The Points Based System has replaced over 80 previous routes to work and study in the UK with just five Tiers:
Tier 1 – Highly Skilled
Tier 2 - Skilled workers sponsored by employers - (Employer requires a Sponsorship Licence)
Tier 3 – Low skilled temporary workers (On Hold)
Tier 4 – Students - (Establishment requires a Sponsorship Licence)
Tier 5 – Temporary workers – (Employer requires a Sponsorship Licence)