OISC Level 1 Exam Summary 2024 PDF

**Comprehensive Summary for OISC Level 1 Exam and Relevant Applications** The **OISC Code of Standards 2024** defines the framework for providing immigration advice at different competency levels. For **Level 1**, advisers are permitted to handle straightforward immigration applications and advice....

**Comprehensive Summary for OISC Level 1 Exam and Relevant Applications** The **OISC Code of Standards 2024** defines the framework for providing immigration advice at different competency levels. For **Level 1**, advisers are permitted to handle straightforward immigration applications and advice. Here's a detailed breakdown to guide preparation for the Level 1 exam and understanding of the applications you are authorized to process: **1. Scope of OISC Level 1 Certification** **Permitted Work** - Advising and assisting clients with: - **Entry clearance applications**: Includes visitor visas, family visas, and student visas. - **In-country applications**: - Extensions of leave to remain. - Applications under family and private life rules (e.g., spouse visas, dependent children). - Applications under work and study routes (e.g., Skilled Worker visa). - Applications for switching immigration categories (where permitted by rules). - **Settlement applications** (Indefinite Leave to Remain). - **Naturalisation and Registration** as a British citizen. **Excluded Work** - Advising on appeals or judicial reviews. - Complex cases, such as asylum or human rights claims, unless directly linked to straightforward family routes. - Representing clients at Immigration Tribunals (Level 2 or 3 required). **2. Key Exam Topics** **Ethics and Standards** - Advisers must act with honesty, integrity, and in the best interests of their clients. - Clear understanding of the OISC's **Code of Standards**, including: - Client care. - Confidentiality. - Avoiding conflicts of interest. - Ensuring competency for all advice provided. **Client Care and Engagement** - Advisers must: - Deliver **client care letters**: Outline services offered, fees, and complaints procedures. - Obtain written agreements before commencing work. - Ensure clients understand their rights and options. **Documentation and Records** - Prepare accurate and compliant applications with required evidence. - Maintain well-organized records: - Case details. - Correspondence with clients and authorities. - Copies of submitted documents. **Immigration Rules Knowledge** - Familiarity with: - Home Office application forms and guidance. - Eligibility criteria for the above-mentioned visa types. - Documentary evidence requirements. **Regulatory Compliance** - Advisers must comply with OISC monitoring, reporting, and audit requirements. - Understand data protection laws, including GDPR compliance for handling client information. **Professional Boundaries** - Recognize when to refer cases to higher-level advisers (e.g., complex cases involving legal precedents or appeals). **3. Application Types for Level 1 Advisers** **Examples of Handled Applications:** 1. **Visitor Visas** - Standard Visitor Visa. - Permitted Paid Engagement Visa. 2. **Study Visas** - Student Visa (previously Tier 4). - Child Student Visa. 3. **Work Visas** - Skilled Worker Visa. - Seasonal Worker Visa. 4. **Family Visas** - Partner/spouse visa. - Dependent child or parent visa under Appendix FM. 5. **Settlement** - Applications for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under various categories. 6. **British Citizenship** - Applications for naturalization (e.g., based on residency or marriage). - Registration for minors. **Key Considerations:** - **Eligibility Checks**: - Assess client eligibility using immigration rules. - Ensure clients meet financial, English language, and residency requirements. - **Document Submission**: - Verify the authenticity of supporting documents. - Explain the importance of compliance with Home Office guidelines. **4. Compliance and Ethical Obligations** **Case Management** - Follow clear procedures for opening, managing, and closing cases: - Provide clients with a **document checklist**. - Ensure applications are submitted accurately and on time. **Fee Transparency** - Clearly communicate fees and avoid unexpected charges. **Avoiding Misconduct** - Do not provide false or misleading information. - Refrain from advising outside the permitted scope. **5. Exam Preparation Tips** 1. **Study the OISC Code of Standards**: - Understand how ethical principles apply to real-world cases. 2. **Practice Application Scenarios**: - Work through mock case studies for family and work visas. 3. **Keep Updated**: - Regularly review immigration law changes and Home Office policy updates. 4. **Mock Exams**: - Simulate exam conditions with sample OISC Level 1 questions to test your knowledge. For a detailed reference, review the **OISC Code of Standards 2024** directly [here](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6628d99adb4b9f0448a7e572/OISC_Code_of_Standards_2024.pdf)​ [GOV.UK](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66a8b9eda3c2a28abb50d95d/Guidance_Notes___Code_of_Standards_2024.pdf) ​ [GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/published-code-of-standards-guidance-notes). This will ensure comprehensive preparation for the Level 1 exam and an understanding of the scope of permitted applications. **Smart Objective are:** - Where exactly do you want to achieve? - Where? - How? - When? - With Whom? - What are the condition and limitation? - Why exactly do you want to reach this objection and their alternative aweay to anchieve the same objective?