Planning to study abroad? While researching universities and applying to different countries, you might’ve come across terms like CAS, COE, LOA, SOP, and more. These can sound a little confusing at first — especially when each country uses different admission jargon. But don’t worry, we’ve got you! Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the most common admission-related terms across popular study destinations.
United Kingdom – What is CAS?
In the UK, once you get a university offer and meet all the conditions, the university will issue something called a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies). This is a unique reference number that confirms your admission and is required for your UK student visa application. It’s not just a document — it includes details like your course, start date, fees, and sponsorship info. Without a CAS, you can’t apply for a UK visa, so it’s a key step in the process.
Australia – What is COE?
Australia uses something similar, but here it’s called a COE (Confirmation of Enrolment). After paying part of your tuition fee and getting your GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) approved, the university sends this COE. It’s an official document with your course details and is necessary for your Australian student visa application. Without the COE, your visa application can’t move forward.
USA – What is the I-20?
If you’re heading to the US, the university will issue you a Form I-20. This is your ticket to apply for the F-1 student visa. It contains all the details about your course, university, fee estimates, and your SEVIS ID. You’ll need to pay the SEVIS fee before your visa interview. Keep this document safe — even after your visa is approved, you’ll need it at the airport during immigration!
Canada – What is LOA?
In Canada, you will first receive a LOA (Letter of Acceptance) from your college or university once your application is approved. This LOA is mandatory for your student visa (study permit) application. Some students may also get a DLI number mentioned in the letter — this confirms your institution is recognized by the Canadian government.
New Zealand – What is Offer of Place?
New Zealand universities send out an Offer of Place, which is basically your admission letter. Once you accept the offer and meet financial requirements, this document is used for your visa process. Similar to COE and CAS, this confirms your admission and helps Immigration New Zealand verify your application.
France – What is Campus France NOC & Admission Letter?
France has a slightly different process. You’ll get an admission letter from the university, but before applying for a visa, you’ll go through Campus France, which issues an NOC (No Objection Certificate). This step verifies your documents and gives you the go-ahead to start your visa process officially.
Italy – What is Pre-enrolment & University Letter?
In Italy, students often receive a pre-enrolment confirmation or a university admission letter, which is then submitted to the Italian consulate. This step is essential for your visa. Italy may also ask you to register your documents via a portal called Universitaly. The process may differ slightly depending on the region, but the university letter remains the core part.
At first, all these terms — CAS, COE, LOA, I-20, and more — might seem like an alphabet soup, but each one means: “Congratulations, you’ve been accepted!” And we know how exciting and overwhelming this process can be. That’s exactly where we come in. Whether it’s understanding which document is needed for which country or helping you step-by-step with applications, offers, and visa files, we’re here to guide you through every stage of your study abroad journey. Just focus on your dreams, and we’ll help with the rest.