UK Student Visa

• Family Inclusion: The family members (dependents) can join the student in the UK under certain conditions especially if the student is studying post-graduation.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age Requirement: Applicants must be 16 years or older. There are some specific rules for the students that come under the age of 16 or 17 and parental consent is also required for those who are under 18.
• English Proficiency: Students must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved English test (e.g. IELTS) unless exempt due to nationality or previous study in English. The required score depends on the level of the course.
• Sponsorship: Applicants must be accepted by UK educational institution that holds a Student Sponsor license. The institution will issue a CAS which is required for the application of the visa.
• Health Insurance: Students should pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as it is the part of their visa application to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
• Financial Capability: Applicants must provide the evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses and accommodation. The amount changes according to the location of the educational institution and living arrangements of the applicant.
• Genuine Student Requirement: Students must demonstrate that they genuinely intend to study in the UK and have the ability to complete the course. The UK Home Office may request additional evidence or conduct an interview to assess this.
• Public Interest & Character Checks: All applicants must meet the public interest requirements and provide evidence of good character. A criminal record check may be required.

Application Process

1. Step 1: Acceptance to UK Institution: Applicants must secure a place at a licensed UK educational institution which will issue a CAS. The CAS is a unique reference number which confirm the details of the course and institution.
2. Step 2: Necessary Documents: The students should gather all necessary documents before applying that includes:
• Passport or Travel Document
• CAS reference number
• Proof of funds (bank statements or sponsorship letters)
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Proof of ties to the home country (e.g., employment letter or property deeds)
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
• Parental consent (if under 18)
3. Step 3: Apply Online: The visa application must be submitted online via the UK government website. Applicants will need to pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
4. Step 4: Biometrics & Additional Information: Students are required to attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center to provide fingerprints and have their photograph taken. In some cases, additional information or an interview may be requested.
5. Step 5: Await Decision: Visa processing times vary by country but most decisions are made within 3 weeks. Students can track the status of their application online.