorts.
Practical implications
Compliance teams should monitor all three metrics continuously rather than focusing on aggregate performance. Early intervention on a weakening completion rate, for example, may prevent a costly band downgrade even when other metrics remain strong.
Looking ahead
With the completion rate floor rising in June 2027, sponsors with completion rates between 85% and 90% should plan remediation now to avoid Red band reclassification.
Explore the UKVI RAG framework
Search sponsor band status or read the full compliance guide.