UK STUDENT VISA

The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and colleges. If you’ve received an offer to study in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a UK Student Visa (previously known as the Tier 4 General Student Visa).

The UK Student Visa allows international students to come to the UK to study a full-time course at a licensed student sponsor (usually a university, college, or school). It is suitable for:

  • Undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs
  • Foundation and pre-sessional English courses
  • Certain professional and vocational training programs

The visa is typically granted for the duration of your course, plus some additional time before and after.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for a UK Student Visa if:

  • You are 16 years or older
  • You have an unconditional offer from a UK institution with a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
  • You meet the English language requirement
  • You can prove you have enough funds to support yourself and pay for your course
  • You intend to leave the UK after your studies, unless switching to a graduate or work visa

Key Requirements

To be eligible, you must demonstrate:

A. CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) – Issued by your UK education provider. This document includes details of your course, tuition fees, and unique reference number.

B. Financial Maintenance – You must show you have enough money to cover: Tuition fees for the first year, and Living expenses (currently £1,334 per month for London, or £1,023/month outside London for up to 9 months)

C. English Language Ability – You must pass an approved English language test (IELTS, SELT, etc.) unless you’re from a majority English-speaking country or have prior UK academic qualifications.

D. Genuine Student Intent – You must prove that you are a genuine student, with a clear intention to study and return home (unless eligible for post-study work).

Documents Required

  • Valid passport
  • CAS number from your UK education provider
  • Proof of funds (bank statements, sponsorship letter, etc.)
  • English language test results
  • Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if from a listed country)
  • Academic qualifications (transcripts, certificates)
  • Parental consent (if under 18)

Your solicitor will help review and format your documents to meet UKVI standards and avoid mistakes that can lead to refusals.

How to Apply for a Student Visa

Step 1: Get Your CAS
Once you receive an unconditional offer and accept it, your education provider will issue a CAS.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Apply for the Student Visa online via the UK Government website. You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

Step 4: Biometric Appointment
Attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and a photograph.

Step 5: Submit Documents
Upload or submit your documents for review.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision
Processing typically takes 3 weeks, or faster if priority service is available.

After You Arrive

  • With a UK Student Visa, you can:
  • Study your chosen course
  • Work part-time during term (up to 20 hours/week)
  • Work full-time during holidays
  • Bring dependants (if studying at postgraduate level for 9+ months)
  • Apply for the Graduate Route Visa after graduation (2–3 years of post-study work)

Common Reasons for Refusal

  • Insufficient or incorrectly formatted financial evidence
  • Low English language test scores
  • Failure to demonstrate genuine student status
  • Invalid or expired CAS
  • Gaps or contradictions in academic history

A qualified solicitor can help you avoid these pitfalls by ensuring your application is well-structured and properly documented.

How We Help

Applying for a UK Student Visa is a major step—and one that requires accuracy, preparation, and strategic planning. We will connect you with a specialist UK immigration solicitor who can:

  • Review your offer, CAS, and eligibility
  • Ensure your documents meet UKVI requirements
  • Assist with your online visa application
  • Help with dependants’ applications (spouse, children)
  • Guide you on working rights and switching to other visa routes later
  • Support you in case of visa delays, refusals, or reapplications

We Help Solve Your Legal Issues

Feel free to book your appointment today with us.

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