How do I access the PFE Portal? +

Please click here to login to the PFE Portal.

Our final grading for the inspection was not as good as we expected, can we ask for a re-inspection? +

Yes, at ISI's discretion and subject to additional fees being paid, you can re-apply in a subsequent application round. 

A minimum period of 24 months between an initial inspection and a re-inspection is required for new colleges or those with a probationary license.

What happens if my college does not meet the Standards required for an Educational Oversight inspection? +

If your college receives an ‘Unsatisfactory’ rating overall, or does not meet the required Standards during a Follow-up Visit, it will not be able to reapply for an Educational Oversight inspection for two years if you are a new college or have a probationary license.

Can we complain about the inspection? +

Colleges should contact the ISI Office as soon as possible if they have concerns about the inspection which they cannot resolve with the lead inspector.

Any matters of factual accuracy can be raised when the college receives the draft inspection report.

Other matters of complaint may also be raised at the factual accuracy stage – and if necessary through the ISI Complaints Procedure

Please be aware that raising a complaint will not necessarily delay publication of the report.

How often will I have an Educational Oversight inspection? +

You will have an Educational Oversight inspection once every four years. 

However, a material change in circumstances can result in an Educational Oversight inspection at any time during the four-year cycle.

How should my college report material changes to ISI? +

You must report any material changes within 28 days by sending an email to pfe@isi.net with ‘Change in Circumstances’ in the subject line.

Who can apply for Educational Oversight? +

ISI accepts applications from colleges offering education provision at Level 3 (approved on the Regulated Qualifications Framework) and English language courses at Level B2 and above (approved on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

English colleges wishing to sponsor students on courses at Level 4 and above should contact the Office for Students (OfS) who are the Educational Oversight body for higher education.

A college applying for Educational Oversight must: 

  • be based in England or Wales
  • be privately funded or have a separate privately funded provision
  • have provided courses for UK students: for a continuous period of at least two years, and one of those courses must meet the Home Office requirements for students on Student visas and be full time (15 hrs + per week)
  • provide evidence of address
  • Undergo a financial sustainability check.
What happens if my application is unsuccessful? +

If your application is unsuccessful, you will not be inspected for Educational Oversight. 

There is no appeals process for unsuccessful applications.

Is my application fee refundable? +

No. Fees are non-refundable.

Who should I contact if I have a question that is not answered here? +

Please email pfe@isi.net and we will respond within five working days.