Student Visa UK Guide

The UK Student Visa is the primary immigration route for international students wishing to study in the United Kingdom for more than six months. Formally replacing the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa in October 2020, it sits within the UK’s points-based immigration system and allows eligible applicants to undertake an approved course of study at a licensed education provider. The visa also grants limited rights to work, bring eligible dependants, and in some cases switch to other visa categories after completing studies.

What this article is about
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the UK Student Visa. It explains the eligibility criteria under the Immigration Rules, the step-by-step application process, and the visa’s conditions relating to work, dependants, and study. It also examines post-study immigration options, including the Graduate Visa and switching to work-based routes. The content is designed for prospective students, education providers, and advisers, with a focus on ensuring legal compliance and avoiding common pitfalls.

The Student Visa is a key part of the UK’s higher education and international student policy, enabling institutions to attract global talent and supporting the UK’s reputation as a leading destination for study. However, it operates under strict rules set by the Home Office, and applications are subject to detailed eligibility and credibility checks. Applicants must provide evidence of acceptance onto a qualifying course, demonstrate financial capability, meet English language standards, and satisfy other immigration requirements such as tuberculosis testing where applicable.

Unlike short-term study routes, the Student Visa provides broader rights, including limited part-time work during term time and full-time work during official holiday periods for eligible students. It can also lead to longer-term stay options, such as the Graduate Visa, which allows two to three years of post-study work in the UK depending on the level of qualification obtained.

By understanding the requirements, obligations, and opportunities of the Student Visa, applicants can prepare a strong and compliant application, while education providers can ensure they meet their sponsorship duties and maintain compliance with their Sponsor Licence obligations.

Section A: Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a UK Student Visa, applicants must meet the criteria set out in the Immigration Rules. These requirements are designed to ensure that only genuine students are granted entry and that they are adequately prepared, financially and academically, to undertake their studies. Meeting each criterion is essential for the application to be approved, and failure to satisfy even one can result in refusal.

1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

A key requirement is the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), issued by a UK education provider that holds a valid Student Sponsor Licence.

• Definition and purpose: The CAS is an electronic record containing details of the course, the institution, and the applicant’s personal information. It is issued after the applicant has been offered a place on a qualifying course and has accepted that offer.
• Validity period: The CAS is valid for six months from the date of issue. The visa application must be submitted within this period.
• Role of the sponsor: Only institutions licensed by the Home Office as Student Sponsors can issue a CAS. These sponsors must ensure the course meets the immigration requirements and that the applicant meets the admission criteria.

The Home Office will cross-check the CAS against its database when assessing the application, and any inconsistencies or errors can lead to delays or refusal.

2. Course Requirements

The course must be at an eligible level of study and delivered by an approved provider.

• Eligible courses: This generally includes full-time courses leading to a qualification at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 3 or above, such as degrees, postgraduate qualifications, certain diploma courses, pre-sessional English courses, and recognised foundation programmes.
• Approved education providers: The course must be taught at an institution on the official Register of Student Sponsors.
• English language requirement: Applicants must meet the minimum English language standard for their course level, usually confirmed through an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT), academic qualification taught in English, or proof of nationality from an exempt country.

Special rules apply for those studying below degree level, including additional work restrictions and a maximum study cap.

3. Financial Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate they have enough funds to pay for their tuition fees and living expenses in the UK.

• Maintenance funds: As of July 2025, the financial requirement is £1,334 per month for courses in London and £1,023 per month for courses outside London, for up to nine months, plus any outstanding tuition fees for the first academic year.
• Acceptable evidence: Bank statements, building society passbooks, student loan letters, or official financial sponsorship letters. Funds must have been held for at least 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the application date.
• Exemptions: Students who have been living in the UK with valid immigration permission for 12 months or more before the application are generally exempt from meeting the maintenance requirement.

Failure to meet the exact evidential requirements for financial proof is one of the most common reasons for refusal.

4. Other Eligibility Factors

• Tuberculosis (TB) testing: Applicants from certain listed countries must provide a valid TB test certificate from an approved clinic.
• Age restrictions: Applicants must be 16 years or older. Students aged 16 or 17 require parental consent if applying independently.
• Genuine Student requirement: The Home Office may conduct credibility interviews to assess the applicant’s academic intentions, financial ability, and awareness of the course and institution.

Section Summary
Eligibility for the UK Student Visa hinges on satisfying several interconnected requirements: securing a valid CAS from a licensed education provider, enrolling on an eligible course, meeting strict financial thresholds, and complying with other conditions such as TB testing and credibility assessments. The Home Office applies these requirements rigorously, and a well-prepared application will address each criterion in detail with the correct supporting evidence.

Section B: Application Process

The UK Student Visa application process is structured and evidence-driven, with defined steps and deadlines that must be followed precisely. Whether applying from overseas or within the UK, understanding the procedure helps reduce the risk of refusal and unnecessary delays. All applications are made online via the Home Office system, with biometric enrolment and document submission forming key stages in the process.

1. When and Where to Apply

Applicants can apply for a Student Visa from:

• Overseas: Applications can be made up to six months before the course start date listed on the CAS. Processing times for overseas applications are typically around three weeks but can vary by country and seasonal demand.
• In-country (switching or extension): Applications from within the UK can usually be made up to three months before the course start date and before the current visa expires. Switching is not permitted from certain categories, including Visitor visas and Short-term Student visas.
• Application timing: The timing must align with the CAS validity period and course start date. Late applications risk being refused if they cannot be decided before the course commences.

2. Supporting Documents

The Home Office requires a specific set of documents to assess the application. Common requirements include:

• Valid passport or travel document showing identity and nationality
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number
• Proof of financial requirement (bank statements, loan confirmation, or sponsorship letter)
• English language evidence (SELT results or exempt qualification proof)
• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate if applicable
• Parental consent and proof of relationship for applicants aged 16 or 17
• Translations for any documents not in English or Welsh, prepared by a certified translator meeting Home Office requirements

Missing or incorrect documentation is one of the leading causes of refusal, so applicants should carefully check against the current official list.

3. Application Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

• Application fee: £490 per applicant, whether applying from overseas or within the UK.
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year of the visa for most applicants, payable upfront at the time of application. The IHS grants access to the NHS during the visa holder’s stay.
• Dependants: Dependants pay the same visa fee and IHS rate as the main applicant.

The total cost will depend on the course length and whether dependants are included.

4. Biometric Enrolment and Identity Verification

Applicants must complete an identity verification stage:

• Visa application centre (VAC): Applicants outside the UK usually book an appointment at a VAC to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
• UKVCAS centre: Applicants within the UK provide biometrics through the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS).
• Digital identity verification: Some applicants may be able to use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan their identity document and upload a photograph, removing the need for an in-person appointment.

Section Summary
Applying for a UK Student Visa is a multi-step process involving online submission, precise supporting documentation, payment of fees and IHS, and biometric enrolment. The process varies slightly depending on whether the application is made from overseas or within the UK, but accuracy, timing, and compliance with the Immigration Rules are crucial in all cases.

Section C: Conditions and Work Rights

The Student Visa grants certain rights and imposes specific restrictions that applicants must understand and comply with throughout their stay. These conditions are set out in the Immigration Rules and are designed to ensure that the primary purpose of the visa holder’s stay is to study. Breaches of these conditions can lead to visa curtailment, enforcement action, and adverse consequences for future immigration applications.

1. Work Permissions During Studies

The Student Visa allows some students to work in the UK, but the scope of these rights depends on the type of course and the sponsor institution’s status.

• During term time: Most full-time degree-level students at licensed Higher Education Providers can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Students below degree level are usually limited to 10 hours per week.
• During vacations: Students can work full-time during official vacation periods as defined by their institution.
• After course completion: Eligible students may work full-time from the date they have officially completed their course (not the graduation date) until their visa expires.
• Restrictions: Students cannot be self-employed, engage in business activity, work as a doctor or dentist in training (unless holding a recognised UK degree in medicine or dentistry), work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach, or take a permanent full-time job that would normally require a work visa.

Failure to comply with these work limits can lead to visa cancellation and may affect future immigration applications.

2. Dependants

Not all Student Visa holders can bring dependants to the UK. The rules changed significantly in 2024.

• Eligible applicants: From 1 January 2024, only students studying at the doctoral level (PhD or other Level 8 qualification) or on certain government-sponsored courses can apply to bring dependants. Students who applied for their Student Visa before 1 January 2024 may still bring dependants under transitional rules.
• Dependants’ rights: Eligible dependants may work in the UK without restriction (except as a professional sportsperson) and can also study.
• Financial requirement: Applicants must demonstrate additional funds to support each dependant, calculated based on the study location.

Dependants’ visas will normally end on the same date as the main applicant’s visa.

3. Study Conditions

• Approved provider: Visa holders must study at the institution named on their CAS unless they apply for permission to change.
• Changing course: Any course change must meet eligibility requirements and be reported to the Home Office. Changing to a lower-level course or institution without permission can breach visa conditions.
• Maximum study limits: For below degree-level courses, there is usually a maximum period of two years’ study on the Student Visa.

4. Visa Curtailment and Breach of Conditions

The Home Office can curtail (shorten) a Student Visa if:

• The student stops attending their course
• The sponsoring institution loses its Student Sponsor Licence
• The student breaches work or study restrictions
• Fraud or deception is discovered in the application

Curtailment can result in a 60-day period to leave the UK or make a new application. Serious breaches may lead to entry bans.

Section Summary
The Student Visa offers valuable opportunities for work and study, but these rights are carefully regulated. Understanding work hour limits, dependant eligibility, course restrictions, and compliance obligations is essential to maintaining lawful status. Breaching visa conditions can have severe and lasting immigration consequences, so students should be proactive in understanding and following the rules.

Section D: Post-Study Options

Completing a course on a UK Student Visa can open pathways to further stay in the UK, whether for work, further study, or eventual settlement. The post-study immigration options available depend on the type of course completed, the level of qualification, and compliance with visa conditions during studies.

1. Graduate Visa

The Graduate Visa allows eligible students to remain in the UK for a period after completing their course, providing the opportunity to work without sponsorship.

• Eligibility: Students must have successfully completed an eligible course at degree level or above with a licensed Student Sponsor and have studied in the UK for the required minimum period (at least 12 months for courses longer than 12 months, or the full course length for shorter courses).
• Duration: Two years for most courses; three years for doctoral-level qualifications.
• Work rights: No restriction on type or hours of work, except as a professional sportsperson or sports coach.
• Application timing: Must apply from within the UK before the Student Visa expires.

2. Switching to a Work Visa

Many students choose to switch into work-based immigration categories after study.

• Skilled Worker Visa: Requires a job offer from a licensed sponsor in an eligible role meeting minimum salary thresholds. Graduates benefit from lower salary thresholds compared to other applicants.
• Global Talent Visa: For individuals recognised as leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology.
• Other routes: Options may include the Scale-up Visa, Innovator Founder Visa, or routes based on family circumstances.

Switching to these categories usually requires applying before the expiry of the Student or Graduate Visa.

3. Settlement and Long Residence

While time spent on a Student Visa does not directly count towards settlement under most work routes, it can count towards the 10-year continuous lawful residence requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Maintaining lawful immigration status throughout studies is essential for this purpose.

4. Further Study

Students can apply to extend their Student Visa for further study if they meet eligibility requirements, including academic progression rules. Extensions must normally be made from within the UK and before the current visa expires.

Section Summary
Post-study options provide flexibility for international students who wish to continue their journey in the UK. From the Graduate Visa to work-based immigration categories and potential settlement, these pathways reward careful planning and compliance during the initial study period. Understanding the timing, requirements, and strategic choices available is essential for maximising post-study opportunities.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get a UK Student Visa?

Overseas applications usually take around three weeks to process after biometrics are enrolled. In-country applications generally take eight weeks. Processing times may be longer during peak periods or if additional checks are required.

2. Can I work full-time on a Student Visa?

You can work full-time only during official holiday periods or after your course has officially ended. During term time, work is limited to 20 hours per week for most degree-level students and 10 hours for below degree-level students.

3. Can my family join me on a Student Visa?

Only certain students can bring dependants — those studying at doctoral level or on eligible government-sponsored courses. Transitional rules apply for students who applied before 1 January 2024.

4. Do I need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?

Yes. The current rate is £1,035 per year for each applicant, payable at the time of application. This grants access to the NHS during your stay.

5. What happens if my sponsor loses its licence?

If your sponsor loses its Student Sponsor Licence, the Home Office may curtail your visa. You may be given 60 days to find a new sponsor or leave the UK.

6. Can I extend my Student Visa?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements, including academic progression rules. Extensions must usually be applied for before your current visa expires.

7. Will a Student Visa lead directly to settlement?

No, but time spent on a Student Visa can count towards the 10-year continuous lawful residence route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Conclusion

The UK Student Visa offers international students the opportunity to study at world-class institutions while benefiting from limited work rights and, in some cases, the ability to bring dependants. However, it operates under strict eligibility criteria and compliance requirements set by the Home Office. Meeting the financial, academic, and English language requirements, applying on time with the correct documentation, and observing visa conditions are all critical for a successful stay in the UK.

By understanding the rules in detail — from the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to post-study immigration options — students can maximise the opportunities offered by the visa. Education providers also play a vital role in supporting compliance and ensuring their sponsored students remain eligible and engaged. With proper preparation and adherence to the Immigration Rules, the Student Visa can be a gateway to academic success and future opportunities in the UK.

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Gill Laing

Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law, Tax, Human Resources, Immigration & Employment Law. Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing & Content Agency for the Professional Services Sector.

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