Role Overview: Compliance Officer – International Student Advice & Compliance

City St George’s, University of London, a fusion of City, University of London and St George’s, University of London, is one of the largest higher education hubs in London, serving as a key supplier of the health workforce and a major academic destination. This specific role falls within the International Student Advice & Compliance Team, which focuses on ensuring the university remains compliant with regulations tied to international students’ immigration and visa requirements under the UK Home Office guidelines.

As a Compliance Officer, your primary responsibility will be managing the university’s obligations under the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) framework, specifically concerning international students on Student visas. With a diverse international community of over 5,000 students, your efforts will support the institution in maintaining its highly valued sponsorship license. You will play a critical part in tasks such as the issuance of Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), student registration, attendance monitoring, and student engagement, while also responding to complex inquiries from students and university staff. Your work is vital to ensuring the institution remains a compliant and supportive environment for international students.

Advice for Applicants with an International Education Perspective:

If you’re applying for this role, particularly as a professional with experience in international education or compliance, it is essential to emphasize your understanding of both the regulatory landscape and the challenges faced by global students studying in the UK. Below are some key points to consider while preparing your application:

1. Highlight Your Knowledge of UKVI Regulations

The job requires expertise in the UKVI Points-Based Immigration System and Student visa sponsorship duties. Make sure to clearly outline your familiarity with these regulations, especially any direct experience you have had managing compliance for a similar institution. If you have worked with CAS issuance, student attendance monitoring systems, or Home Office audits, detail these experiences in your CV and cover letter.

1. Demonstrate Attention to Detail and Accuracy

As this role demands exceptional accuracy, especially in processing immigration paperwork like CAS, provide examples of situations where you maintained high standards in administrative or compliance-focused roles. If you have experience dealing with regulatory audits or deadlines, mention how you ensured compliance without errors.

1. Show Your Cultural Sensitivity and Student Focus

With over 5,000 international students, the ability to work with a diverse population is crucial. Highlight any roles where you have supported international students or stakeholders, as well as your ability to explain complex policies or regulations in a clear and culturally sensitive manner. Proficiency in additional languages or experience in cross-cultural communication may further distinguish you from other applicants.

1. Communicate Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

The university places a strong emphasis on promoting EDI. Use your application to share any examples where you have supported initiatives that foster inclusivity, either professionally or personally. This could include mentoring international students, improving accessibility in higher education, or implementing diverse recruitment strategies.

1. Emphasize Professionalism in Student Support

Since the role requires balancing compliance with a student-centered approach, outline any previous experience where you supported students in adherence to regulatory or institutional guidelines while also respecting boundaries of confidentiality and professional engagement.

1. Discuss Adaptability to Hybrid Work Environments

The university offers flexibility through hybrid working arrangements. If you have prior experience managing tasks effectively in both home and on-campus settings, mention how you can remain focused and productive while collaborating remotely with colleagues and stakeholders.

1. Tailor to the University’s Mission

As City St George’s describes itself as “the University of business, practice and the professions,” connect your skills to this vision. For example, mention your ability to bridge academic and professional priorities through effective management of international student compliance, ensuring both student success and adherence to professional standards.

Key Reminders for Applying:

• Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted by 03 June 2025 at 11:59 pm.
• Guaranteed Interview Scheme: If applicable, disclose any eligibility for the guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants.
• Apply Online: Follow specific application instructions via the university’s online portal, and ensure your CV and cover letter are tailored to highlight your suitability.
• Prepare for Hybrid Work Expectations: Be prepared to discuss how you would divide your time effectively between on-campus and remote work, if applicable.
• Training and Development Opportunities: As City St George’s provides extensive staff development, mention your enthusiasm for continuous learning and professional growth in line with their offerings.

This role offers a unique opportunity to support the university’s mission while playing an integral part in enhancing the international student experience. If you are diligent, detail-oriented, and passionate about compliance and student support in a global context, this position will enable you to make a meaningful impact