What is an education scam?

An education scam is a type of fraud where criminals trick people by offering fake educational services, qualifications, admissions, scholarships, or student-related opportunities in exchange for money or personal information. (MaPS)

Common education scams in the UK include:

• Fake colleges or universities that offer unrecognised degrees or certificates. (Consumer Advice)
• Fraudulent admissions offers claiming guaranteed entry to a university if you pay a fee. (GOV.UK)
• Fake scholarships or grants requiring an “application fee” or bank details. (MaPS)
• Student visa scams where criminals pretend to help obtain a UK visa or immigration approval. (GOV.UK)
• Student loan phishing scams that impersonate official organisations to steal personal or banking information. (GOV.UK)
• Fake qualification certificates sold as genuine academic credentials. (GOV.UK)

Warning signs

• Promises that seem too good to be true.
• Pressure to pay quickly.
• Guaranteed admission, degrees, or visas.
• Requests for payment by bank transfer, gift card, or cryptocurrency.
• Unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls. (MaPS)

How to protect yourself

• Check that a university or college is officially recognised.
• Verify scholarship and visa information through official sources.
• Never share passwords or banking details in response to unexpected messages.
• Be cautious of anyone guaranteeing academic or immigration outcomes. (GOV.UK)

In simple terms, an education scam is any dishonest scheme that uses education, qualifications, student finance, or university admissions to steal money or personal information. (MaPS)