The university was stripped of its licence last year. File picture: PA Wire

The London Metropolitan University is to apply for a new licence to admit foreign students.

The institution, which has campuses in the City and in Holloway, was stripped of its highly trusted sponsor status by the UK Border Agency last autumn.

Officials revoked London Met’s licence after an audit of its foreign students revealed a quarter of those checked did not have permission to stay in the country.

At the time, the London Met said the decision would affect up to 2,600 students and leave it facing a £30million annual loss.

A spokesman said it was continuing with its High Court legal battle with the UK Border Agency to contest the original decision. Dates have been set for proceedings on October 17 and 18.

“The university is now preparing to submit its application for a Tier 4 licence to the UK Border Agency tomorrow (March 1),” he said.

“Although (the High Court case) might seem a long way away, the university and its lawyers Penningtons are already working hard on the case.”