UK Student Visa Requirements

The UK student visa (which is known as a Tier 4 visa) makes it possible for international students to live and study in the UK for the duration of their course. It’s issued by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), part of the Home Office, and is essential if you plan to study at any level for more than six months in the UK.

When applying, you’ll need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK university, proof of funds, evidence of care arrangement (under 18) and evidence of English language proficiency, typically through a UKVI-approved IELTS test. Applicants from certain countries, including Kenya, may also need to take a TB test at an approved centre.

As an international student, to apply for a student visa, you must:

• know how to speak, read, write, and understand English.

• Ensure you have sufficient funds to support yourself and cover your course expenses.

• Receive an unconditional offer for a course with a licensed student visa sponsor.

Planning ahead for visa expenses and processing times is very important to prevent delays in your study schedule.

• Visa application fee: £524 (for applications made outside the UK).

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,164 for a 1-year course, giving you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).

• Processing time: Usually 3 weeks if you apply outside the UK, though priority and super-priority services are available at extra cost.

Once approved, you’ll be required to set up a UKVI account to access your eVisa.

You must apply for your student visa application online through the British Government's official Gov.UK website (unless you are applying from North Korea, in which case you can use a hardcopy form).

When applying for your student visa, you will generally need:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number and supporting documents used for obtaining CAS.

• Colour photograph, approximately passport size.

• Proof of funds covering your living expenses for the duration of your course.

• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance certificate (if required).

• A valid current passport or other approved travel documentation.

• Tuberculosis (TB) screening (if required).

• Assessment documentation.

Additional documents may also be needed if you are:

• Have family (dependents).

• Under 18 years of age.

• Not a citizen of the country you are applying from.

If any of your supporting documentation is not in English, you will have to translate it.  
Each translated document must be dated, have the name and signature of the translator, and be verified as an exact translation of the source material.

You must provide documentation of your proficiency in the English language when you apply for your visa. Usually, this entails completing an approved English language exam, like the IELTS.

Depending on your academic level, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) establishes minimum English language proficiency standards for speaking, writing, listening, and reading. It's possible that your sponsoring educational institution has certain English language requirements.

When you apply for a visa, a UKVI officer may interview you. Regardless of your English exam results, you may be refused admission to the UK if you are unable to carry on a simple conversation without an interpreter.

Visa interviews are sometimes part of the application process to verify your intentions as a student. Be prepared to answer questions clearly and confidently. Here are some common questions:

1. Could you clarify any gaps in your academic record?

2. In what ways will taking this course support your career aspirations?

3. What made you choose your specific university and course?

4. Have you looked into accommodation options?

5. What motivates your decision to pursue studies in the UK?

6. How do you intend to finance your studies and living costs?

7. How much do you know about the location of your selected university?

8. Are you planning to remain in the UK after you graduate?

A well-prepared application can make the difference between delays and approval. Below are some tips that will help you strengthen your chances of getting your visa approved quickly.

• Apply early: You can apply up to six months before your course start date (and only three months if you're switching or applying within the UK).

• Ensure CAS accuracy: Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) must exactly match the details you include in your visa application. This means your name, date of birth, course details, start and end dates, tuition fees, and any payments you’ve already made must be consistent across both documents. Even minor errors or mismatches (like a typo in your name or incorrect course code) can delay or lead to a refusal of your visa application.

• Pay the IHS and visa fees upfront before submitting your application.

• Book and take the IELTS for UKVI in advance to meet English language requirements.

• Show proof of maintenance funds: Around £1,483/month (up to 9 months) in London or £1,336/month (up to 9 months) elsewhere, plus your tuition fee balance.

• Arrange TB screening, if required, at a UKVI-approved centre (valid for six months).

• Apply for your student visa through the Gov.UK website, submit documents via the VFS Global website, and attend your biometric enrolment appointment.

• Use UK ENIC (formerly NARIC) for qualification verification, if requested.

As part of your application, you also need to obtain a biometric residence permit (BRP) from UKVI.

To have your thumbs and fingers scanned and a digital picture of your face taken, you must schedule an appointment with UKVI.

Don’t let your student visa application stress you out. With IDP Education’s expert guidance, you can apply confidently and join the thousands of students in the UK.