Student Visas UK

If you are considering applying for a Student visa to study in the UK, our Student visa lawyers in Hayes, London can guide you through every step of the process.

Applying for a Student visa can be a complex and overwhelming process, especially when navigating the complexities of UK immigration regulations. That's why we are here to assist you every step of the way, simplifying the application process and providing expert advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

If you have any enquiries or require help with your UK student visa application, call our immigration lawyer at 0203 959 7755 or email us at info@moeenco.com. Our dedicated team of UK immigration solicitors is ready to assist you with any aspect of your UK student visa application process.

Table of Contents

1. What is a Student visa UK?
2. Eligibility requirements for Student visa UK
3. Financial requirements for Student visa
4. English language requirement for Student visa
5. Courses you can study
6. Documents required for student visa application
7. Student Visa Application Process: How to Apply
8. UK Student visa processing time
9. Visa application using super priority service
10. How can our immigration solicitors help with your UK visa applications?
11. How much does an immigration solicitor charge for a UK visa application?
12. Frequently asked questions
13. Contact immigration solicitors in London

What is a Student visa UK?

A UK Student visa, previously known as a Tier 4 (General) student visa, allows international students to come and study in the United Kingdom.

Student visa is designed for students aged 16 and above who wish to pursue higher education and study full-time in the UK for longer than six months, such as undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.

If you’re 16 or 17 and you want to study at an independent school in the UK, you may be eligible for a Child Student visa instead.

Eligibility requirements for Student visa UK

To apply for a UK Student visa, you must meet certain eligibility criteria.

• You must be a genuine student.
• You must have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor.
• You must have a valid CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).
• You must have enough money to cover tuition fees and living expenses in the UK.
• You will need to demonstrate your proficiency in the English language.

Financial requirements for Student visa

As part of the student visa requirements, you will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the UK. This is to ensure that you can cover your living expenses, tuition fees, and any additional costs. The exact financial capacity required may depend on your course, location, and duration of study.

You need enough money to pay for your course for 1 academic year (up to 9 months). The amount you need to pay will be on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

You'll also need to show you have enough money to support yourself and it depends on where you will be studying. You'll need either:

• £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London
• £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London

English language requirement for Student visa

As English is the primary language of instruction in UK universities, you will need to demonstrate your proficiency in the English language. This can be done by providing the results of an approved English language test, such as the IELTS or TOEFL.

You must prove you can read, write, speak and understand English to a certain level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.

• Degree level or above: Equivalent to CEFR level B2
• Below degree level: CEFR level B1

Courses you can study

You can do one of the following courses:

• A full-time course leading to a qualification that’s below degree level (RQF level 3, 4 or 5) with at least 15 hours a week of organised daytime study
• A full-time course leading to a qualification that’s degree level or above (RQF level 6, 7 or 8)
• A full-time course at degree level or above (RQF level 6,7 or 8) that’s equivalent to a UK higher education course and is being delivered as part of a longer course overseas
• A part-time course leading to a qualification that’s above degree level (RQF level 7 or above)
• A recognised foundation programme for postgraduate doctors or dentists
• An English language course at level B2 or above in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

Documents required for student visa application

When you apply for your Student visa you must provide:

• Your valid passport or other travel documents to prove your identity.
• Proof of acceptance into a UK educational institution.
• Proof of accommodation such as tenancy agreement.
• Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses in the UK.
• Evidence of your knowledge of the English language such as English language test result.
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable).

Student Visa Application Process: How to Apply

Once you have determined your eligibility, it's time to start the UK Student visa application process.

Below is a step-by-step process for applying for a student visa in the United Kingdom. It is essential to follow the correct procedures and meet all the requirements to ensure a successful application.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all the required documents for your student visa application. The documents required for your student visa application may include your passport, proof of acceptance onto a course, evidence of English language proficiency, financial documents, and health insurance details. It is important to carefully prepare and verify all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 2: Complete the Online Student Visa Application Form

Once you have collected all the necessary documents, you can proceed with the online application. The application form will require you to provide personal details, information about your chosen course, and documentation to support your eligibility for a student visa. Take your time to fill out the application accurately and ensure that you have all the required information ready.

Step 3: Pay the Student Visa Application Fee

Pay the applicable Student visa application fee, which varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your country of residence. Keep a record of the payment confirmation, as you will need it for your application.

Step 4: Book and Attend a Biometrics Appointment

After submitting your online application and paying the fee, you will need to schedule a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, you will provide your fingerprints and have your photograph taken. Biometrics are essential for identity verification and are a mandatory part of the student visa application process.

Step 5: Submit Your Supporting Documents

Following your biometrics appointment, you will need to submit your supporting documents. This can usually be done either by uploading them online or by submitting them in person at a Visa Application Centre. Ensure that you include all the required documents and follow the guidelines provided by UK Visas and Immigration.

Step 6: Receive Your Decision

After completing the visa application process, you will receive a decision on your application. If your application is approved, you will be issued a visa vignette allowing you to enter and study in the UK. If your application is refused, you will be provided with reasons for the refusal and any available options for appeal.

Immigration rules, requirements, and procedures can change, so it's advisable to consult with an immigration solicitor for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the UK Student visa application process.

UK Student visa processing time

Student visa applications submitted from outside the UK using standard service are currently taking an average of 3 weeks to process. However, you may be eligible to use priority service to get a faster decision.

If the Student visa application is made from inside the UK, the Home Office generally takes up to 8 weeks to make the decision.

Frequently asked questions