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UK Student Visa Information | Study in the UK

UK Student Visa Information

Everything you need to know about studying in the United Kingdom. Find the right student visa for your educational journey.

UK Student Visa Types

Choose the right visa category based on your study program and duration

Student Visa (General)

For students aged 16+ studying at a UK educational institution

Course Level

Degree-level study or above at licensed institution

Duration

Depends on course length + extra time after studies

Work Rights

Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time in vacations

Child Student Visa

For children aged 4-17 to study at independent UK schools

Eligibility

Place at an independent school with visa sponsorship

Parental Consent

Required for students under 18

Accommodation

Must have suitable living arrangements

Short-Term Study Visa

For short courses, research periods or English language studies

Duration

Up to 6 months (11 months for English language courses)

Work Rights

No work permitted (paid or unpaid)

Extension

Cannot extend or switch to other visa from this visa

General Requirements

Common requirements for UK student visas

Course Requirements

Proof of your study program in the UK

Unconditional offer from licensed student sponsor

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

Proof of previous qualifications (if required)

Financial Requirements

Proof you can support yourself during studies

£1,334 per month (for courses in London)

£1,023 per month (for courses outside London)

Bank statements showing funds for 28 consecutive days

Other Requirements

Additional documentation needed

English language proficiency (CEFR B2 for degree level)

Valid passport or travel document

TB test results if from listed country

Application Process

Step-by-step guide to applying for a UK student visa

1

Receive Offer

Get unconditional offer from licensed UK institution

2

Get CAS

Receive Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

3

Prepare Documents

Gather financial evidence, qualifications, English test results

4

Apply Online

Complete application form and pay fees/IHS surcharge

5

Biometrics

Attend visa application center for biometrics

6

Decision

Receive decision within 3 weeks (standard service)

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about UK student visas

How early can I apply for a UK student visa?

You can apply for a UK student visa:

  • General Student Visa: Up to 6 months before your course starts
  • Child Student Visa: Up to 6 months before your course starts
  • Short-Term Study Visa: Up to 3 months before your travel date

Processing times are typically 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK. Priority services may be available for faster processing at additional cost.

Can I work in the UK on a student visa?

Work rights depend on your visa type:

  • Student Visa (General): Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during vacations
  • Child Student Visa: Limited work for students aged 16+ (10 hours/week during term)
  • Short-Term Study Visa: No work permitted (paid or unpaid)

There are restrictions on certain jobs (e.g., professional sportsperson, entertainer). Your institution may also have rules about working during studies.

Can I extend my UK student visa?

Extension possibilities vary:

  • Student Visa (General): Can extend if continuing studies at same or higher level
  • Child Student Visa: Can extend until age 18 if continuing studies
  • Short-Term Study Visa: Cannot be extended - must leave UK before expiry

You must apply before your current visa expires and meet all requirements. Maximum time limits apply (typically 5 years for degree level, 2 years for below degree).

Can I bring family members on a student visa?

Dependent rules depend on your course:

  • Postgraduate students: Can bring spouse/partner and children if studying a Master's or PhD lasting 9+ months
  • Government-sponsored students: Can bring dependents if studying any course lasting 6+ months
  • Undergraduate students: Generally cannot bring dependents (exceptions may apply)
  • Child students: Parents may apply for separate visas to accompany child

Dependents must meet financial requirements and pay separate application fees.

What happens after I finish my studies?

After completing studies, you have several options:

  • Graduate Route: Stay for 2 years (3 years for PhD) to work at any skill level
  • Skilled Worker Visa: Switch if you have a job offer from a licensed sponsor
  • Further Study: Apply for new student visa if continuing education
  • Leave UK: Depart before visa expires (extra time granted after course end)

The Graduate Route allows you to work without sponsorship after completing an eligible qualification at a UK institution.

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