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UK student visa requirements

Dreaming of pursuing education in the United Kingdom? The UK Student visa offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the culturally rich academic environment of this country. Whether you're aiming for a degree program or seeking an education in an independent school, the UK Student visa is your gateway to fulfilling academic experiences. Additionally, if you have family members who wish to accompany you during your studies, the UK student visa dependent option ensures they can join you on your educational journey, allowing you to focus on your studies with the support of your loved ones by your side. Take the first step towards your academic aspirations with the UK Student visa.

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To apply for a Student visa in the UK, you must meet the following eligibility criteria

  • You must be 16 years or older.
  • You must have received an offer for a course from a licensed student sponsor.
  • You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and pay for your course.
  • You must have proficiency in English language skills.
  • If you are aged 16 or 17 and wish to study at an independent school, you may be eligible for a Child Student visa instead.

You can apply for a Student visa from outside the UK as early as 6 months before the start of your course. Typically, you’ll receive a decision on your visa application within 3 weeks.

If you’re applying from within the UK, you can apply as early as 3 months before your course starts. It’s crucial to apply before your current visa expires, and your new course must commence within 28 days of your current visa expiring.

The duration of stay depends on the level and length of your course. Generally, if you’re 18 or over and studying at degree level, you can stay for up to 5 years. If your course is below degree level, the maximum stay is typically up to 2 years.

Yes, you may be eligible to extend your Student visa to continue your studies or pursue a new course. Extensions are subject to meeting certain criteria, including having an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and demonstrating academic progress.

Essential documents for a Student visa application include a valid passport, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your course provider, proof of financial capability, and possibly an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate if required.

Yes, dependents such as your partner and children may be eligible to accompany you or join you later in the UK. They must meet specific criteria and provide evidence of their relationship to you.

To extend your Student visa, you must have an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and demonstrate academic progress. You can apply online, providing necessary documentation and biometric information.

Yes, you may be able to switch to a Student visa if you meet the eligibility criteria and hold a valid visa. This process involves obtaining an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and applying within specific timeframes.

To meet the financial requirements for a Student visa application, you must demonstrate adequate funds to cover your course fees and living expenses. The exact amount varies depending on your circumstances and where you’ll be studying, with specific figures outlined for courses in London and outside London.

Proficiency in English can be demonstrated by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider or holding specific qualifications such as GCSE, A level, or equivalents obtained through study at a UK school. The level of proficiency required varies depending on the level of study.

To apply for a Student visa online from outside the UK, you’ll need to complete the application process, including proving your identity, either by visiting a visa application center to provide biometric information or using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app.

If you’re already in the UK under a different visa category, you may be able to switch to a Student visa, provided you meet eligibility criteria and have received an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor. The process involves applying within specific timeframes and demonstrating financial capability.

Yes, dependents can extend their stay in the UK on a Student visa under certain conditions. They must meet specific criteria and apply separately, either simultaneously with the main applicant or before their current visa expires.

Yes, there are exceptions to the academic progress requirement for extending a Student visa. For instance, if you’re resitting exams, completing a qualification started under a previous visa, or pursuing certain medical or intercalated courses, you may not need to prove academic progress at a higher level.

The fees for extending a Student visa include £490 per person for the visa extension and the healthcare surcharge. Biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) may also be required, with no additional fee for this service.

EU Settlement Scheme holders with settled or pre-settled status do not need to apply for a Student visa in the UK. However, they must meet the eligibility criteria if they wish to study in the UK.

To switch to a Student visa within the UK, you must be present in the country and meet specific criteria, including having an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor. Additionally, you may need to prove your financial capability to support yourself during your studies.

Yes, you can apply for a Student visa even if you have previously studied in the UK under a different visa category. However, you must meet all the eligibility requirements for the Student visa, including obtaining a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and proving financial stability.

There is no specific limit to the number of times you can extend your Student visa in the UK as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria and academic progress requirements for each extension. However, it’s essential to comply with all visa regulations and maintain your status as a student.

After completing their studies, international students on a Student visa in the UK have several options, including applying for a Graduate visa to stay in the UK for up to two years, switching to a different visa category, returning to their home country, or pursuing further studies.

Yes, you can work part-time while studying on a Student visa in the UK, with certain restrictions. Typically, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled breaks or holidays. However, it’s essential to check the specific conditions of your visa.

If your Student visa application is refused, you may have the option to appeal the decision or apply for an administrative review. It’s crucial to understand the reasons for refusal and follow the appropriate procedures outlined by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

No, you cannot apply for a Student visa if you’re currently in the UK on a visit visa. However, you may need to return to your home country and apply from there, ensuring you meet all the eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation.

Yes, there are various scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities available for international students studying in the UK. These may be offered by universities, government organizations, private institutions, or external funding bodies. It’s advisable to research and apply for relevant funding options.

How do we help?

Step 1: Document and Certification Evaluation

Our partner solicitors will provide professional assistance with visa applications to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.

Step 2: Visa Application Support

Our expert team, in collaboration with reputable solicitors firms, guides you through every stage, from document preparation to submission.

Step 3: Settlement Support in the UK

Upon your arrival, we will offer comprehensive support to facilitate a smooth transition and address any needs or concerns as you settle in the UK.

Our Fees

Service Fee: £299

This fee covers the evaluation of your circumstances and the review of your documents by our expert team.

Solicitor Fee for Visa Application: £625 + VAT

This fee is for the visa application service provided by our trusted partner solicitor company, Holmes Partners.

Visa Application Fee

From Outside the UK: £490

Extension/Switch from Inside the UK: £490

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