Choosing the service that is right for you
You will need to obtain a verification number called a ‘Unique Person Identifier (UPI) from the QLS (provided by Ecctis) if you would like to:
- satisfy the English language mandatory requirement for a Skilled Worker visa; and/or
- prove that your PhD awarded by an overseas institution is genuine and equivalent to a UK PhD if you're looking to use your PhD qualification as a 'tradeable point' for a Skilled Worker visa
Satisfying the English language requirement
If you have an academic degree taught in English, but it was awarded by a body from outside the UK, it must be proven, by confirmation from QLS, that your qualification meets the relevant English language requirements.
If you're unsure whether you need to prove your English proficiency, please read our guidance or contact the Staff Immigration Team hr-visas@bath.ac.uk.
Choosing the correct service
Please visit the Qualification and Language Service (QLS) and select:
- English Proficiency and Qualification Comparison − if you need to evidence that your overseas qualification meets the English level requirements
You can use this same service if you also need to prove your PhD qualification meets the tradeable points criteria, as well as proving your level of English language.
Satisfying the PhD tradeable point requirement
If you're looking to use your PhD qualification as a ‘tradeable point’ for any role listed as being eligible for PhD points in the Government’s Appendix Skilled Occupations, and your recognised qualification was awarded to you by an overseas institution, QLS must verify it as genuine and equivalent to a UK PhD.
You will need to provide a verification number called a ‘Unique Person Identifier (UPI)’ when prompted so this can be included on your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Choosing the correct service
Please visit the Qualification and Language Service (QLS) and select:
- Qualification Comparison − if you only need to evidence your PhD qualification to meet the tradeable points criteria for your Skilled Worker visa application
If you also need to prove your English language, as well as proving your PhD qualification meets the tradeable points criteria, please select:
- English Proficiency and Qualification Comparison