UK study visa requirements 2025 guide

The UK is home to some of the world’s top universities, offering cutting-edge research, diverse academic programs, and a multicultural student community.

If you plan to study in the UK, your first step is obtaining the right UK student visa based on your age, course type, and study duration.

Let’s look at the requirements for a UK study visa in detail.

Types of UK Student Visa

There are 3 types of UK student visas available for international students.

Documents Required for a UK Student Visa

The documents required for a UK study visa are:

1. Reference number and supporting documents for the CAS application

2. A valid passport or other travel documentation

3. Proof of financial ability to cover living expenses while studying there

4. Academic technology approval scheme clearance certificate (if required)

5. Tuberculosis screening (if required)

6. Passport-sized colour photograph

7. Assessment documentation

There may be other documents required for the UK student visa if you are:

1. Not holding the citizenship of the country from which you are applying.

2. Responsible for any dependents

3. Under 18 years of age

All the supporting documents must be translated into English. Each translated document must have the translator's name and signature, the date it was translated, and confirmation that it is an accurate translation of the original document.

Cost of a UK Student Visa

To study in the UK, you'll need a Student visa-

• Applying from outside UK: £363

• Extending or renewing from within UK: £490

English Proficiency Requirement for UK Student Visa

English is the primary language of instruction, so proving language proficiency is essential.

• Accepted test: IELTS for UKVI

• Skills tested: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking

• A UKVI officer may interview to check communication ability. If you fail to do so, you will not be allowed to enter the UK even if you scored well on your English proficiency test.

Band Score Requirement for UK Student Visa

For a UK study visa, you must achieve a minimum overall IELTS band score of 6 and 5.5 in each skill. However, you must aim to achieve a higher band score to ease the visa and admission application process.

How to Apply for a Student Visa for the UK?

To apply for a UK student visa, you must apply online using the British Government’s official website.

You can apply for the visa up to three months before your travel date to the UK. Your application date is the date you pay your application fee.

To apply for a Tier 4 visa, you will generally require:

1. A current passport or other valid travel documentation.

2. Provide evidence of funds to cover your living expenses for the duration of your course.

3. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number and documents used to obtain CAS.

4. Passport-size colour photograph.

5. Tuberculosis screening (if required).

6. Assessment documentation.

7. Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance certificate (if required).

The additional documents required can be:

1. Not a citizen of the country you are applying from.

2. Under 18 years of age.

3. Have family (dependents)

If the supporting documents are not in English, you will have to translate them. All the translated documents must be dated and include the translator’s name and signature. They should also have a confirmation that they are an accurate translation of the original document.

Biometric Residence Permit for UK Student Visa

Your application also includes getting a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). This involves scheduling an appointment to provide your fingerprints, thumb scans, and a digital photograph at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point, not directly with UKVI.

UK Student Visa Validity

The validity of your UK student visa depends on your course level.

• Degree-level courses (undergraduate and postgraduate studies): Up to 5 years (age 18+)

• Below degree level (including diplomas and certificates): Up to 2 years

Work Rights on a UK Student Visa

Working part-time while studying in the UK can be an excellent way to manage living expenses and gain valuable work experience in your field. If you hold a Tier 4 (General) or Tier 4 (Child) visa, you are allowed to work during your studies and holidays if you meet the following conditions:

1. You are enrolled in a publicly funded higher education institution.

2. You are participating in a short-term study abroad program with an overseas higher education institution.

3. You are over 16 years old.

4. You are studying a course at NQF level 6 (degree level) or above.

Restrictions:

• Limited weekly hours during term time

• Certain job types are prohibited

• “No Work” or “Work Prohibited” on your visa means work is illegal

Why Take IELTS for UKVI?

• Globally accepted by all UK universities

• Accurate assessment of all four English skills

• Flexible formats – IELTS on Computer & IELTS on Paper

• Fast results – as early as 2 days for IELTS on Computer

Next Step: Book Your IELTS Test for UKVI and secure your UK study dream with IDP’s official prep resources.

Key Takeaways

• Apply up to 3 months before the course start

• IELTS for UKVI is mandatory for most students

• Minimum overall Band 6.0 (5.5 each skill)

• Check visa type and eligibility before applying