The UK is home to some of the most reputed universities and academic institutions in the world. Studying in the UK gives access to several academic courses, opportunities for research and innovation, and a diverse student community.
The first step towards studying in the UK is obtaining a student visa. The visa you’ll need depends on your age and the type of course you want to pursue.
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.
Student visa type | Who it’s for | What is the perfect time to apply? | What is the arrival date in the UK? |
|---|---|---|---|
Student route (General) visa | Students over the age of 16 who are accepted to attend a course at a UK-accredited educational institution. | 3 months prior to the beginning of your course. | If your course lasts six months or less, you may arrive up to one week in advance. If your course is longer than six months, you may arrive up to one month in advance. |
Student route (Child) visa | Students between the ages of 4 and 17 who are accepted to attend a course at a UK-accredited educational institution with a legitimate student route sponsor, such as an independent fee-paying school. | 3 months prior to the beginning of your course. | If your course lasts six months or less, you may arrive up to one week in advance. If your course is longer than six months, you may arrive up to one month in advance. |
Short-term study visa | Students who were offered a spot on a short-term course, such as a training program or an English language course. | 3 months before your departure to the UK. | It depends on your travel dates. |
Documents Required for a UK Student Visa
The documents required for a UK study visa are:
Reference number and supporting documents for the CAS application
A valid passport or other travel documentation
Proof of financial ability to cover living expenses while studying there
Academic technology approval scheme clearance certificate (if required)
Tuberculosis screening (if required)
Passport-sized colour photograph
Assessment documentation
There may be other documents required for the UK student visa if you are:
Not holding the citizenship of the country from which you are applying.
Responsible for any dependents
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. The application fee for UK study visa is £363 if you're applying from outside the UK. If you're already there and want to extend your stay, renewing the visa costs the same, £490.
English Proficiency Requirement for UK Student Visa
Since English is the medium of communication in the UK, demonstrating English language proficiency is a requirement for your UK study visa application. This can be achieved through a recognised English language test like IELTS.
IELTS assesses your Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking English skills. As part of the visa application process, a UKVI officer will conduct your interview, during which you will have to have a simple conversation without the help of an interpreter. 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.
Help me with the IELTS Registration
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 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:
A current passport or other valid travel documentation.
Provide evidence of funds to cover your living expenses for the duration of your course.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number and documents used to obtain CAS.
Passport-size colour photograph.
Tuberculosis screening (if required).
Assessment documentation.
Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance certificate (if required).
The additional documents required can be:
Not a citizen of the country you are applying from.
Under 18 years of age.
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. For degree programs (undergraduate and postgraduate studies), students 18 and over can usually stay for up to 5 years. For courses below degree level (including diplomas and certificates), the visa duration is up to 2 years.
Work in the UK on a 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:
You are enrolled in a publicly funded higher education institution.
You are participating in a short-term study abroad program with an overseas higher education institution.
You are over 16 years old.
You are studying a course at NQF level 6 (degree level) or above.
However, there may be restrictions on the type of work you can do and the number of hours you can work. It's essential to note that you must not work if your passport or identity card states 'No Work' or 'Work Prohibited.' Doing so would breach your immigration conditions and is illegal in the UK.
Summary
Studying in the UK brings you the opportunity to access world-class education and multicultural student life. By meeting the eligibility criteria, including securing a place at an approved institution, demonstrating financial stability, and possessing a strong grasp of English, you'll be well on your way to achieving your academic goals in the UK.
To demonstrate your English proficiency, consider taking the IELTS exam – the most popular language test for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). With its globally recognised format and acceptance by universities across the UK, IELTS can help you unlock your UK study abroad dream.