Studying in the United Kingdom is a dream for many international students seeking world-class education and cultural experiences. To turn this dream into reality, you need to understand the intricacies of the UK student visa process.
Types of Student Visas:
There are three primary categories of student visas in the UK:
- Student Route Visa (formerly Tier 4 General Student Visa):
Applicable for university or college courses lasting over 6 months.
Suitable for English language courses extending beyond 11 months.
- Child Student Visa (also Tier 4):
Specifically designed for individuals under 18 who meet the criteria for the Student Route Visa.
- Short-Term Study Visa:
Intended for individuals enrolling in English language courses lasting less than 12 months.
If you plan to pursue a university or college course lasting over 6 months or an English language course exceeding 11 months, the appropriate choice is the Student Route Visa. Short-Term Study Visas are tailored for shorter English language courses, lasting less than a year.
You should note that the Student Route Visa, formerly known as the Tier 4 General Student Visa, comes with a higher cost compared to the Short-Term Study Visa. Therefore, you should carefully assess your situation and choose the visa type that aligns with your study duration. Further details on student visa costs can be found below.
Student Visas In The Uk: How It Works
Age Requirement
To apply for a Student visa in the UK, you must be 16 or above, and you must meet the following criteria:
- Receive an offer for a course from a licensed student sponsor.
- Possess sufficient funds to cover living expenses and course fees, with the exact amount contingent on individual circumstances.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English, encompassing speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension.
- Obtain parental consent if 16 or 17, with supporting evidence required during the application process.
For those aged 16 or 17 attending an independent school in the UK, eligibility for a Child Student visa exists as an alternative to the now-replaced Tier 4 (General) student visa.
Things you need to apply for a visa
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS):
Before applying for a Tier 4 visa, you must obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed Tier 4 sponsor, usually from a recognized institution. After securing admission to a program, the school gives you a unique reference number that confirms your eligibility and acceptance into a specific course. This Unique number is called the CAS.
Before your institution can issue you a CAS, you need to satisfy the financial requirements for the program. Usually, this is a personal or sponsor’s account balance enough to cover at least a year’s tuition and living costs.
Financial Requirements
Not only are financial requirements needed for CAS issuance, but you also need it to secure a student visa. You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in the UK. The amount varies depending on your institution’s location and the nature of your course. In most cases, the amount needed to secure your CAS is enough to get you a student visa.
English Language Proficiency:
Most UK universities and colleges require international students to prove their proficiency in English. Some of the accepted English language tests include the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), TOELF, WAEC, Duolingo and others approved by the UK Visas and Immigration.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test:
This is another test required for students from certain countries planning to secure the undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test as part of the visa application process. If you are planning on staying in the UK beyond 6 months, this test is mandatory and it costs This test is mandatory for those planning to stay in the UK for more than six months.
The Tuberculosis test cost 150 USD for applicants 11years and older and 60USD for applicants less than 11. However, the TB fee is included in your Visa Application fee.
Biometric Information:
As part of the application process, you will be required to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph. This helps in the secure and accurate processing of visa applications. The biometric fee is 19
Healthcare Surcharge:
The healthcare surcharge is part of the application process and it grants you access to the National Health Servce (NHS) during your period of study. The NHS cost £470 for every stay that lasts 6–12 months and £235 for any additional period that is less than 6 months. So, for a program of 2 years, you have to pay the yearly cost for each year during the visa processing.
Visa Application Process:
Applying for the UK visa is predominantly online. Alongside the online application form, you’ll need to submit supporting documents, including your CAS, proof of funds or financial capacity, and other relevant materials.
Notable mentions
1. Work Permissions:
The UK Tier 4 (General) student visa holders are typically allowed to work part-time during term time and full-time during official vacation periods. However, there are limitations, and students must adhere to the prescribed regulations. Hence, you should understand the terms of the permissions and abide as such if you do not want to jeopardize your chances of getting a Post-Graduate Work Visa.
2. Post-Graduation Work Opportunities:
One significant advantage for international students in the UK is the post-study work opportunities. As a graduate, you may stay in the UK for a specific period after completing your studies to work or seek employment. Policies regarding post-graduation work are subject to change, so you should stay informed.
3. Visa Renewal:
If your program/course extends beyond the validity of your initial visa, you will need to apply for a visa extension. To do this, you need to obtain a new CAS and ensuring that you meet the requirements for an extension.
Note: You should note that immigration policies can change, and staying updated on the latest regulations cannot be too important. Always refer to the official UK government website or consult with the UK Visas and Immigration service for the most current information before initiating the visa application process.