UK Student Visa

A Student Visa allows you to study in the UK if you’re 16 years or older. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Course Offer: You should have received an offer of a place on a course from a licensed student sponsor.
2. Financial Requirements: You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to support yourself and pay for your course. The required amount varies based on your circumstances.
3. English Proficiency: You must prove your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English.
4. Parental Consent (if under 18): If you’re 16 or 17 years old, you’ll need evidence of parental consent.
5. Child Student Visa (for Independent Schools): If you’re 16 or 17 and want to study at an independent school, you may be eligible for a Child Student Visa.

Application Timing

– Applying from Outside the UK: You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts. The decision usually takes about 3 weeks.

– Applying from Inside the UK: Apply at least 3 months before your course starts. Your new course must begin within 28 days of your current visa expiring. The decision typically takes about 8 weeks.

Duration of Stay

– If your course is at degree level and you’re 18 or older, you can stay in the UK for up to 5 years.

– For courses below degree level, you can usually stay for up to 2 years.

Extending Your Stay

You may be able to:

– Extend your visa if eligible (e.g., to continue studies).

– Switch to a Student visa from another visa category.

– Switch to a Graduate visa after successfully completing your course.

Travel to the UK

– You can arrive:

– Up to 1 week before if your course lasts 6 months or less.

– Up to 1 month before if your course lasts more than 6 months.

– Do not travel before the start date given on your visa, regardless of your course start date.

Fees and Healthcare Surcharge

– Visa Application Fee:

– £490 for applying from outside the UK.

– £490 to extend or switch from inside the UK.

– Healthcare Surcharge is also part of your application; the amount depends on your visa duration.

Bringing Dependents

You may be able to bring your partner and children (dependants).

Application Process

1. Obtain a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) document from your educational institution.
2. Apply online through the [UK Government website](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply-online).
3. Provide accurate information and upload supporting documents.

Remember, this visa replaces the previous Tier 4 (General) student visa. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

For more details, visit the official [UK Student Visa page](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa)