Student Visa

The UK’s world-class education system draws thousands of international students each year. If you’re planning to study in the UK, securing a student visa is a crucial step, and our expert support can help make the process easier. This guide offers a complete overview of visa requirements, costs, and the many benefits of studying in the UK.
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What is a UK student visa?

A UK student visa allows international students to enter the UK and study a course at an approved educational institution. This visa is part of the UK’s broader immigration system and has specific rules based on the type of course you’re taking. Still, there are a few core requirements that apply to all applicants:

  • You must have a confirmed offer from a licensed UK educational institution that is approved to sponsor international students.
  • You need to prove your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English at a required level.
  • You must be 16 years or older. If you are under 18, parental consent is also required.
  • You should have enough money to pay for your course fees and support yourself while living in the UK.

As part of your visa application, you’ll need to provide documents showing that you meet these requirements, along with any additional conditions specific to your course or personal circumstances.

Student Visa Course Requirements

To apply for a UK student visa, the first step is to receive an offer from a licensed education provider in the UK. Once accepted, the institution will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)—a key document with a unique reference number that contains important details about your course.

You can only begin your visa application after receiving your CAS. Note that your CAS is valid for up to 6 months. If you don’t apply within that time, you’ll need to request a new one.

In addition to studying at a licensed institution, your course must meet specific requirements. The following types of courses are accepted for a student visa:

  • A full-time course below degree level (RQF levels 3–5) with at least 15 hours of classroom-based study per week.
  • A full-time degree-level or higher course (RQF levels 6–8).
  • A full-time overseas course (at RQF level 6 or above) that’s equivalent to a UK degree and includes part of the study in the UK.
  • A part-time course at postgraduate level (RQF level 7 or above).
  • A recognized foundation program for postgraduate doctors or dentists.
  • An English language course at B2 level or above (CEFR scale).

Additional Note for Postgraduate Doctors or Dentists:

You can apply for a student visa if:

  • You are sponsored for a recognized foundation program.
  • You’ve completed a recognized UK degree in medicine or dentistry.
  • A registered student sponsor awarded your degree.
  • You spent your final year and at least one additional academic year of the course studying in the UK.

UK Student Visa Processing and Decision Waiting Times

The timeframes and application rules differ depending on whether you’re applying from outside or inside the UK.

Applying from Outside the UK

You can apply for your student visa up to 6 months before your course begins. Most applications made from abroad are processed quickly, with decisions typically issued within 3 weeks.

Applying from Inside the UK

If you’re already in the UK on a valid visa, you can apply for a student visa up to 3 months before your new course starts. However, you must:

  • Apply before your current visa expires
  • Ensure your new course starts within 28 days of your current visa’s expiry

In this case, the usual processing time is around 8 weeks.

Faster Processing Options

If you need your visa decision sooner, priority services are available in many locations both inside and outside the UK. These services often offer a much quicker turnaround, sometimes as fast as 1 working day. Keep in mind:

  • Priority service availability varies by location
  • Extra fees apply for faster processing
  • Slots may be limited, so early booking is advised

Student Visa English Language Requirement

To be eligible for a UK student visa, you must show that you can speak, read, write, and understand English to a certain level. This is a key requirement for studying in the UK.

There are several ways you can meet this requirement:

  • You’re from a majority English-speaking country.
    This includes countries like Australia, the USA, Ireland, New Zealand, Jamaica, and others such as Barbados, Malta, and Trinidad & Tobago.
  • You’ve previously proved your English level.
    If you’ve already met the English language requirement in a past UK visa application, you may not need to prove it again.
  • You studied in the UK while under 18.
    If you have GCSE, A-Level, or equivalent English qualifications from a UK school that you attended before the age of 18, this may count as proof.
  • You pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT).
    This test must be taken through an approved provider and will assess your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.

Required English Levels:

Your course level will determine how strong your English skills need to be:

  • For degree-level courses or higher: You need CEFR level B2
  • For courses below degree level: You need CEFR level B1

Your education provider will guide you on what tests or documents are accepted, and they may also conduct their own assessment if approved to do so.

UK Student Visa Application Fee and Other Costs

Applying for a UK student visa involves more than just the visa fee. Here’s a breakdown of the mandatory charges and other possible expenses you might need to budget for:

1. Student Visa Application Fee

The cost to apply for a student visa is £490, whether you’re applying from within or outside the UK. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

All student visa applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).

  • The IHS fee for students is £776 per year.
  • You must pay for the entire length of your visa when applying.
    For example, if your course lasts 3 years, you’ll need to pay £2,328 upfront.

3. Biometric Enrolment Fee

When submitting your visa application, you’ll also be required to attend a biometric appointment where your fingerprints and photo will be taken.

  • The fee typically ranges between £100 to £200, depending on your location and appointment type.
  • Early or cheaper slots may get booked quickly, so try to schedule your appointment early.

4. Other Possible Costs

Depending on your individual situation, you might also need to pay for:

  • English language proficiency tests (like IELTS or SELT)
  • Tuberculosis (TB) test (required in some countries)
  • Document translation or certification services (if your paperwork isn’t in English)
  • Priority processing fees if you choose a faster service for a quicker decision

Make sure to plan your budget carefully and check the latest fees before applying, as charges may change over time.

Student Visa Rights and Entitlements

Once your UK student visa is approved, you’ll receive detailed information about your rights and restrictions while studying in the UK. These rules help ensure you stay compliant with visa conditions throughout your academic journey.

What You Can Do

  • Pursue full-time academic studies at your chosen licensed institution
  • Work part-time during term time and full-time during holidays (subject to course and institution type)
  • Act as a student union sabbatical officer, if elected
  • Bring your partner and dependent children, depending on your course level and duration

What You Cannot Do

  • Claim public funds or state pensions
  • Work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach
  • Be self-employed or run your own business
  • Study at local authority-funded schools (also known as maintained schools or academies)

Always refer to the official visa guidelines or consult a qualified immigration advisor if you’re unsure about what’s allowed under your visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply for a UK student visa?
You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts if you’re applying from outside the UK. If you’re applying from within the UK, the window is 3 months before your course start date.
The application fee is £490. Additionally, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £776 per year of study.
Yes, most students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, depending on your course and visa conditions.
Yes, unless you’re from an English-speaking country or have already proved your English level in a previous visa application. Most students take a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider.
You can bring your partner and children if you’re studying a postgraduate course that lasts 9 months or more at a licensed provider.
If you apply from outside the UK, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks. From inside the UK, it can take up to 8 weeks, unless you use a priority service.
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Crown Visa is dedicated exclusively to helping clients secure UK visa approvals. Our proven track record reflects our expertise and in-depth knowledge of the UK immigration system. Whether you’re an employer seeking skilled workers from abroad or an individual wishing to reunite with family in the UK, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.