Ethical recruitment code

Studying abroad is a major decision for a student and their family. This code sets out how JOE Studies works, and what we expect of every recruitment partner in the JOE Network. Partners sign it before they begin recruiting.

1. Student interests first

We begin with what makes sense for the student: their goals, their results and what their family can sustain. We recommend the option that fits, even when it is not the one that benefits us most.

2. No false promises

Admission decisions belong to institutions. Visa and immigration decisions belong to governments. We never promise, imply or sell admission, visas, work permits, jobs or any immigration outcome, and we warn students about anyone who does.

3. Recognised institutions only

We work only with institutions that are officially recognised to award their qualifications. We check this before we recommend a programme, and we help families check it for themselves.

4. Clear terms before commitment

Before a student commits to anything, we explain in writing what we will do, what it costs, and what happens if plans change. Families never pay for a service they have not agreed to.

5. Honest documents only

Every document and statement in an application must be genuine and accurate. We never alter, invent or advise a student to leave out information. Misrepresentation can lead to refusal and long-term bans, and it harms the student most of all. We will stop working on any application where we find it.

6. Transparency about relationships

We work with institutions and partners, and some of them pay us. We tell students and families which institutions we work with and how we are paid when they ask, and we do not let those relationships decide our advice.

7. Data security

We collect only the personal data we need, keep it secure, and use it only for the purpose it was given. We do not collect identity or academic documents through our website. See our privacy policy.

8. Student welfare

Our responsibility does not end when an application is submitted. We prepare students for arrival, check in once they have started, and help them find support if something goes wrong.

9. Independent professional advice

We do not give immigration or legal advice. Where a student needs it, we refer them to independent, licensed professionals.

10. What we expect of partners

Every partner in the JOE Network agrees to:

• follow this code in full, in every market;
• represent JOE Studies and partner institutions accurately;
• charge students only what has been agreed in writing;
• keep student data secure and never share it without consent;
• tell JOE Studies straight away about any complaint or concern;
• accept that JOE Studies may audit their work and end the partnership if this code is broken.

Raising a concern

If you think JOE Studies or one of our partners has not met this code, email info@joestudies.com. We take every concern seriously and respond in writing.