Extending Your Student Visa

As a UK Student visa holder, you may need to extend your student visa for various reasons, such as continuing your course or starting a new one.

In this guide, discover how international students can extend their UK student visa, eligibility criteria, required documents, and step-by-step process.

If you are considering renewing or extending your Student visa, our Student visa lawyers in Hayes, London can guide you through every step of the process.

For legal advice and assistance with your UK Student visa extension application, call our immigration lawyer at 0203 959 7755 or email us at info@moeenco.com.

Table of Contents

What is a UK Student visa extension?

A UK Student visa extension allows international students already studying in the UK to extend their stay to complete their course or pursue a new one.

You can apply as early as 3 months before your new course starts. Ensure you apply before your current visa expires, and your new course must begin within 28 days of its expiration.

UK Student visa extension requirements 2024

To be eligible to apply for a UK Student visa extension, you must:

• hold a valid UK student visa (formerly Tier 4 or the current Student Visa).
• apply before your current visa expires.
• have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor.
• show that your studies are at a higher academic level than your current course.
• show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs during the extended period.
• meet the English language requirements (if applicable).

What documents do you need for a Student visa extension?

To apply for a UK Student visa extension, you will typically need the following documents:

• Your valid passport
• Your BRP card, if you have one
• CAS from your educational institution
• Proof of financial stability (e.g. bank statements)
• Academic qualifications
• Proof of English language skills (if needed)

How to apply for a UK Student visa extension?

The application process for a UK student visa extension involves several steps. Here's a breakdown:

Step 1: Obtain a CAS from Your Educational Institution

Before you start, your school must give you a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies). This proves you're a student and is key for your student visa extension application.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

You'll need to gather several documents for your application. These include:

• Your valid passport.
• Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP Card), if you have one.
• CAS from your educational institution.
• Proof of financial stability (e.g. bank statements).
• Academic qualifications.
• Proof of English language skills (if needed).

Step 3: Submit Your Online Application

You must apply online through the UK government's visa portal to extend your UK Student visa.

Fill out the online application form with accurate and up-to-date information about yourself and upload all the supporting documents in an acceptable format.

Step 4: Pay Student Visa Application and IHS Fees

Along with your Student visa extension application fee, you'll also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for NHS access.

If you require a decision on your visa application urgently, you may be eligible to use the "Super Priority Service" or the "Priority Service", which offers faster processing times for an additional fee.

Step 5: Attend a Biometric Appointment

You’ll need to book and attend a Biometric appointment at a UKVCAS centre to provide biometric information including fingerprints and photographs.

Step 6: Wait for the Decision

After applying and attending your biometric appointment, wait for a decision. Standard processing takes about 8 weeks. Faster services are available for a fee.

6 Steps to extending your Student visa (summary)

Here’s a summary of the 6 steps to extending your UK student visa as mentioned above:

1. Obtain a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from your institution.
2. Prepare necessary documents, including passport, financial proof, and academic qualifications.
3. Apply online via the UK government's visa application portal.
4. Pay the visa application fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
5. Attend a biometric appointment for fingerprinting and photographs.
6. Wait for your visa decision, typically within 8 weeks, or faster with priority services.

How long does it take to process a Student visa extension?

The student visa extension application processing time depends on the service you choose:

• Standard service: Up to 8 weeks.
• Priority service: 5 working days.
• Super-priority service: 24 hours.

It’s important to apply as early as possible to avoid delays.

How much is the Student visa extension fee?

The UK Student visa extension fee is £490 for the standard service. If you need a faster decision, you can use the "Super Priority Service" or the "Priority Service", which offers faster processing times for an additional fee.

Additionally, you'll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) -  check how much you'll have to pay

What happens next after submitting your Student visa extension application?

If your student visa extension application is approved, you'll get a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). This shows your new visa details. Keep it safe as proof of your legal stay.

If your student visa is not extended, you might appeal or reapply. This depends on the reason for refusal. Make sure your application is correct to avoid delays.

What if your Student visa extension application is rejected?

If your application is refused, you might:

• Reapply: if you think you missed something.
• Appeal: if you believe the decision was unfair.

The refusal letter will explain why and if you can appeal or reapply. Always aim for a complete and accurate application to reduce the risk of refusal.

Tips for a successful Student visa extension application

1. Apply early to avoid last-minute stress. Start at least three months before your visa ends.
2. Ensure your financial evidence is strong. Show you can cover tuition and living costs.
3. Double-check your documents. Missing or wrong info can cause delays or refusal. Review everything carefully before submitting.
4. Seek expert advice if unsure. Immigration lawyers can help.

Can I switch to another visa category after my studies?

Yes, you might be able to switch to another visa category. For example:

• Graduate visa (post-study work visa) if you want to stay and work in the UK after finishing your degree.
• Skilled Worker visa if you have a job offer from a UK employer.

Each visa category has its own rules. Research your options and talk to our immigration solicitors for expert legal advice.

How can an immigration solicitor assist with a visa extension application?

Contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors for assistance

If you need professional help and advice, contact us at Moeen & Co. Solicitors. Call us on 0203 959 7755 to book a consultation. Let us guide you through the UK Student visa extension application process smoothly and efficiently.

FAQs about visa extension application