Agent Quality Framework
Cardiff Metropolitan University is committed to the UK Agent Quality Framework (AQF) and upholds its standards in all partnerships with education agents.
The full AQF commitment for higher education providers can be viewed here.
We expect all recruitment partners to share this commitment by providing students with accurate, transparent and ethical advice at all times. You can find out more information regarding the Agent Quality Framework and its resources on their dedicated website here.
Annual Agent Performance Review
Cardiff Met conducts an annual performance review of all contracted agents between September and December. A more comprehensive review is also carried out at when deciding whether to renew an agent’s contract.
Each review considers:
- Application numbers
- Percentage of rejected applications
- Conversion rate (application to enrolment)
- Percentage of non‑enrollers (visa granted but student does not enrol)
- Percentage of withdrawals (student enrols but withdraws from their studies)
- Percentage of visa refusals
Traffic-Light Rating System
Percentage‑based metrics are given a Red, Amber or Green rating, based on the standards used in UKVI’s Basic Compliance Assessment (BCA).
You’ll find more detailed information on the UKVI BCA guidance here.
Feedback and Outcomes
Following each review, Cardiff Met will provide agents with:
- A clear explanation of all results
- Identification of any red or amber areas
- Expectations and actions required to improve performance
Where partners consistently fall below expected standards, Cardiff Met may take appropriate action, including the early termination of an agent’s contract before its expiry date.
By working together under the AQF, we can protect the interests of students, uphold Cardiff Met’s reputation, and maintain high‑quality global recruitment partnerships.