A risk framework is set to be added as more universities in the United Kingdom sign the Agent Quality Framework. Over 16,000 agents representing 126 countries have enrolled in the Agent Quality Framework (AQF), a collaborative initiative between BUILA, UUKi, the British Council, and UKCISA. Currently, 5,200 agents have achieved certification, with this number expected to rise as more universities join the AQF.
Furthermore, discussions held within the education sector have highlighted the need for improvements in the UK’s admission and student recruitment processes. In response, UUK has announced a review of the AQF to enhance its effectiveness. This includes proposals for a broader UK data infrastructure to detect and address unethical practices in the sector.
The key areas of focus in detection include ensuring the quality and consistency of foundation programmes for both international and domestic students, updating entry requirements, and clarifying the applicability of the admissions code of practice to international students.
Moreover, efforts to proactively address challenges continue, with Ula Tang-Plowman, speaking at the Scottish Universities International Group Conference, introducing a risk framework. This mechanism facilitates the sharing of international agent feedback among universities and commercial sector bodies, enabling informed decision-making regarding agent partnerships. If some negative patterns of behaviour are witnessed by the agent, then reporting the same might be helpful for the institutions and universities.
London Higher is notably increasing its support for the AQF and is developing London-specific guidance for universities and students on selecting reputable agents. Furthermore, the Russell Group spokesperson confirmed their commitment to the AQF, although some universities have only recently joined the initiative for some time.
