Yes, thankfully.
But it's still down to us to figure out how the database works.
I have been living in the UK since July 2008 with Work permit which is going to expire in December. I would like to switch my immigration category to Tier-1 General.
I have a Master of Science (Information Technology) degree from Rochester Institute of Technology, New York (That's what it says on my diploma). This qualification does not give any points in the UK HO Points Based Calculator yet none of the Master of Science degrees. However, I know that UK equivalent Master's degree should qualify for the 35 points. Therefore, I requested a letter of comparability from NARIC and they confirmed my MSc degree as "Is considered comparable to British taught Master's degree standard". I know that if the Immigration Officer ignores the letter and looks at the PBC (because my qualification IS in the database with 0 points), they will refuse my application.
Other unknown is the bands described in the evaluation criteria and methodology document. ( newcomer link: http://www.naric.org.uk/documents/code%20of%20practice/2%20-%20Evaluation%20Criteria%20and%20Methodology.pdf
[nonactive] )
My naric letter assessment corresponds to band (13 see below). Maybe the PBC is awarding points for band 14+. Makes sense?
Band 13: Second cycle higher education programmes that combine classroom-based study and a research element
Comparable to British taught Master’s degree standard
Any thoughts or success stories?
Thanks,
Ali