All you need to know about the UK Student Visa Process

Generally, international students enter the UK on a “Tier-4 Visa” for a full-time study program. You should apply for a UK study visa through their website. You can apply for a visa up to three months before your course begins. However, because the process is lengthy, begin early to ensure that you have enough time to correctly finish your application.

The UK awards student visas according to a points-based system. To obtain the required number of points, you will need supporting information and documents. Generally, this entails the following:
1) Passport details and a recent photograph of UK Visa approved size
2) A ‘Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies’ (CAS) from your institution
3) Proof of proficiency in the English language
4) Proof that you have the financial means to support yourself for the duration of your study. (Your tuition fee + Cost of Living)

1) Short-Term / Study-visit Visa
Students undertaking a short program of study may apply for a short-term / study-visit visa. This applies to students planning on studying English language or training courses, or pursuing a short research period as part of a study abroad program.
- A short-term / study-visit visa is valid for up to six months (INR 19,369)
- Once it expires it cannot be extended. This visa does not permit you to work in the UK or study at a state-funded higher education institution.

2) Tier 4 (General) Student Visa
Students aged 16 and older who have been offered a place on a longer-term course at an accredited institution may apply for the Tier 4 general student visa. It allows you to stay for a longer period of time than a short-term visa. It also permits the holder to work most jobs, and to extend the visa should you choose to study at a higher level.
- The visa costs INR 36,238, and if you are staying for longer than 6 months you will be required to pay a 150 GBP ‘health surcharge’ in order to gain access to the National Health Service.
- Once you’ve made your online application, you will have to submit your biometric details and information in your home country for the UK government to begin processing your application. Find your local visa application center where you will submit your biometrics here.
- The UK government has published a detailed guide on what is required for the Tier- 4 student visa application, including documents to submit and the financial resources you will require to have your student visa approved.

*If you utilize the priority service, the additional fee is INR 22,809, and the fee for the super-priority service is INR 99,116. There will be an extra payment for the appointment itself if you visit an upgraded or premium service location (premium UKVACS service). This will be specified on your application form and should range between £60 and £125, depending on the day and time of your consultation*

3) Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa
Students aged 17 or under who wish to attend an independent school in the United Kingdom may apply for the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 years, depending on your age and the length of your course. It also permits those aged 16 or over to work part-time during term, and full-time during holidays.

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