To successfully secure a study visa for the UK, Indian students typically need to meet the following eligibility requirements:
It is important to note that the UK government's requirements and policies regarding student visas can change over time, so it is important to check the latest requirements before applying. Alternatively, speak directly to a member of the SI-UK visa team who has extensive knowledge of the latest immigration legislation, rules and regulations.
| Types of student visa | Who can apply? |
|---|---|
|
General Student visa |
You can apply for a general student visa to study in the UK if:
|
| Child Student visa |
You can apply for a Child Student visa if:
|
| Short-term Student visa |
You can apply for a short-term student visa if you are studying English language courses lasting 6-11 months. |
|
Visitor visa |
You can apply for a Visitor visa if:
|
| Graduate visa |
You can apply for a Graduate visa if you plan on staying in the UK for two years after completing an undergraduate degree. |
Indian students applying for a visa to study in the UK generally need to provide the following documents:
In rare circumstances, students may require the following for their UK student visa application:
If you are applying for a student visa from outside the UK, the fee is £363. This applies to individuals not currently residing in the UK and needing a visa to study there.
If you are already in the UK and need to extend your student visa or switch to a student visa from another visa category, the fee is £490. This applies to individuals already studying in the UK and need to continue their studies or change their visa status.
If you have family members or dependents joining you in the UK, you must pay the visa fee for each person separately. As mentioned above, the fee remains the same (£363 for applications outside the UK and £490 for applications inside the UK).
In addition to the visa fee, all applicants must pay the healthcare surcharge as part of their application. The healthcare surcharge covers access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) and varies depending on the duration of your visa.
UK immigration rules require the university to sponsor your application for a student visa (this is not the same as financial sponsorship). This is called the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, or CAS.
The CAS confirms that the student has met the requirements to study their chosen course, including meeting the English language proficiency requirements and having sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees and living expenses. It also contains specific information about the student's course of study, including the course start and end dates, the tuition fees, and the sponsor's contact details. The student must include their CAS number on their visa application form, and the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will verify the CAS before issuing the visa.
It's important to note that a CAS does not guarantee a visa, but it is necessary for a student visa application.
The post-study work visa allows Indian students studying undergraduate and postgraduate courses at UK universities to look for work in the UK for 2-3 years after graduation (course dependent).
During this period, students can work at any skill level without being required to meet the conditions of a minimum threshold salary or job sponsorship from employers, and the Graduate Route is a great way for Indian students to access the lucrative UK labour market.
SI-UK's visa consultant is registered with the Home Office OISC* (Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner) and has extensive knowledge of the latest immigration legislation, rules and regulations.
SI-UK’s Student Visa Service advises and assists Indian students seeking a UK visa. It specialises in General Student visas, Child Student visas, and Short-term study visas (for English language courses lasting 6-11 months).
To begin your UK study visa application, contact SI-UK today, and one of our consultants will be in touch shortly to discuss your student visa application.
You can apply for a UK student visa up to 6 months before the start date of your course. You must apply online through the UK government's official visa and immigration website. You'll also need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) at a visa application centre in your home country.
To be eligible for a UK Student Visa, you must have a license sponsor offer to study a full-time course in the UK. You must also meet the English language proficiency requirements, have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses, and be able to prove that you intend to leave the UK after your studies are completed.
You must show that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your course. As of April 2023, the minimum amount required is £1,334 per month for living costs in London and £1,023 per month for living costs outside of London. You may also need to pay a healthcare surcharge as part of your visa application.
The length of your UK Student Visa will depend on the length of your course. If your course is less than 6 months long, you can stay in the UK for the full course plus an additional 7 days. If your course is longer than 6 months, you can stay for the full length plus an additional 4 months after the end of the course.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can extend your UK student visa. You must apply before your visa expires, and you'll need to prove that you're still studying and have enough money to support yourself. Depending on your circumstances, there may be additional requirements.
Yes, you may be able to stay in the UK after your studies if you meet the eligibility criteria. Depending on your qualifications and a job offer, you may be eligible for a post-study visa or skilled work visa.
Yes, you may be able to work with a UK Student Visa, but there are restrictions. You can work part-time during term time (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during vacation. You cannot work as a professional sportsperson, doctor or dentist in training, or a self-employed person.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end.
Rashmi Lakshanya Urban Development and Planning at University College London
