The student visa allows non-UK residents to undertake a course of study at a British college or university. The student visa replaced the previous Tier 4 visa as the immigration route for international students aged 16 or over to study in the UK, provided they are sponsored by an education provider that holds a valid student sponsor licence.
In this guide for students visa applicants, we explain what this category allows, how to apply and we share tips on how to give your application the best chance of success.
Section A: What is a Student Visa?
The UK student visa is for international students aged 16 or over who wish to study full-time, or part-time in some limited circumstances, in the UK, and are sponsored by a licensed education provider.
Anyone who is not a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland and wishes to study in the UK generally needs a student visa. This includes individuals from countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who plan to enrol in a full-time course at a UK educational institution.
To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate that they have been accepted onto a course, meet English language requirements, and have sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees and living expenses.
Studying in the UK offers international students numerous benefits, including access to world-renowned universities, a diverse and multicultural environment, and opportunities to develop a global network. The education system in the UK is highly respected, and a UK degree is recognised and valued worldwide.
After completing their studies, students may be eligible to apply for the Graduate Route, which enables them to stay in the UK for an additional two years to work or look for work, as a pathway to further opportunities within the UK.
A UK student visa allows international students to study at accredited institutions in the United Kingdom. It grants permission to live in the UK for the duration of the course, including undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral levels. The visa also permits students to work part-time during term time, typically up to 20 hours per week, and full-time during holidays, helping them gain work experience and supplement their income.
The student visa also allows students to bring certain family members (dependants) with them, but only if they are studying at a postgraduate level or if their course is longer than 9 months.
Section B: Student Visa Eligibility Requirements
The rules and requirements for the Student Visa UK route are set out in Appendix Student of the UK Immigration Rules. To apply under this route, an applicant must be aged 16 or over, be a genuine student, and meet a specific set of requirements to accrue a total of 70 points. The requisite number of points can be accrued if:
a. They have been offered a place to study on a course by a licensed student sponsor (50 points)
b. They have enough money to pay for their course and to support themselves (10 points)
c. They speak English to the required standard (10 points)
d. The offer of a place on a course
e. The visa applicant must have an unconditional offer of a place on a suitable course with a licensed student sponsor leading to an approved qualification. To prove this, the education provider will need to issue the applicant with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once they have offered a place on the relevant course.
1. Sponsorship by a licensed education provider
The visa applicant must have an unconditional offer of a place on a suitable course with a licensed student ‘sponsor’ leading to an approved qualification.
The education provider is known as a sponsor. UK academies and local authority-funded schools, including those with sixth forms, cannot hold a student sponsor licence or sponsor students under the new Student Visa UK route. For migrants aged 16 or 17 wanting to study at an independent school in the UK, they may be eligible for a Child Student Visa instead.
To prove sponsorship, the education provider will need to issue the applicant with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once they have offered a place on the relevant course.
The CAS is a virtual database record containing the official offer of a place on a course of study, as well as the mandatory information to determine whether or not an applicant meets the requirements of the route they are applying under. It also contains a unique reference number that the applicant will need to insert on their visa application form.
Under the Student Visa UK route, an applicant can undertake a number of different courses, including any of the following:
a. A full-time course leading to a qualification that is below degree level (RQF level 3, 4 or 5) with at least 15 hours a week of organised daytime study
b. A full-time course leading to a qualification that is degree level or above (RQF level 6, 7 or 8)
c. A full-time course at degree level or above that is equivalent to a UK higher education course and is being delivered as part of a longer course overseas
d. A part-time course leading to a qualification that is above degree level (RQF level 7 or above)
e. An English language course at level B2 or above in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
f. A recognised foundation programme for postgraduate doctors or dentists
Essentially, this route is for those who want to study on a course of further or higher education, a pre-sessional English course or a recognised foundation programme. This route can also be used where the applicant is taking up a full-time elected position as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer or applying to extend their stay on the Doctorate Extension Scheme.
2. Student visa maintenance requirement
The level of funds needed under the maintenance requirement will vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances and what course they are applying for. This requirement is made up of two parts: the course fees and monthly living costs.
Applicants applying for a new course from overseas and those who have been in the UK for less than a year must demonstrate that they have enough money to pay the course fees for either one academic year, or for the entire course if it is less than a year long. The amount that an applicant will need to pay will be stated on their CAS.
The applicant must also show a set amount of money for each month of their course, for up to 9 months, to prove they are able to support themselves. The level of money needed here will depend on where they will be studying. For courses in London, the sum required for living costs is £1,334 per month, and for courses outside London, the sum will be £1,023 per month.
If the applicant is applying for the Doctorate Extension Scheme, they will need to show they have a total of £2,530 for courses in London, or £2,030 for courses outside London. If the applicant is boarding at a residential independent school, they will need to show sufficient funds to pay both their course fees and boarding fees.
In each case, the applicant must show they have held the required level of funds for at least 28 consecutive days. The 28 day period must end no more than 31 days before the application date. If the applicant has a student loan or financial sponsorship, they will need to provide evidence of this from their loan or sponsorship company.
In some circumstances, however, the applicant will not be required to show they have the necessary funds to cover their monthly living costs. This is where they have been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months, or they are applying as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer or they are applying as a postgraduate doctor or dentist on a recognised foundation programme
An applicant may also not need to provide financial evidence if they hold a British National (Overseas) passport, or a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR or Taiwan, or they are a national from an exempt country – although they should still make sure they have enough funds.
3. English language requirement
An applicant must prove their knowledge of English when they apply. This means that they must be able to speak, read, write and understand English to a certain level on the CEFR scale. This usually means passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider.
If applying to study a course below degree level, the applicant must have the equivalent of level B1 of the CEFR for English language. For those studying at degree level or above, the applicant must have the equivalent of level B2, although their Higher Education Provider (HEP) can assess their level of English. This means that the applicant may be asked to undertake a different test, although that must still be equivalent to a CEFR level B2.
An applicant will not be required to prove their knowledge of English if they are from, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, a majority English-speaking country.
The English language requirement is also not usually applicable if any one of the following applies: the applicant is a national of a country where English is the primary language, such as the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand; the applicant is applying to come to the UK for a study abroad programme as part of a university degree course in the USA; or the applicant has proved their level of English in a previous visa application.
Section C: How to Apply for a UK Student Visa
To apply for a Student Visa UK, the applicant will need to submit an online application using their unique CAS reference number, and pay the relevant fee. An applicant must apply for their visa within 6 months of receiving their CAS. The cost of applying for a visa from outside the UK is £490. It will cost £490 to extend or switch to a Student Visa from inside the UK. An applicant will also have to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of their application.
When an applicant can apply depends on whether they are applying from inside or outside the UK. From outside the UK, the earliest a person can apply for a visa is 6 months before they start their course. The earliest someone can apply from inside the UK is 3 months before their course starts. They must apply before their current visa or permission to be in the UK expires, and their new course must begin within 28 days of their current visa expiring.
When applying from outside the UK, the applicant will need to prove their identity. How they do this will depend on where they are from and what type of passport they hold. They will either need to provide a photograph and their fingerprints at an overseas visa application centre, or use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan their identity document. The applicant will be instructed on what to do when they apply.
The standard processing time for a UK student visa is typically 3 weeks, however, this can vary depending on several factors, including where you are applying from, when you apply and the complexity and quality of your application.
If the application for a Student Visa UK is successful, the applicant will be issued a digital immigration status which they can view and prove online.
Section D: Student Visa Supporting Documents
When applying for a Student Visa UK, in addition to the CAS number from their course provider, the applicant must provide a current passport or other valid travel documentation. They will also need to provide, where relevant, documentary evidence of the following:
a. Proof they have enough money to pay for their course and support themselves
b. Proof of parental or other legal guardian consent if they are under 18, together with proof of their relationship to their parents or guardians, eg, their birth certificate
c. Written consent for the application from their financial sponsor if they have received sponsorship for a completed course of studies in the last 12 months
d. An ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance certificate, if their course of study requires it under Appendix ATAS of the Immigration Rules
e. A valid tuberculosis test certificate, if they have been residing within a country listed in Appendix T of the Immigration Rules for the 6 months preceding the application.
The applicant may also need to provide additional documents depending on their circumstances.
Section E: Extending a Student Visa UK
How long a person can stay in the UK under a Student Visa will depend on the length of their course and what study they have already completed. If they are 18 or over and their course is at degree level, a visa holder will be able to stay in the UK for up to 5 years. If it is below degree level, they can usually stay in the UK for up to 2 years.
A person may also be able to extend their visa if they are eligible, for example, to continue their studies in the UK or switch to a Student Visa from another visa if they are already in the UK.
If an applicant already has permission to be in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme, they will not need to apply for a new visa to undertake a course of studies, or to work in the UK after their course of studies has come to an end.
Section F: Summary
A UK student visa allows international students to pursue their education at recognised institutions in the United Kingdom. The application process requires careful attention to detail, particularly in meeting eligibility requirements, such as providing proof of sufficient funds, English language proficiency, and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the institution. Any errors or omissions in the application could result in delays or visa refusal.
Applicants should also consider the financial implications of studying in the UK, including tuition fees, living costs, and the healthcare surcharge. International students also have to adhere to visa conditions, including work restrictions and attendance requirements, as non-compliance may lead to visa cancellation or difficulties in extending the visa.
Section G: Student Visa FAQs
What is a UK student visa?
The UK student visa allows international students to study at accredited institutions in the United Kingdom.
Who needs a UK student visa?
Any individual from outside the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland who wishes to study in the UK will generally need a student visa. This includes students from countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
How long does it take to get a UK student visa?
Processing times can vary, but it typically takes around three weeks after submitting your application. It’s advisable to apply as early as possible to avoid any delays.
Can I work while on a UK student visa?
In general, students on a UK student visa are allowed to work part-time during term time (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during holidays.
What happens if my visa application is refused?
If your visa application is refused, you may be able to request an administrative review or reapply. It’s important to carefully review the reasons for refusal and address them in any subsequent application.
Can I extend my UK student visa?
Yes, you can apply to extend your student visa if you wish to continue your studies in the UK, provided you meet the eligibility requirements and your institution supports the extension.
What should I do if my circumstances change during my studies?
If your circumstances change, such as switching courses or institutions, you must inform the UK Home Office and may need to apply for a new visa or update your current one. Failure to do so could impact your legal status in the UK.
Am I eligible to stay in the UK after completing my studies?
You may be eligible to stay in the UK under the Graduate Route, which allows you to work or look for work for up to two years (or in some cases three years) after completing your course.
Section H: Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| UK Student Visa | A visa that allows international students to study at accredited institutions in the United Kingdom. |
| Tier 4 (General) Visa | The main category of student visa for individuals aged 16 and above studying a full-time course in the UK. |
| Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) | An electronic document issued by a licensed UK institution, confirming a student’s acceptance onto a course. |
| Licensed Sponsor | A UK educational institution that is authorised by the UK government to sponsor international students. |
| Short-term Study Visa | A visa for students taking short courses in the UK, typically lasting up to six months. |
| Graduate Route | A post-study visa that allows students to stay in the UK for up to two years to work or look for work. |
| Right to Work | Legal permission that allows international students to work part-time during their studies in the UK. |
| Administrative Review | A process where an applicant can challenge a visa refusal decision by the UK Home Office. |
| Visa Extension | The process of applying to prolong the validity of a current visa, allowing continued study in the UK. |
| Healthcare Surcharge | A mandatory payment required for international students to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). |
| Dependants | Family members (usually spouse/partner and children) who can accompany a student to the UK under certain conditions. |
| Immigration Status | The legal condition of a person in the UK as determined by their visa type and compliance with visa rules. |
Section I: Additional Resources
UK Government Student Visa Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/student-visa
The official UK government page providing detailed information on applying for a student visa, including eligibility, application process, and fees.
UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA)
https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/
A leading resource for international students in the UK, offering advice on visas, immigration, and living in the UK.
Home Office – Right to Work Checks
https://www.gov.uk/check-job-applicant-right-to-work
Official guidance on how employers check the right to work status of international students and other workers in the UK.
British Council – Study UK
https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/
A resource providing insights into studying in the UK, including visa information, study options, and scholarships.
UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) – Visa Processing Times
https://www.gov.uk/visa-processing-times
A tool to check the current processing times for UK visas, helping students plan their application timeline.
National Health Service (NHS) – Healthcare Surcharge
https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application
Information on the healthcare surcharge international students must pay as part of their visa application for access to NHS services.
Author
Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.
She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.
Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals
