Student Visa
Study at a UK-licensed education provider aged 16+.
Fee
£565 (outside UK) / £721 (inside UK)
IHS
£776 / year
Duration
Course length + up to 4 months
Processing
3 weeks
Overview
For students offered an unconditional place on an eligible course at a licensed Student sponsor. From January 2024, most taught Masters students cannot bring dependants; this remains in force.
Eligibility
- Unconditional offer with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor
- English language: B2 for degree-level courses, B1 below degree
- Maintenance funds: £1,483/month (London) or £1,136/month (outside London), up to 9 months
- Funds held for 28 consecutive days ending no more than 31 days before applying
- Parental consent if under 18
- Credibility interview may be required to demonstrate genuine intent
Required documents
- Valid passport
- CAS reference number (valid 6 months)
- Bank statements showing maintenance funds held for 28 days
- Academic qualifications listed on your CAS
- Approved English language test certificate (if required by sponsor)
- TB test results if from a listed country
- ATAS certificate for sensitive research/science subjects
How to apply
- 1Accept an offer & receive CASYour institution issues a CAS reference once you accept an unconditional place.
- 2Prepare finances & EnglishHold maintenance funds for 28 days; take an approved SELT if needed.
- 3Apply onlineApply up to 6 months before course start (outside UK) or 3 months (inside).
- 4BiometricsBook a Visa Application Centre appointment for fingerprints and photograph.
- 5Receive eVisaFrom 2026, status is held digitally — link your passport to your UKVI account on arrival.
Key notes
- Taught Masters students cannot bring dependants (except government-sponsored courses of 6+ months).
- Students can work up to 20 hours/week during term time (degree-level).
- Switching to Skilled Worker inside the UK is permitted after course completion.