Overview
A Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) allows you to come to the UK to study a full-time course. You must have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor and have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course.
Eligibility Criteria
- Have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor.
- Have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your sponsor.
- Have enough money to pay for your course and support yourself ('financial requirement').
- Can speak, read, write and understand English to a certain level.
- Have consent from your parents if you’re 16 or 17.
Required Documents
- A current valid passport.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number.
- Proof you have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course.
- A valid ATAS certificate if your course and nationality require it.
- Proof of parental or other legal guardian consent if you’re under 18.
- Your tuberculosis (TB) test results if you’re from a country where you have to take the test.
Application Process
- Get a CAS: Apply to a UK university and receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary evidence, including financial proof and English language results.
- Online Application: Apply online on the GOV.UK website.
- Pay Fees: Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Biometrics: Attend an appointment at a visa application centre.
- Decision: Receive your visa decision (usually within 3 weeks).
Processing Time & Fees
Processing Time: Usually 3 weeks if you’re outside the UK, or 8 weeks if you’re inside the UK.
Fees: £490 if you apply from outside the UK. You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.