Counselly

Visa Guide — United Kingdom

Student Visa Guide — United Kingdom

Welcome to the Student Visa Guide for the United Kingdom! This guide provides essential information for international students looking to study in the UK, covering both undergraduate and graduate pathways. Here, you will find a step-by-step process, required documents, and helpful links to ensure a smooth application experience.

Overview

Undergraduate Students

The UK Student Route (formerly Tier 4) allows international students to study full-time at licensed institutions across England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. To apply, you will need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor, meet financial and English language requirements, pay the visa and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and attend a biometric appointment or use the UK Immigration ID Check app. This visa also permits part-time work and grants access to the Graduate Route upon completing eligible degrees.

Graduate Students

Similar to undergraduates, the UK Student Route allows international graduate students to study full-time at licensed universities in the UK. Applicants must obtain a CAS, meet financial and English requirements, and pay the visa and IHS fees. Graduate students can also bring eligible dependents and later apply for the Graduate Route to stay and work in the UK after completing their degree.

Steps — Undergraduate

Application Process

  1. Receive CAS from your university: Your university will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) after you meet all offer conditions. Learn more.

  2. Prepare documents: Gather your CAS, passport, financial documents, TB test certificate (if required), academic qualifications, and parental consent (if under 18). See required documents.

  3. Apply online for the Student visa: Submit your application on the official UK government website. You will need to enter your CAS number and pay the visa fee and IHS. Apply here.

  4. Biometrics or ID Check App: If eligible, verify your identity using the UK Immigration ID Check app. Otherwise, attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) for biometrics (photo and fingerprints). More information.

  5. Wait for a decision: Standard processing takes about 3 weeks if applying outside the UK. Priority/super-priority options may be available for extra fees. Check processing times.

  6. Travel to the UK: You can travel up to 1 month before your course start date (if your course is longer than 6 months). Ensure you carry your visa vignette, passport, and CAS documents.

  7. Collect your BRP (if applicable): If you applied using a visa vignette, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arrival at your chosen Post Office. Learn about BRP.

Steps — Graduate

Application Process

  1. Receive CAS from your university: Your university will issue a CAS after you accept your offer and meet all admission and financial requirements. Learn more.

  2. Gather supporting documents: Prepare your passport, CAS, bank statements, academic certificates, TB test (if required), and proof of English proficiency. See required documents.

  3. Apply online for the Student visa: Submit your application on GOV.UK, pay the visa and IHS fees, and upload all supporting evidence. Apply here.

  4. Provide biometrics or use the ID Check app: Verify your identity using the UK Immigration ID Check app or attend a Visa Application Centre for biometrics. More information.

  5. Wait for decision: Most applications are decided within 3 weeks if applying outside the UK. Priority and super-priority services are available. Check processing times.

  6. Travel to the UK: You can enter the UK up to one month before your course start date (if the course lasts longer than 6 months).

  7. Collect BRP or access eVisa: Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arrival or use your eVisa if available. Learn about BRP.

Required Documents — Undergraduate

  • Passport (required): Valid for the full duration of your stay.

  • CAS (required): Issued by your licensed Student Sponsor with a unique CAS number. Learn more.

  • Proof of Finances (required): Bank statements, sponsor letters, or official loans showing sufficient funds held for 28 consecutive days. See financial requirements.

  • TB Test Certificate (required): Required for students from countries listed by UKVI. More information.

  • Academic Qualifications (required): Certificates or transcripts used to obtain your CAS offer.

  • English Test Results (required): IELTS for UKVI or other approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) results. Learn more.

  • Parental Consent Letter (required): Required