- Who needs it
- Some nationals on sensitive STEM courses
- Exempt
- UK, EU, US and several other nationalities
- Told by
- Your university (offer/CAS)
- Cost / where
- Free, applied online via GOV.UK
Key takeaways
- ATAS applies only to certain sensitive science, engineering and technology courses.
- Nationals of exempt countries (UK, EU, US and others) do not need ATAS.
- Your university states on your offer or CAS whether you need one.
- You apply free online via GOV.UK before your visa application.
When ATAS is required
The Academic Technology Approval Scheme exists for national-security reasons and applies to certain postgraduate (and a smaller number of undergraduate) courses in sensitive subjects such as advanced engineering, materials, certain areas of computing and the physical sciences. It is required only for students who are not nationals of exempt countries — a list that includes the UK, EU member states, the US and several others. Your university determines whether your specific course needs ATAS and will tell you on your offer or CAS.
How to get one
If you need ATAS, you apply for the certificate free of charge through the GOV.UK website, providing details of your course, supervisor and research area. Processing takes time, so apply as soon as you know you need it and before you apply for your visa — you cannot get your CAS finalised or your visa without it where it is required. Study UK Now checks whether your course needs ATAS and helps you apply in good time.
How Study UK Now helps with this
Get expert, end-to-end help — from university matching to your visa.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an ATAS certificate for my UK course?
Only if your course is in a sensitive science, engineering or technology subject AND you are not a national of an exempt country (such as the UK, EU, US and several others). Your university will state on your offer or CAS whether you need one. You apply free via GOV.UK before your visa — always confirm your specific requirement.
How long does an ATAS application take?
ATAS processing takes time and can be longer in busy periods, so apply as soon as your university confirms you need a certificate — well before your visa application, as you cannot complete the visa process without ATAS where it is required. Check the current processing guidance on GOV.UK and apply early.
Sources — verified June 2026
Visa, fee and policy details change. Always confirm the latest on the official source before you rely on it.