Guide to the International Student Visa in the UK

You can apply for a student visa to study in the UK if you are sixteen or over, have been offered a course place by a licensed student sponsor and can prove you have enough money for course fees and living costs (£1,334 per month for up to 9 months for courses in London; £1,023 per month for up to 9 months for courses outside London) (no such financial proof needed if you come from certain countries, such as Switzerland or Sweden).

You will also have a sufficient grasp of English (reading, writing, listening, speaking) as shown by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider or having passed certain exams (A-levels, GCSEs) at a UK school (no such English language proficiency proof needed if you come from, or have taken a degree in, certain countries, such as Australia or New Zealand).

Student Visa Requirements in the UK

Applying from outside the UK

If applying from outside the UK, you can apply for a visa no more than six months before your course and expect a decision within three weeks.

Applying from inside the UK

If you apply from inside the UK, you can apply for a visa no more than three months before your course and expect a decision within eight weeks.

How long will my visa let me study in the UK?

How long your visa lets you stay in the UK depends on the length of your course and on what you have already studied in the UK; if you are over eighteen and taking a degree-level course, you will probably be able to stay for up to five years.

Although you may not come to the UK before the state date on your visa, you can come up to a month before your degree starts. Your visa does not entitle you to claim public funds, work in certain jobs, or be self-employed. 

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

For a visa, you will need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number once you have an unconditional offer of a place on a degree course.

You may also need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate (depending on nationality and course); tuberculosis test results; proof of funds (see above in paragraph 1); proof of relationship with, and consent of, parent or guardian, if you are under eighteen; and consent for your application from your sponsor if you have been sponsored in the last twelve months.

Graduate Visa

A Graduate visa allows eligible international students who have been awarded their degree to stay in the UK and work or look for work for up to two years after graduation. Employment can be in any sector at any level, with no minimum salary requirements needed. Students who wish to take advantage of the Graduate Visa must apply after being awarded their degree.

UK Student Visa Application

If you need to apply for your study visa in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today. Our visa team can help you throughout the process.