What is an education agent?
An education agent is a professional or organisation that helps students apply to study overseas. They can assist with:
- Choosing a destination country, course and institution
- Preparing and submitting applications
- Guiding you through student visa processes
- Offering pre-departure briefings (including information on traveling, and accommodation)
The choice to use one or not is completely up to you.
More information:
How does it work?
The education agent will support you through your application and in exchange the University will pay them a commission once you enrol. Because of this, many agents do not charge you, the student a fee for their services.
All of the agents we have on our website have completed training about Robert Gordon University, our courses, and our application process. Every agent has also committed to having colleagues in the office who have completed the British Council agent training, and all are registered companies who have gone through due diligence checks.
Agents should be able to help you at any stage from yoru initial application, through to the post-initial application stage, and if you would like support parts of the process, such as just with the visa process.
When you select an agent in your application form, all emails concerning your application to study with us will include the agent, except from any password information.
Remember, the choice to use an education agent is yours.
The choice of where you study is yours, agents are there to guide you.
Selecting an agent
When choosing an agent, either review the British Council’s Global Agents List, or if you are applying to RGU, use the approved agents listed on your country or territory page on our website:
Due to our integrated relationship with our Navitas college on campus, ICRGU, we will also recognise their signed agents too.
Questions you might want to ask an agent
- Which universities do you work with?
- Have you completed the British Council agent training?
- Do you charge for your services? If so, how much and what does it cover?
- What happens if my visa is refused or I change my mind?
- In some countries, are you a licensed immigration advisor?
What if I am unhappy with my education agent?
- Switching Agents: As a rule, RGU do not allow students to switch agents unless you have a concern around your original agent. This is because agents who are targeting students to switch to their agency are not acting ethically.
- Complaints procedure: Our priority is you the student, so you have the option to get in touch with the international office io@rgu.ac.uk with any questions, or if you would like to make a formal complaint, you can find out how:
Complaints
Bonus Tips
- Do your own research: Don’t rely entirely on the agent’s advice.
- Stay involved: Make sure you understand and approve every application and decision.
- Keep copies of everything submitted.
And don’t forget…
A trustworthy education agent is a partner in your journey, not just a service provider. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your instincts. The right guidance now can set you up for a successful study abroad experience.