1. Introduction
This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal data when you interact with us, whether through our website (www.smartedconsultants.co.uk), direct communications, or recruitment activities.
2. What Information We Collect
We collect and process the following types of personal data:
2.1 Students
• Full name, date of birth, nationality, and contact details (email, phone, address).
• Academic history, English language proficiency, and qualifications.
• Passport details, visa information, and sponsorship records.
• Any additional information required for university applications.
2.2 Marketing Officers & Subcontractors
• Full name, contact details, and employment history.
• Proof of eligibility to work and compliance-related documents.
• Financial details for payment processing.
2.3 Website Visitors
• IP addresses, browser types, and pages visited.
• Cookie data for analytical and service improvement purposes.
3. Legal Basis for Processing Data
We process personal data under the following lawful bases:
• Consent – When you provide explicit consent for us to process your data.
• Contractual Obligation – When processing is necessary to fulfill an agreement, such as submitting student applications.
• Legal Obligation – To comply with UKVI regulations and tax laws.
• Legitimate Interests – For business operations, fraud prevention, and improving services.
4. How We Use Your Information
We use your personal data to:
• Process university applications and provide guidance.
• Communicate with students, marketing officers, and subcontractors.
• Ensure compliance with immigration laws and educational institution policies.
• Manage business operations, including subcontractor relationships.
• Improve user experience through analytics and website enhancements.
5. How Long We Retain Your Data
We retain personal data for the following durations in line with legal requirements:
• Student Records: 6 years from the last date of activity (UKVI compliance).
• Marketing Officers & Subcontractors: 6 years post-contract termination (HMRC guidelines).
• Financial Records: 6 years (UK tax law compliance).
• Website Analytics Data: 12 months, after which it is anonymized.
• Email Communications: 2 years unless legally required for longer retention.
6. How We Share Your Information
We may share your information with:
• Universities, Colleges, and Educational Institutions – To process applications.
• Regulatory Bodies (e.g., UKVI, HMRC) – To comply with UK immigration and financial regulations.
• Subcontractors and Marketing Officers – For student recruitment services.
• Third-Party Service Providers – For IT support, payment processing, and data storage.
• Legal Authorities – When required for fraud prevention or law enforcement investigations.
We do not sell or rent personal data to third parties.
7. Data Security Measures
We implement robust security measures, including:
• Encrypted databases and secure servers.
• Access controls for authorized personnel only.
• Regular security audits and employee training on data protection.
8. Your Rights Under UK GDPR
Under UK data protection laws, you have the right to:
• Access your personal data.
• Rectify incorrect or incomplete information.
• Request erasure of your data under certain conditions.
• Restrict processing where applicable.
• Object to processing based on legitimate interests.
• Request data portability to transfer information elsewhere.
To exercise these rights, contact us on info@smartedconsultants.co.uk
9. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies to:
• Enhance website functionality.
• Analyse traffic via Google Analytics.
• Store user preferences.
Manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings. See our Cookie Policy for details.
10. Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to third-party sites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices, and we recommend reviewing their policies before sharing personal data.
11. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Changes will be posted on this page, and significant updates will be communicated where necessary.
12. Contact Information
For inquiries about this Privacy Policy or data protection practices, contact us:
SmartEd Consultants
Email: info@smartedconsultants.co.uk
Phone: 0208 014 2349
Address: 53 High street, Thornton Heath, London, CR7 8RW
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This Privacy Policy complies with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. By using our services, you acknowledge and accept the terms outlined herein.
Date updated: 31/08/20204
Next Update: 31/08/2025
