The UK is a top destination for international students with its prestigious universities and diverse educational opportunities. However, you must secure a UK student visa before you begin your educational journey.
Therefore, in this guide, we will walk you through the steps to obtain a study visa for UK, including detailed information on the cost of UK student visa and the processing time for UK student visa. Let’s open the door to your dream education in the UK!
Types of UK Student Visa:
The following three UK visa categories, or student visas, are important to be aware of for students who want to study in UK for more than six months:
- Short-term Study Visa: If you want to learn English for up to 11 months, you can apply for a short-term study visa to the UK.
- Student Visa: If you are going to the UK to pursue higher education, you will need a student visa. Previously, this was known as a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, or simply a Tier 4 Student Visa.
- Child Student Visa: Children between the ages of 4 and 17 who wish to attend an independent school in the UK can apply for a child student visa. This was previously called the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa.
UK Student Visa Eligibility:
A student must meet the following criteria to apply for study visa for UK:
- A student must receive an unconditional offer of a spot in a course from a licensed sponsor and obtain the necessary paperwork to get a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number.
- A student must have financial proof indicating the capacity to sustain themselves financially for the duration of the course. They must possess £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) if studying in London or £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) if studying outside London.
- A student must have a valid English language proficiency score.
Application Process for UK Student Visa:
The steps needed to apply for a study visa for UK are as follows:
Step 1 – Check Your Eligibility
First, confirm if you qualify for the student visa. You need to have:
- A validated enrollment at the institution of higher education where you plan to pursue your education. This is referred to as a “confirmation of acceptance for studies” (CAS).
- A sufficient amount of money to fund your course fees and living expenses in the United Kingdom.
Step 2 – Prepare Your Documents
Get all the necessary documents ready for your application.
Step 3 – Apply Online
- Register and create an account on the official UK Visa website.
- Complete the online application form, then print and sign it.
- Use the online appointment calendar to book an appointment at the visa application center.
- After completing your application, you will receive an email with your application number.
Step 4 – Pay Your Application Fee
There are four ways to pay the visa application fee:
- Standard Chartered Bank: Pay your fee at some branches, and the bank will issue a demand draft in favour of the ‘British High Commission’.
- Demand Draft: Obtain a demand draft from a nationalized or foreign bank. Bank charges will vary, and the draft must be in favour of the ‘British High Commission’.
- Visa Application Centre: Pay the fee when you submit your application.
- Online: Use a Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card to pay online.
Step 5 – Visit the Visa Application Centre
On the appointed date, visit the visa application center to submit your application, facial photograph, and fingerprints.
Withdrawing Your Application
If you need to withdraw your application, contact UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration). If processing hasn’t started, you will receive a refund of your fee.
Requirements for Your UK Student Visa Application
Here’s a handy checklist of the documents required for uk student visa you’ll typically need to gather:
- Passport: Ensure your current passport or other valid travel documentation is up to date.
- Proof of Funds: Provide evidence that you have enough money to cover your living expenses for the entire duration of your course.
- CAS Reference Number: Include your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number and any documents you used to obtain your CAS.
- Photographs: Submit passport-sized colour photographs that meet the visa requirements.
- Tuberculosis Screening: If you’re from a South Asian country, a TB screening certificate is mandatory.
- Academic Records: Prepare any assessment documentation required by your institution.
- ATAS Certificate: If applicable, obtain the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance certificate.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): You need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
Additional Documents
You may also need to provide extra documents if you:
- Are not a citizen of the country you’re applying from
- Are under 18 years of age
- Have dependents accompanying you
Having all the necessary documents ready will make your UK student visa application process smoother and more efficient.
Credibility Interview for Obtaining a UK Study Visa
UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) conducts Credibility Interviews to ensure that only “genuine students” receive a Student route visa to study in UK. As part of your UK visa application process, you may need to attend a credibility interview. It is helpful to know that UKVI often considers the following factors in this situation:
– Your reasons for choosing the UK and the specific course
– Your ability to meet the financial requirements
– Your knowledge about the course and its relevance to your career goals
– Your previous educational and immigration history
The expert study counsellors at Saga Studies can help you understand the expectations and strategies to prepare for your Credibility Interview.
Cost of UK Student Visa:
The cost of UK student visa varies depending on the type of application you submit:
- Applying from Outside the UK: The application fee for a student visa is £490.
- Extending or Switching from Inside the UK: If you need to extend or switch your student visa from within the UK, the fee is £490.
Understanding these fees is essential as you budget for your study abroad journey.
Processing Time for UK Student Visa
When you apply for a UK student visa, you can typically expect a decision within three weeks if you are outside the UK. If you apply from within the UK, the processing time usually takes around eight weeks. However, these times can vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors. To avoid any delays, ensure you submit all required documents accurately and promptly. Planning and applying early will help you manage your timeline effectively.
Tips for a Successful Application
Start Early: Begin your application process as soon as you receive your CAS number to avoid last-minute delays.
Double-check documents: Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to prevent any issues during processing.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any changes in visa regulations or requirements by regularly checking the UK government’s official website.
Conclusion
Applying for a UK student visa might seem scary, but with proper preparation and a clear understanding of the process, you can secure your visa and embark on your academic journey in the UK. Follow this guide closely, and you’ll be well on your way to studying at one of the world’s leading educational destinations. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact us.
