UK Student Visa FAQs 2025
What is a Student visa?
A Student visa allows you to study in the UK at a licensed education provider. You must be 16 or over and have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor.
How much money do I need?
You need to show you have enough money to pay for your course fees and living costs. For London, you need £1,334 per month (up to 9 months). Outside London, you need £1,023 per month.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, but with restrictions:
- Degree level: 20 hours per week during term
- Below degree level: 10 hours per week during term
- Full-time during holidays for both
What documents do I need?
- Valid passport
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Financial documents
- English language qualifications
- Academic qualifications mentioned in CAS
How long can I stay?
- Degree level: Up to 5 years
- Below degree level: Up to 2 years
- Postgraduate research: Up to 8 years
Can I extend my Student visa?
Yes, you can extend if you're:
- Currently on a Student visa
- Studying with a licensed sponsor
- Can prove academic progress
- Meet financial requirements
What are the visa fees?
- Application fee: £490
- Healthcare surcharge: £776 per year
- Priority service (optional): £500
How long does it take to process a UK student visa?
The standard processing time for a UK student visa is approximately three weeks, or 15 working days. It's advisable to apply well in advance to ensure you receive a decision before your intended travel date.
Do I need a visa for part-time studies in the UK?
Yes, a visa is required for part-time studies in the UK. However, holding a part-time study visa limits your ability to work in the UK and switch to a full-time student visa.
Am I eligible for the Post-Study Work visa and Graduate Immigration Route?
Yes, international students who enroll in courses starting from September are eligible for the Graduate Immigration Route. This allows you to stay in the UK for two years after graduation under a post-study work visa.
When should I apply for my UK student visa?
You can apply for a UK student visa up to six months before your course starts. However, you cannot submit your application more than three months before the course start date listed on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Can I use my CAS number more than once?
No, each CAS number is unique to a single visa application and cannot be reused. CAS numbers are valid for six months from the date they are issued. If your visa application is refused, you should contact your educational institution for further assistance.
Do I need to collect my Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card upon arrival?
Yes, all international students must collect their BRP card when they arrive in the UK. You should collect it within 10 days of your arrival under normal circumstances.
How do I apply for a UK student visa?
To apply for a UK student visa, fill out the online application form carefully and provide all required supporting documents, including financial evidence. After submitting the application online, you will need to attend an appointment at a visa application centre for a biometric interview.
What are the required monthly living costs for a UK student visa application?
You must demonstrate funds to cover your living costs while studying in the UK:
- £1,334 per month for courses in London
- £1,023 per month for courses outside London
Who qualifies for the Graduate Immigration Route?
Eligibility for the Graduate Immigration Route requires successful completion of a degree at undergraduate level or above at a recognized UK higher education institution. This includes bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
What are the application requirements for the Graduate Immigration Route?
Applicants must provide proof of identity, evidence of their completed degree, and confirmation from their university that they have successfully finished their course. You can apply once your university has notified the Home Office of your course completion; you don't need to wait for graduation or your degree certificate.
How long can I stay in the UK without a short-term study visa?
If you're pursuing an English language course lasting between six and eleven months, you can apply for a Short-term Study visa, which allows you to stay in the UK for the duration of the course. For courses shorter than six months, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals do not need a visa.
Can I bring dependents with me to the UK?
Starting from January 2024, international students will generally not be allowed to bring dependents on their student visas unless they are enrolled in a postgraduate research program. Additionally, after July 17, students cannot switch to a work visa before completing their studies.
Do I need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate?
If you're planning to study certain sensitive subjects at the master's or research level, you may need an ATAS certificate. Check with your Higher Education Institution to determine if your course requires this certificate.
Is the Graduate Immigration Route extendable?
No, the Graduate Immigration Route is not extendable. It is granted for a fixed period of two years (or three years for PhD graduates). However, you can switch to other visa categories, such as a Skilled Worker visa, if you meet the eligibility criteria within this time.
Can I switch to other work visas after the Graduate Immigration Route?
Yes, after your time on the Graduate Immigration Route, you can switch to other work visas like the Skilled Worker visa, provided you have a job offer from an employer who is a licensed sponsor.
Can I switch to the Partner Route while on a Graduate Visa?
Yes, if you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone settled in the UK, you can apply to switch to a Family visa under the Partner Route.
Can I apply for the Graduate Immigration Route from outside the UK?
No, you must be physically present in the UK to apply for the Graduate Immigration Route. Applications from outside the UK are not accepted.
Can I work as a freelancer or be self-employed on the Graduate Immigration Route?
Yes, the Graduate Immigration Route allows you to work flexibly, including freelancing and self-employment. You can engage in any work except as a professional sportsperson.
What are the benefits of the Graduate Immigration Route?
The Graduate Immigration Route allows you to gain valuable work experience in the UK, explore various career opportunities, and potentially transition to other long-term visa categories. You can also travel abroad and return to the UK during this period.
Can I pursue further studies with a Graduate Visa?
You can study while on a Graduate Visa, but only for courses that do not qualify for a Student visa. If you wish to enroll in a program that requires a Student visa, you will need to switch back to a Student visa. Additionally, studying certain subjects may require an ATAS certificate.
Do I need a visa to study at a UK university?
Yes, if you're studying a course that lasts longer than six months, you'll need a Student visa. For courses shorter than six months, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals do not need a visa. Students from the Republic of Ireland do not require a visa regardless of the course length.
What are the costs associated with the Student visa?
The Student visa application fee is £363 if applying from outside the UK. Additionally, you'll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £470 per year of your stay. This grants you access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) during your studies.
How long does the visa application process take?
The visa application process typically takes around three weeks from the date of your biometric appointment. It's recommended to apply at least six weeks before your intended travel date to accommodate any potential delays.
Can I study in the UK for one semester or participate in an exchange program?
Yes, you can study in the UK for a semester or participate in an exchange program. Check if your home university has partnerships with UK institutions. For courses less than six months, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals typically do not need a visa.
Can international students work while studying in the UK?
Yes, students on a Student visa can work while studying:
- Up to 20 hours per week during term time for degree-level students
- Full-time during holidays and vacation periods
Can I stay and work in the UK after completing my studies?
Yes, after completing a degree, you can apply for the Graduate Immigration Route, which allows you to stay in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates) to work or look for work.
Do EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens need a visa to visit the UK?
No, EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can visit the UK for up to six months without a visa. This is applicable for tourism, short courses, and visiting friends or family.
Do these changes affect UK nationals living in EU or EEA countries or Switzerland?
UK nationals residing in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland can still qualify for 'home fee status' if they start their studies in the UK before January 1, 2028. This means they pay the same tuition fees as UK residents and may be eligible for student loans.
Who can I contact for UK visa inquiries and travel advice in my country?
For visa information, visit the UK government's official website at GOV.UK. You can also contact your local Visa Application Centre. For travel advice, consult your local British Embassy or High Commission.