What is a UK Student Visa?

A Student Visa UK allows international students to study at an approved institution in the United Kingdom. Anyone aged 16 or over, who has been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor, can apply if they meet eligibility requirements. The visa enables full-time study, limited working rights, and a pathway to future work opportunities.

Who needs a Student Visa UK?

If you are not a British or Irish citizen, and you do not have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you must apply for a Student Visa UK to study in the country for more than six months. Short courses may be eligible for a Standard Visitor visa, but most degree and diploma courses require the full Student Visa.

What are the benefits of a Student Visa UK?

• • Study at UK-recognised institutions

  • Access to part-time work (subject to conditions)
  • Bring eligible dependants (see new 2025 rules below)

Opportunity to stay and work after graduation under the Graduate Visa

Academic eligibility

You must have an unconditional offer from a Home Office-licensed student sponsor. This is evidenced by a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number from your university or college.

English language requirements

You must prove your knowledge of English by passing an approved English language test (e.g., IELTS) at CEFR level B2 if studying at degree level, or B1 for below degree level.
Reference: gov.uk – Student Visa English requirements

Financial requirements and proof of funds

You must show you have enough money to pay for your course and support yourself in the UK:

• • Tuition fees for the first year (as shown on your CAS)

     

  • Living costs: £1,334 per month (up to 9 months) if studying in London, or £1,023 per month elsewhere

     

  • Funds must be in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before you apply

     

Acceptable financial documents for UKVI

• • Personal bank statements

     

  • Building society passbooks

     

  • Certificates of deposit

     

  • Letter from a regulated financial institution

     

Always use documents that meet UKVI requirements to avoid refusals.

How to apply for a UK Student Visa

1. Apply online at gov.uk.

    

2. Provide your CAS number from your UK institution.

    

3. Upload supporting documents (passport, financial evidence, English test results, TB test if required).

    

4. Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.

    

5. Book and attend your biometric appointment at a visa application centre.

    

Required documents for a student visa

• • Current passport or travel document

     

  • CAS statement from your UK sponsor

     

  • Proof of finances

     

  • English language evidence

     

  • Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)

     

  • Parental consent (for applicants under 18)

     

How long does it take to get a UK Student Visa?

• • Most applications are decided within 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK.

     

  • Priority and super priority services may be available at additional cost.

     

Biometric appointment and interview questions

At your appointment, you’ll provide fingerprints and a photo. Some applicants are invited to a “credibility interview” where you may be asked about your course, finances, and reasons for studying in the UK.

Application fee breakdown

• • Applying from outside the UK: £490 (as of May 2025)

  • Applying from inside the UK (extension/switch): £490

  • Fees are subject to change; always check the latest on gov.uk

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for students

• • £776 per year (as of 2025), paid upfront for the full duration of your course.

This gives access to the NHS.

Can you bring family members?

As of January 2024, only postgraduate research students (e.g. PhD) and some government-sponsored students can bring dependants (partner and/or children).

Dependants restrictions for new applicants
Most taught master’s and undergraduate students can no longer bring dependants. If you’re starting a new course, carefully check the latest gov.uk rules before making plans.

Allowed working hours during term and holidays

• • Up to 20 hours per week during term time (degree level and above)

  • Full-time work during official holidays

Restrictions and prohibited work

• • No self-employment or freelance work

  • Cannot work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer

Common rejection reasons in 2025

• • Insufficient or incorrect financial evidence 
  • Failing the English language requirement 
  • Unclear intention to study (weak interview answers) 
  • Applying with fraudulent or non-compliant documents 

Steps to take if your visa is refused

• • You may reapply or request an administrative review 
  • Understand the refusal reasons, correct your evidence, and seek legal advice if needed

Extension requirements and process

• • You can apply to extend your visa if continuing studies with your current or new sponsor
  • Apply before your current visa expires

Switching from student to work visa (Graduate/Skilled Worker Route)

• • Most students can switch to the Graduate Visa after successfully completing a degree
  • The Graduate Route allows you to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates)

Some may switch to a Skilled Worker visa if sponsored by an employer

Overview of the Graduate Route

• • Apply within the UK after completing your course
  • No job offer required at the time of application
  • Grants 2–3 years of post-study work rights

Pathways to long-term stay or work visas

• • Move from Graduate Visa to Skilled Worker Visa with a job offer from a licensed sponsor
  • Explore other routes to settlement (ILR) in the UK

Extension requirements and process

• • You can apply to extend your visa if continuing studies with your current or new sponsor
  • Apply before your current visa expires

Switching from student to work visa (Graduate/Skilled Worker Route)

• • Most students can switch to the Graduate Visa after successfully completing a degree
  • The Graduate Route allows you to stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates)

Some may switch to a Skilled Worker visa if sponsored by an employer