Student Visa UK

The UK offers a prestigious educational experience with renowned universities and rich cultural diversity. The UK Student Visa is available to EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA nationals who meet the 70-point requirement of the Points-Based System.

Points-Based System Requirements

• Acceptance into an Approved Institution: Confirmed by a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
• Financial Capability: Proof of funds to cover course fees and living expenses (£1,265/month for London, £1,015/month outside London). Additional funds are required for dependents.
• English Proficiency: B2 level for degree-level courses, B1 level for below degree-level courses.

Course Requirements

• Full-time courses at RQF level 3, 4, or 5 (below degree-level).
• Full-time degree-level courses (RQF level 6, 7, or 8).
• Part-time courses above RQF level 7.
• Approved postgraduate programs for doctors or dentists.
• English language courses at level B2 or above.

Application Process

• Timing: Start the application process up to six months before the course begins.
• Procedure: Apply online via the UK Government website and submit biometrics at a Visa Application Center.
• Confirmation of Acceptance: Obtain a CAS reference number from the educational institution.

Switching to a UK Study Visa

• Switching is possible if the current visa is not a visit visa, short-term student visa, Parent of a Child Student visa, seasonal worker visa, domestic worker in a private household visa, or leave outside the immigration rules.
• Apply up to three months before the course starts, with a valid existing visa and acceptance into an approved institution.

Processing Time

• Outside the UK: Approximately three weeks.
• Within the UK: Approximately eight weeks for switching to a Student Visa.

Fees and Financial Requirements

• Application Fees: £348 from outside the UK, £475 for extensions or switching within the UK.
• Living Expenses: At least £1,265/month in London, £1,015/month outside London (up to 9 months).

Required Documents

• Valid passport
• CAS
• Proof of financial resources
• ATAS certificate (if applicable)
• Criminal record certificate
• Proof of English proficiency
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)

Visa Validity and Extensions

• Valid for the course duration, up to five years for degree-level courses, and two years for below degree-level courses.
• Extensions are possible for higher-level courses, applying no earlier than three months before new classes start.

Post-Study Stay

• Graduates can apply for the Graduate Visa to stay up to two years (three years for PhD graduates) after completing their studies.

Work Rights

• Students can work under certain conditions, with restrictions on professional sports coaching and self-employment.

Dependents

• Eligible dependents include spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, and children under 18.
• Financial proof required: £845/month for London, £680/month outside London (up to 9 months).

This information outlines the key aspects of the UK Student Visa, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the application process, eligibility, and benefits for prospective international students.

Disclaimer

The information above is not legal advice, and any reference to legal solutions or information regarding UK Immigration is sourced from Gov.uk (the official UK immigration website). ImmigrationHUB.co.uk does not provide legal advice or counsel. Any legal matters are dealt with directly by our partnered firms, which are registered by the governing societies in their area of operations.