FAQ

To be eligible for a UK Student Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Have an unconditional offer from a course provider that is a licensed student sponsor.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
  • Show proof of sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses.
  • If you are 16 or 17 years old, obtain parental consent.
  • For applicants outside the UK: You may apply as early as six months before your course begins.
  • For applicants within the UK: Applications can be submitted up to three months before the course start date.

Since visa processing times may differ, it’s best to apply as soon as possible.

Only government-sponsored students and postgraduate research students (such as MRes, PhD, or equivalent at RQF Level 8) enrolled in courses lasting at least 9 months can bring dependents to the UK.

Please note that taught master’s students are not eligible to bring dependents.

The Student Visa application fee is £490. In addition, applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which provides access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) throughout their stay.

As of February 6, 2024, the IHS rates are:

  • Standard Rate: £1,035 per year
  • Discounted Rate: £776 per year, applicable to:
    • Students
    • Student dependants
    • Youth Mobility Scheme applicants
    • Children under 18 at the time of application

These rates apply to all visa applications submitted on or after February 6, 2024.

Example Calculation:
For a 3-year student visa: £776 × 3 = £2,328

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses:

  • Tuition Fees: Provide proof of payment or evidence showing you can pay your tuition.
  • Living Expenses: Show financial proof that you can cover your living costs, which vary based on your study location.

Additionally, the required funds must remain in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting your application.

Aenean placerat commodo erat, vitae tincidunt lectus mattis quis. Vestibulum eleifend consectetur felis, id efficitur nulla tincidunt eget. In lobortis ligula in cursus accumsan. Sed malesuada nec tor vel tristique. Maecenas elit risus, porta lobortis vehicula.

The required living costs depend on where you will be studying:

  • Studying in London: You must have £1,483 per month for up to 9 months, with a total of £13,347.
  • Studying Outside London: You need £1,136 per month for up to 9 months, totaling £10,224.

Bank Statements: The required funds must be held in your or your parent's bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying, with the statement dated no more than 31 days before your visa application.

Dependants: If you are bringing dependants (such as a spouse or children), you must provide additional financial proof:

  • In London: £845 per month for each dependant.
  • Outside London: £680 per month for each dependant.

Yes, you must show that you can speak, read, write, and understand English. This is usually demonstrated by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider.

Some exceptions may apply, such as if you have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in an English-speaking country. For more details, visit gov.uk.

Applicants from specific countries must submit a TB test certificate as part of their visa application. To check if this requirement applies to you, refer to the UK government's official list of countries.

As a Student visa holder, you may be eligible to work under the following conditions:

  • During term time:

    • Up to 20 hours per week if enrolled in a degree-level or higher course.
    • Up to 10 hours per week if studying below degree level.
  • During holidays:

    • Full-time work is usually permitted.

Keep in mind that restrictions may apply, and you should not depend on work to cover your studies.

FAQ Help Topics