The UKVI Start-up Scheme allows early stage but high potential entrepreneurs from outside the EEA to come to the UK for up to 2 years to develop innovative business ideas or entrepreneurial skills. Aston University is a Start-up Endorsing Body.

The University’s Start-up scheme is available to those who have completed a course of study at Aston University in the last 5 years that have been assessed as having an innovative, viable and scalable business idea. 

• Aston International students who have completed their studies in the last 5 years.
• You cannot have already set up a business in the UK previously.
• You must demonstrate that your business idea is innovative, viable and scalable.
• You must have applied and been accepted by the BSEEN programme.

In line with UKVI guidance to Endorsing Bodies, Aston University will assess all applications to the BSEEN against the criteria that are outlined below:

You must apply for the next available intake of businesses onto the BSEEN Programme - once you have been accepted, you should make an appointment to speak to an adviser at The Hub, who will help you with the visa application process. 

In most cases, we recommend you do these things as far ahead as possible to make sure you meet all the requirements. 

More information can also be found on the UK Government website.