Student Visas Explained

The UK Student visa allows eligible international students to study with an approved education provider in the United Kingdom.

To qualify, you will normally need:

• An unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor

• A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies

• Enough money for tuition fees and living costs

• Evidence of the required English-language ability

• A valid passport

• Any additional documents required for your circumstances

• Parental consent if you are 16 or 17

The visa application fee is currently £558, whether you apply from outside the UK or apply inside the UK to extend or switch. Most applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, currently charged at £776 for each year of immigration permission for students.

Students applying from outside the UK can normally apply up to six months before the course begins. The published decision time is usually three weeks, although complex cases can take longer.

The Student visa rules are detailed and can change.

This guide is a general explanation rather than individual immigration advice. Always check current government guidance and use the international student advisers at your university before submitting an application.

UK Student Visa Requirements at a Glance

Requirement	What you normally need
Age	At least 16
University offer	An offer from a licensed student sponsor
CAS	A valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies
Course fees	Funds for the amount shown on your CAS
Living costs	£1,529 a month in London or £1,171 outside London, for up to nine months
English	Normally CEFR B2 for degree-level study
Application fee	£558
Healthcare surcharge	£776 for each year of immigration permission
Application timing	Up to six months before the course when applying overseas
Normal processing time	Three weeks overseas or eight weeks inside the UK
Work	Commonly up to 20 hours a week in term time for eligible degree students
Dependants	Usually restricted to research postgraduates and certain sponsored students

The financial figures, fees and immigration conditions above are current in August 2026 and may change before a future application.

Who Needs a Student Visa?

You may need a Student visa when you:

• Are aged 16 or over

• Do not already hold immigration permission allowing the study

• Have been accepted onto an eligible course

• Intend to study in the UK for more than a short visit

A Student visa is commonly used for:

• Undergraduate degrees

• Foundation years

• Master’s degrees

• Doctoral courses

• Some further education courses

• Certain pre-sessional English programmes

You must be sponsored by an education provider holding the appropriate Student sponsor licence.

Who May Not Need a Student Visa?

You may not need this visa when you:

• Are a British or Irish citizen

• Hold settled status or another immigration status permitting study

• Already have valid permission under another route that allows your course

• Are completing an eligible short course under visitor rules

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who do not hold another qualifying UK status will generally need appropriate immigration permission for courses lasting longer than six months. Eligible study lasting no more than six months may sometimes be completed as a visitor.

Your university can help confirm whether the Student route is appropriate, but it cannot grant the visa.

Student Visa vs Child Student Visa

The Student visa is available from age 16 and is normally used for further or higher education.

The Child Student visa is for children aged between four and 17 who will study at an independent school. It cannot be used to attend a state-funded school or ordinary university course.

A 16 or 17-year-old could therefore qualify for either route depending on:

• The education provider

• The type of course

• Their living arrangements

• The sponsor

• Their individual circumstances

Follow the institution’s instructions carefully.

Student Visa vs Short-Term Study Visa

The Short-term Study visa is specifically for English-language courses lasting more than six months but no longer than 11 months.

It does not permit:

• Employment

• Business activity

• Work placements

• Dependants

• Extension inside the UK

An English course lasting six months or less may be possible under visitor rules, while a longer course generally requires the Student route.

The Student Visa Application Process

A typical application follows these stages:

1. Apply to a UK university or education provider.

2. Receive an academic offer.

3. Meet the conditions of the offer.

4. Pay any required tuition deposit.

5. Complete the university’s CAS checks.

6. Receive and check your CAS.

7. Prepare financial evidence.

8. Prepare English and other supporting documents.

9. Complete the online visa application.

10. Pay the visa fee and healthcare surcharge.

11. Prove your identity.

12. Attend an interview if requested.

13. Receive the decision.

14. Access your eVisa.

15. Travel to the UK within the permitted dates.

16. Complete university enrolment.

Do not begin the visa application simply because you have received a conditional university offer.

You normally need the CAS first.

What Is a CAS?

CAS stands for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.

It is an electronic sponsorship record created by your university or education provider.

Your CAS contains a unique reference number that you use in the visa application. It also records important information about:

• Your name

• Passport

• University

• Course

• Course level

• Course dates

• Tuition fees

• Fees already paid

• Qualifications used for admission

• English-language assessment

• Work placement where applicable

• ATAS requirements where applicable

A CAS is valid for six months from the date it is assigned. Receiving a CAS does not guarantee that your visa application will be approved because you must still meet all the immigration requirements.

When Will the University Issue Your CAS?

Universities normally issue a CAS only after you have:

• Accepted the appropriate offer

• Met academic conditions

• Met the English-language condition

• Supplied your passport

• Provided requested certificates

• Completed immigration-history checks

• Paid any required tuition deposit

• Confirmed your funding

• Answered any credibility questions

The precise process differs between universities.

Some institutions issue a draft CAS statement and ask you to approve the details before assigning the final CAS.

Check it very carefully.

What Should You Check on the CAS?

Confirm that the following are correct:

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Nationality

• Passport number

• Course title

• Course level

• Start date

• End date

• Tuition fee

• Tuition payments

• Accommodation payments where recorded

• Qualifications assessed

• English-language information

• ATAS requirement

• University sponsor details

Tell the university immediately when anything is wrong.

Do not decide that a small passport or date error probably does not matter. Immigration paperwork is not especially fond of creative interpretation.

Can a CAS Be Reused?

A CAS is intended to support one visa application.

When an application is refused, withdrawn or granted, contact the university before attempting another application. You may need a new CAS or a sponsor note.

Do not reuse the number unless the university confirms that it remains valid and suitable.

When Can You Apply?

Applying From Outside the UK

You can normally apply up to six months before the course start date.

The published decision time is usually three weeks after you have completed the application, proved your identity and provided the required documents.

Apply early enough to allow for:

• Document problems

• Bank-evidence timing

• TB testing

• ATAS

• Interviews

• Additional information requests

• Delayed decisions

• Travel arrangements

You do not have to apply on the first possible day, but leaving the application until the week before enrolment is an unnecessary adventure.

Applying From Inside the UK

You can normally apply up to three months before the new course begins.

You must:

• Apply before your current immigration permission expires

• Meet the rules for switching or extending

• Ensure the new course begins within the permitted period

• Follow academic progression requirements where applicable

The usual published decision time for an in-country application is eight weeks. You must not leave the UK, Ireland, Channel Islands or Isle of Man while an in-country application is pending, as the application may be treated as withdrawn.

Not every immigration category allows a person to switch into the Student route from inside the UK.

Check before applying.

How Much Does a UK Student Visa Cost?

Visa Application Fee

As of August 2026, the Student visa application fee is:

• £558 when applying outside the UK

• £558 when extending or switching inside the UK

Each dependant makes a separate application and pays a separate fee.

Optional services such as priority processing or assistance at a visa application centre may cost extra.

Availability differs by country and application.

Immigration Health Surcharge

Most students applying for immigration permission lasting more than six months must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.

The student rate is currently £776 for each year of permission. The total is based on the length of the visa, not simply the academic length printed in a university prospectus.

A visa can include additional time:

• Before the course starts

• After the course ends

This means the surcharge may be calculated for a longer period than the precise teaching dates.

For part-years:

• More than six months but less than one year is charged as a full year.

• Periods over a full year are rounded according to the government’s charging rules, often using half-year increments.

Use the official calculation shown during the application rather than estimating the payment from the number of academic years alone.

What Does the Healthcare Surcharge Cover?

Paying the surcharge gives you access to NHS healthcare during your valid immigration period on broadly the same basis as an ordinarily resident person.

It does not mean every healthcare service is free.

You may still need to pay for services such as:

• Prescriptions in England

• Dental treatment

• Eye tests

• Glasses

• Some vaccinations

• Private healthcare

Read Healthcare in the UK [Healthcare in the UK] before travelling.

Student Visa Financial Requirements

You must normally show that you have enough money for:

1. Your outstanding course fees

2. Your living costs

3. Additional living costs for eligible dependants

The course-fee amount is recorded on your CAS.

Course Fees

You normally need funds for the tuition fees due for one academic year, up to nine months.

Use the figure shown on the CAS, not:

• An old university webpage

• A provisional offer

• An agent’s estimate

• Your own calculation

Payments already made to the university should be accurately recorded on the CAS.

When a payment is missing, contact the university before applying.

Living-Cost Requirement

The current maintenance requirement is:

Study location	Required amount
London	£1,529 a month
Outside London	£1,171 a month

The calculation uses a maximum of nine months.

This produces a maximum living-cost requirement of:

• £13,761 in London

• £10,539 outside London

For immigration purposes, London means the City of London and the 32 London boroughs.

These are evidence thresholds.

They are not promises that this amount will cover your actual accommodation and lifestyle.

Student Visa Financial Example

Imagine that your CAS shows:

• First-year tuition fee: £20,000

• Tuition already paid: £5,000

• Study location: outside London

• Course length: longer than nine months

You would normally need to show:

• Outstanding tuition: £15,000

• Maintenance: £10,539

Total financial requirement: £25,539

You must also separately pay:

• Visa fee

• Healthcare surcharge

• Travel

• Any other application expenses

Do not include the visa fee or healthcare surcharge within the balance needed to meet the course and maintenance requirement.

The 28-Day Financial Evidence Rule

When relying on personal bank funds, the required amount must normally remain available for at least 28 consecutive days.

The final date of that 28-day period must be within 31 days of the visa application date.

The balance must not fall below the required amount at any point during the 28 days.

Even a one-day drop can cause the evidence to fail.

Example of the 28-Day Rule

Suppose you need £25,539.

Your account must show at least £25,539 continuously throughout the required 28-day period.

When the balance falls to £25,500 for one day before rising again, you cannot use the original starting date. A new 28-day period begins only once the account again contains the full amount.

Which Date Is the Visa Application Date?

For these rules, the relevant date is normally the day you submit the online application and pay the fee.

It is not usually:

• Your biometrics appointment

• The document-upload date

• Your travel date

• The day UKVI begins reviewing the case

Plan the bank-evidence dates around the online submission.

What Financial Evidence Can You Use?

You may be able to use:

• Your own money

• A parent’s money

• A partner’s money in permitted circumstances

• An eligible student loan

• Official financial sponsorship

The funds must meet the specific evidence rules.

Your Own Bank Account

The money can be held in a personal current or savings account that you control.

The account must:

• Be with a regulated financial institution

• Use electronic record keeping

• Allow immediate access to the money

• Contain legally obtained funds

Evidence may include:

• Bank statements

• Electronic statements

• Building society passbooks

• Certificates of deposit

• A bank or building society letter

The evidence must identify you, the institution and the amount held. UKVI may contact the bank to verify it.

Using a Parent’s Money

You may use money held in a parent’s account.

You will normally need:

• Financial evidence in the parent’s name

• Evidence of the relationship, such as a birth certificate

• A signed letter from the parent confirming that you may use the money

The parent’s account must meet the same requirements concerning access, duration and evidence.

Using a Partner’s Money

You may use a partner’s funds when the partner is:

• In the UK, or

• Applying at the same time

The account and relationship evidence must satisfy the applicable rules.

Student Loans

An eligible loan must normally be provided by:

• A government

• A government-sponsored student loan company

• A regulated academic or educational loan scheme

The loan letter must be dated no more than six months before the application and confirm:

• That it is a student loan

• The amount

• That the loan is for you

• That release is not subject to inappropriate conditions

• That it will be available before the course begins or paid to the sponsor

An ordinary personal loan from a relative or unregulated lender may not meet these requirements.

Official Financial Sponsorship

An official sponsor may include:

• A national government

• The UK government

• An international organisation

• An international company

• A university

• An eligible independent school

The sponsorship should be recorded on the CAS or supported by an appropriate official letter stating the amount, duration and sponsor details.

Funds You Cannot Normally Use

The current financial guidance excludes:

• Overdrafts

• Cryptocurrency

• Stocks and shares

• Pensions

• Money in an unregulated bank

• Accounts without electronic record keeping

The money must also be immediately accessible.

A valuable investment is not automatically acceptable visa evidence.

Foreign Currency

Funds held in another currency are converted into pounds using the OANDA spot exchange rate on the date of application.

Exchange rates change.

Keep a sensible financial buffer rather than holding exactly the minimum amount in local currency.

A balance that was sufficient on Monday may become insufficient after a currency movement by Friday.

Differential Evidence Arrangements

Applicants from certain countries and territories do not normally have to provide financial evidence at the point of application.

This is sometimes called the differential evidence requirement.

However:

• You must still genuinely hold the required funds.

• UKVI can request the evidence later.

• You must provide it within the stated deadline when asked.

The list includes countries such as Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, the UAE and the USA, among others. The official list should be checked at the time of application because it may change.

Do not interpret “I do not need to upload the statement now” as “I do not need the money.”

English-Language Requirements

For degree-level study, the Student route normally requires English at CEFR B2 in:

• Reading

• Writing

• Speaking

• Listening

Below-degree study normally requires CEFR B1.

You may prove English through:

• An approved Secure English Language Test

• A qualifying UK school qualification

• An eligible UK degree

• An overseas degree taught in English with the required assessment

• A university’s own assessment where the rules permit it

A higher education provider with appropriate status may assess English itself for degree-level study, provided the standard remains equivalent to B2.

University English Requirement vs Visa Requirement

These are not always identical.

A university may require a higher level than the immigration minimum.

For example, it may ask for:

• A particular IELTS overall score

• Minimum component scores

• A specific English test

• A higher writing score for law or journalism

• Higher speaking scores for healthcare

Meeting the immigration minimum does not override the university’s admissions condition.

Read English Language Requirements [English Language Requirements].

Documents Needed for a Student Visa

Every applicant normally needs:

• A current passport or other valid travel document

• A valid CAS reference

Depending on your circumstances, you may also need:

• Financial evidence

• English-language evidence

• Academic qualifications

• TB certificate

• ATAS certificate

• Parental consent

• Birth certificate

• Financial sponsor consent

• Certified translations

• Evidence connected with dependants

Academic Documents

Your CAS may list the qualifications used by the university when making its decision.

Follow the application instructions concerning whether certificates or transcripts must be uploaded.

Documents should be:

• Genuine

• Complete

• Legible

• Consistent with the CAS

• In the required language or accompanied by an accepted translation

Certified Translations

When a required document is not in English or Welsh, you may need a certified translation.

The translation should usually contain:

• Confirmation that it is accurate

• Translation date

• Translator’s name

• Signature

• Contact details

• Relevant professional credentials

Submit both the translation and the original document when required.

Do not rely on an AI translation for an official immigration document.

Under-18 Applicants

Applicants aged 16 or 17 normally need written consent from both parents or legal guardians, unless one person has sole responsibility.

The consent must cover:

• The visa application

• Travel to the UK

• Living and care arrangements

You also need evidence of the parental relationship, such as a birth certificate or another government-issued document.

Tuberculosis Testing

You need a TB test when all of the following apply:

• You are coming to the UK for six months or more.

• You have lived for six months or more in a listed country.

• You were living in that or another listed country within the previous six months.

The test must be completed at a clinic approved by the Home Office. A certificate showing that you do not have active TB is normally valid for six months from the date of the chest X-ray.

Appointments can be limited during busy periods.

Arrange the test early enough that:

• The certificate is available before the visa application

• It remains valid

• Further testing can be completed if the X-ray is unclear

What Is ATAS?

ATAS stands for the Academic Technology Approval Scheme.

It applies to certain international students and researchers studying sensitive technology-related subjects. It is particularly relevant to some postgraduate science, engineering and technology courses.

Your university or CAS information should tell you whether you need it.

Where ATAS is required, obtain the certificate before submitting the visa application.

A missing required ATAS certificate can lead to refusal and can prevent the university from registering you on the course.

Most ordinary undergraduate applicants will not require ATAS, although some integrated programmes may need careful checking.

Completing the Online Application

The application is completed online.

You will provide information about areas such as:

• Personal identity

• Passport

• Contact details

• Course

• CAS

• Funding

• Immigration history

• Travel

• Family

• Criminal history

• Previous refusals

Answer accurately and consistently.

A previous visa refusal does not automatically mean another application will fail. Hiding it can create a far more serious problem.

Proving Your Identity

Depending on your passport and location, you may:

• Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app, or

• Attend a visa application centre for fingerprints and a photograph

The application process will tell you which method applies.

If you attend a visa application centre:

• Take the required passport

• Follow its security rules

• Arrive on time

• Bring any documents the centre requests

• Understand which optional services cost extra

A visa application centre provides administrative services. It does not decide the application.

Student Visa Credibility Interviews

UKVI may ask you to attend an interview.

The purpose may be to establish whether you are a genuine student and whether the information in the application is credible.

Possible questions include:

• Why did you choose this course?

• Why did you choose this university?

• Which modules will you study?

• How does the course connect with your previous education?

• How will it support your career?

• Who is funding you?

• What are your tuition and living costs?

• Where will you live?

• Why have you chosen the UK?

• What do you know about your visa conditions?

The Home Office may consider factors including your education history, reasons for choosing the course, funding and whether the proposed study represents credible academic progression.

Preparing for the Interview

Review:

• Your application

• CAS

• Course page

• Modules

• University

• Location

• Funding

• Career plans

• Previous immigration history

Answer honestly.

Do not memorise a script supplied by an agent. Interviewers may ask follow-up questions, and memorised answers tend to unravel with remarkable enthusiasm once the wording changes.

You should be able to explain your own decision naturally.

What Happens After You Apply?

UKVI may:

• Approve the application

• Request further documents

• Contact the bank

• Invite you to interview

• Ask for additional payment

• Take longer because the case is complex

• Refuse the application

Applications may take longer when documents need verification, an interview is required or personal circumstances need further consideration.

Monitor:

• Email

• Spam folder

• Online application account

• Messages from the visa centre

• University communications

Respond within every stated deadline.

Priority Services

Some applicants may be offered paid priority or super-priority services.

Availability depends on:

• Country

• Application type

• Capacity

• Time of year

Paying for faster processing does not:

• Improve your eligibility

• Fix incorrect evidence

• Guarantee approval

• Prevent additional checks

What Is an eVisa?

Successful applicants now receive an eVisa, an online record of their immigration status.

You may need to:

• Create or access a UKVI account

• Link the passport you will use for travel

• Check that your details are correct

• Update the account when you receive a new passport

• Generate a share code when required

Check:

• Name

• Date of birth

• Visa type

• Start date

• Expiry date

• Work conditions

Report errors promptly.

Keep copies of:

• Decision email

• CAS

• Submitted application

• Payment receipts

• Supporting documents

When Can You Travel to the UK?

You can normally arrive:

• Up to one week before a course lasting six months or less

• Up to one month before a course lasting more than six months

You must not travel before the start date of your immigration permission, even when the academic course begins later.

Do not confuse:

• Course start date

• Enrolment date

• Accommodation start date

• Visa start date

All four can be different.

Documents to Carry When Travelling

Keep important information in your hand luggage, including:

• Passport

• Visa decision information

• CAS details

• University offer

• Accommodation address

• Financial evidence

• Tuition payment evidence

• TB certificate where applicable

• Contact details for the university

A border officer may ask about:

• Your course

• University

• Funding

• Accommodation

Answer consistently with the visa application.

After Arriving in the UK

You will normally need to complete university enrolment.

This may involve:

• Passport check

• eVisa check

• Address confirmation

• Contact details

• Tuition payment

• Academic registration

• Attendance at orientation

• Collection of student identification

Your university has sponsorship duties and must monitor matters including enrolment and significant changes to your studies. A sponsor must report a student who does not enrol within the permitted period.

Contact the university immediately when:

• Your flight is delayed

• Your visa is delayed

• You cannot arrive by the enrolment deadline

• You are ill

• Your plans change

Silence is rarely the ideal immigration strategy.

Working on a Student Visa

Work rights depend on:

• Course level

• Whether it is full time

• Sponsor type

• Sponsor compliance status

• Term dates

• The conditions shown on your immigration record

A student on a full-time degree-level course sponsored by an eligible higher education provider will commonly be permitted to work:

• Up to 20 hours a week during term time

• Full time during official vacations

Students on eligible below-degree courses may be limited to 10 hours a week, while some students have no permission to work.

Your own eVisa conditions are the final authority.

What Counts as a Week?

For Student visa work limits, a week is generally treated as a seven-day period running from Monday to Sunday.

The limit applies to the combined total across all jobs.

For example:

• Job A: 12 hours

• Job B: 8 hours

• Total: 20 hours

You cannot work another paid hour that week during term time when your limit is 20.

What Counts as Term Time?

Term time is defined by your education provider.

It may not match the holiday dates of another university.

Postgraduate students should be particularly cautious.

A dissertation period may still count as term time even when undergraduate students are on summer holiday.

Ask the university for official term dates and keep a copy. Student sponsors are expected to tell students when their term and vacation periods apply so they can comply with work limits.

Work You Cannot Normally Do

Student visa holders are generally prohibited from:

• Self-employment

• Business activity

• Working as a professional sportsperson

• Working as a sports coach

• Taking certain permanent full-time positions while studying

• Exceeding the hours permitted

Freelancing can count as self-employment.

This may include:

• Selling services independently

• Issuing invoices

• Operating as a sole trader

• Running an online business

• Regular commercial influencing

• Paid independent consultancy

Do not assume online work is outside the rules merely because the client is overseas.

Read Working While Studying [Working While Studying].

Can You Fund Your Studies Through Work?

Do not plan to fund tuition fees or all living costs through UK employment.

Reasons include:

• Hours are restricted.

• Jobs are not guaranteed.

• Study remains your main purpose.

• Wages may not cover high accommodation costs.

• You must normally show funds before the visa is granted.

Part-time work can supplement your budget, but it is not a replacement for a viable funding plan.

Bringing Your Partner or Children

Most international undergraduate and taught master’s students cannot bring dependants under the Student route.

You may normally qualify to bring a dependant only when you are:

• A government-sponsored student on a course lasting more than six months, or

• A full-time postgraduate student on a course lasting at least nine months that is a PhD, doctorate or research-based higher degree

These restrictions apply to postgraduate courses beginning on or after 1 January 2024.

Eligible dependants can include:

• Husband

• Wife

• Civil partner

• Unmarried partner

• Child under 18

Relationship evidence is required.

Dependant Financial Requirement

Each eligible dependant must normally show:

Study location	Amount for each dependant
London	£845 a month for up to nine months
Outside London	£680 a month for up to nine months

The same 28-day and 31-day timing requirements generally apply.

Each dependant must also:

• Make an application

• Pay the £558 visa fee

• Pay the healthcare surcharge

• Prove identity

• Meet the relevant requirements

Changing Course or University

A Student visa is connected with:

• Your sponsor

• Course

• Level

• Dates

• CAS

You cannot assume that you may freely transfer to another university using the same visa.

When changing university, you will normally need:

• A new offer

• A new CAS

• A new Student visa application

Students changing course with the same university may sometimes continue under existing permission, but only when detailed conditions are met. The sponsor must report significant changes, including a change of course or study location.

Speak to the university’s immigration team before:

• Changing course

• Withdrawing

• Interrupting study

• Moving university

• Starting a new programme

• Extending the course

Do not rely only on academic approval. A change that is academically possible may still require immigration action.

Attendance and Engagement

Your university must monitor whether sponsored students:

• Enrol

• Attend

• Engage academically

• Continue studying

• Complete required activities

When a student stops attending, withdraws or is removed from a course, the university may have to report this to UKVI.

This can lead to immigration permission being shortened or cancelled.

Contact the university when illness or personal circumstances affect study.

There may be support for:

• Temporary absence

• Authorised interruption

• Mitigating circumstances

• Remote study in limited circumstances

• Repeating assessments

The immigration consequences depend on:

• Length of interruption

• Whether the course can still be completed within the visa period

• Whether sponsorship continues

• University policy

• Current rules

Extending a Student Visa

You may need an extension when:

• Starting a new course

• Progressing from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree

• Repeating part of a course

• Completing a doctorate

• Extending after an approved change

• Completing study after an interruption

When applying inside the UK, you must normally:

• Hold eligible current immigration permission

• Apply before it expires

• Receive a new CAS

• Meet academic progression rules

• Meet the current English and financial rules where applicable

An in-country application can normally be submitted up to three months before the course starts, and the new course must begin within the permitted period after current permission expires.

A CAS used for an extension must be used within six months of assignment.

Academic Progression

When extending from inside the UK, the new course will normally need to represent academic progression.

This commonly means moving to a higher academic level.

Study at the same level may sometimes be permitted when:

• The courses are connected

• The combination supports a genuine career or academic plan

• The university explains the justification

• Other requirements are met

Caseworkers may examine education history and the credibility of the reason for further study at the same level.

Staying in the UK After Your Course

The Student visa is temporary and does not directly lead to settlement.

You may later qualify for another route, such as:

• Graduate visa

• Skilled Worker visa

• Global Talent visa

• Family route

• Another Student visa

Eligibility depends on the rules operating at that time.

Graduate Visa

Under the rules current in August 2026, eligible graduates can receive:

• Two years when applying on or before 31 December 2026

• 18 months when applying on or after 1 January 2027

• Three years after an eligible PhD or doctorate

A student beginning a three or four-year degree now will apply under whatever rules exist after graduation.

Current post-study rights are not a guarantee of future immigration policy.

Common Reasons for Student Visa Problems

Incorrect Financial Evidence

Common issues include:

• Balance falling below the minimum

• Money held for fewer than 28 days

• Statement dated too early

• Wrong account holder

• Unacceptable bank

• Inaccessible funds

• Missing parental consent

• Currency fluctuation

• CAS fee figure not matching the calculation

Applying Before Checking the CAS

An incorrect course date, passport number or tuition payment can affect the application.

Missing TB or ATAS Evidence

Where either is required, the document must be obtained through the correct official process.

Inconsistent Information

Problems can arise when information differs between:

• University application

• CAS

• Visa application

• Bank evidence

• Previous visa forms

• Interview answers

Weak Credibility Answers

You should understand:

• The course

• University

• Funding

• Career plan

• Reason for studying in the UK

Hiding Previous Refusals

Declare immigration history accurately.

A previous refusal can be explained. Concealing it can damage credibility and may lead to refusal on suitability grounds.

False Documents or Information

Never submit:

• Altered bank statements

• Invented sponsorship letters

• False certificates

• Incorrect work history

• Misleading family information

When an application is refused because deception has been established, future applications can be subject to a ten-year refusal period.

Applying Too Late

Late applications create risks involving:

• Enrolment

• Accommodation

• Flights

• Course start dates

• CAS validity

• University sponsorship

Relying Entirely on an Agent

An agent can help with administration.

You remain responsible for:

• Accuracy

• Documents

• Answers

• Payments

• Application contents

Never allow an agent to submit information you have not reviewed.

What Happens If the Visa Is Refused?

The refusal letter should explain:

• The reason

• The rule applied

• Whether administrative review is available

• The deadline

• Any next steps

Contact the university immediately.

Do not submit another application before understanding the refusal.

Possible options may include:

• Administrative review

• Corrected application with a new CAS

• Deferring the course

• Seeking regulated immigration advice

• Withdrawing from the university place

The correct response depends on the refusal reason.

Administrative review is intended to consider whether a caseworking error occurred. It is not simply a chance to submit a completely different application.

Student Visa Checklist

Before Receiving the CAS

•  I have accepted the correct university offer.

•  I have met the academic conditions.

•  I have met the English condition.

•  My passport is valid.

•  I have paid the required deposit.

•  The university has my correct personal details.

•  I have declared previous visa refusals.

•  I have completed the university’s CAS checks.

CAS Check

•  My name matches my passport.

•  My passport number is correct.

•  The course title is correct.

•  The course level is correct.

•  Start and end dates are correct.

•  Tuition fees are correct.

•  Payments are recorded.

•  Qualifications are accurate.

•  English information is correct.

•  The ATAS position is correct.

Financial Evidence

•  I have calculated the outstanding tuition fee.

•  I have included the correct London or outside-London maintenance amount.

•  The full balance has been held for 28 days.

•  The evidence is within the 31-day limit.

•  The account permits immediate access.

•  The bank is regulated.

•  I have allowed for currency changes.

•  Parental evidence is included where needed.

•  I am not relying on excluded funds.

Supporting Documents

•  Passport

•  CAS

•  Bank evidence

•  Loan or sponsorship letter

•  English evidence

•  Academic certificates

•  TB certificate

•  ATAS certificate

•  Parental consent

•  Birth certificate

•  Certified translations

Application

•  Every answer is accurate.

•  Immigration history is complete.

•  Course information matches the CAS.

•  Funding information matches the evidence.

•  Visa fee has been paid.

•  Healthcare surcharge has been paid.

•  Identity process has been completed.

•  I monitor my email and spam folder.

After Approval

•  I have checked the eVisa.

•  My passport is linked to my UKVI account.

•  Visa dates are correct.

•  Work conditions are correct.

•  Accommodation is confirmed.

•  Travel is within the permitted dates.

•  Documents are in my hand luggage.

•  I know the university enrolment deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is a UK Student Visa?

It is immigration permission allowing an eligible international student aged 16 or over to study with a licensed UK education provider.

How Much Does a Student Visa Cost?

The visa application fee is currently £558.

Most students must also pay the healthcare surcharge at £776 for each year of immigration permission.

When Can I Apply?

You can normally apply:

• Up to six months before the course when applying outside the UK

• Up to three months before the course when applying inside the UK

How Long Does It Take?

The published normal processing times are:

• Three weeks outside the UK

• Eight weeks inside the UK

Complex cases may take longer.

What Is a CAS Number?

It is a unique reference connected with the electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies issued by your licensed sponsor.

You enter it in the visa application.

Does a CAS Guarantee a Visa?

No.

It confirms sponsorship but does not prove that you meet every immigration requirement.

How Long Is a CAS Valid?

A CAS is valid for six months from assignment.

How Much Money Do I Need?

You normally need:

• Outstanding course fees shown on the CAS

• £1,529 a month in London or £1,171 outside London for up to nine months

Can I Use My Parents’ Bank Account?

Yes, provided the evidence meets the requirements and you provide proof of the relationship and parental permission.

Can I Use Cryptocurrency?

No. Cryptocurrency is not accepted as financial evidence.

Do I Need to Submit Bank Evidence?

Many applicants do.

Some nationalities benefit from differential evidence arrangements and may not have to upload it initially. They must still meet the financial requirement and may be asked for proof later.

Do I Need IELTS?

Not always.

The university may accept another test, a qualifying degree, a UK school qualification or its own English assessment where permitted.

Degree-level study normally requires English equivalent to CEFR B2.

Do I Need a TB Test?

You may need one when you are coming for six months or more and have recently lived for the required period in a listed country.

The test must be completed at an approved clinic.

Do Undergraduate Students Need ATAS?

Most do not.

ATAS is mainly connected with certain sensitive postgraduate science and technology courses, although students should follow their university’s instructions.

Can I Work on a Student Visa?

Many eligible degree-level students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time during official vacations.

Check the exact conditions on your own eVisa.

Can I Be Self-Employed?

Student visa holders are generally prohibited from self-employment and business activity.

Can I Bring My Family?

Most undergraduate and taught postgraduate students cannot bring Student-route dependants.

The main eligible groups are government-sponsored students on qualifying courses and students on eligible postgraduate research programmes.

Can I Change University?

Usually, you will need a new CAS and a new visa application.

Speak to both universities before making any change.

What Happens If I Stop Studying?

Your university may stop sponsoring you and report the change to UKVI.

Your immigration permission may then be shortened or cancelled.

Can I Apply Again After a Refusal?

Possibly.

First identify the refusal reason, contact the university and seek appropriate advice. A new CAS may be required.

Can I Stay After Graduation?

You may be able to apply under another immigration route.

The Graduate visa and Skilled Worker visa are possible examples, but eligibility and rules may change.

Final Thoughts: Student Visas Explained

The Student visa process is easiest when completed in the correct order:

1. Secure the university offer.

2. Meet every condition.

3. Arrange your funding.

4. Receive the CAS.

5. Check every CAS detail.

6. Complete the 28-day financial period where required.

7. Gather the correct documents.

8. Apply within the permitted timeframe.

9. Pay the visa fee and healthcare surcharge.

10. Complete identity checks.

11. Respond promptly to requests.

12. Check the eVisa before travelling.

13. Enrol by the university deadline.

14. Follow your work and study conditions.

The most important practical rules are:

• Do not apply without checking the CAS.

• Do not guess the financial requirement.

• Do not let the balance fall below the minimum.

• Do not submit old bank evidence.

• Do not hide previous visa problems.

• Do not use false or altered documents.

• Do not work beyond your permitted hours.

• Do not change course or university without immigration advice.

• Do not assume that current post-study rules will remain unchanged.

A Student visa application contains many details, but none of them needs to be mysterious.

Use official guidance.

Follow the university’s instructions.

Keep accurate records.

Build a financial buffer.

Submit honest evidence.

Ask for help before a problem becomes a refusal.

Continue with English Language Requirements [English Language Requirements] for a detailed guide to IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, university tests, minimum component scores and pre-sessional English courses.