Student visas and immigration

Citizens from countries in the EU, EEA and Switzerland who do not have EU settled status (or pre-settled status) require a student visa to study in the UK. Once you’ve been offered a place on a course, the course provider will advise you on how to apply for your student visa from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Student route visa: Formerly known as the Tier 4 General student visa, you need this if you want to study for a degree at university in the UK. You can apply up to six months early if you're outside of the UK, and three months in advance of your course start date if you're in the UK already.

1. Add your passport number to your UCAS application – either when you’re filling out your details, or when you’re offered a place on a course.
2. Prove your English language skills – your chosen course provider can advise you whether you need to take a UKVI approved secure English language test, or if there;s an alternative. If you are required to take a SELT this must be taken in one of the SELT centres approved by the UK Home Office. View the approved secure English language tests and test centres that meet the Home Office’s requirements.
3. Accept an unconditional offer of a place on a course – then if your university or college has a Sponsor licence, they can give you Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
4. Apply for a student visa – make sure you provide all the information and documents required – including your CAS (and English language test certificate if you needed one). You’ll also need to prove you can afford to study and live in the UK – check the UKVI financial requirements and our finance and support information.

Apply for a student visa

You can also apply for a student visa to study in the UK if you’re 16 or over and you:

• have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor
• have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course – the amount will vary depending on your circumstances.
• can speak, read, write and understand English
• have consent from your parents if you’re 16 or 17 – you’ll need evidence of this when you apply.

You'll need: 

• Your Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) number
• A valid passport/travel document 

You might need:

• Proof of parental or guardian consent (if you're under 18) 
• Education certificates 
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Proof of finances 
• TB test certificate (if applicable) 
• ATAS certificate (if applicable) 
• A supporting letter explaining any gaps in your studies (for example, in case of period of employment)

As part of your usual visa process, as well as receiving a Biometric Residents Permit (BRP) you'll also be required to create a ‘UKVI account’ to be able to access your eVisa. 

What you need to do

1. Apply and submit biometrics: Apply for your visa as normal via gov.uk. This will include uploading your biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC), or via the ID check app. 
2. Await your decision and receive your visa: If you're granted a student visa, you'll still receive a visa sticker (also called a vignette) in your passport. You'll be asked to collect your passport from the VAC. 
3. Collect Biometric Residents Permit (BRP) card: You'll still have collect your BRP. 
4. Create a UKVI account: You should then create a UKVi account to access your eVisa. You'll need your BRP, a valid passport with your BRp number, or your visa application number. 

You'll then be able to share your immigration status easily using the 'view and prove' service. 

UK eVisas

• A standard student visa application costs £490 whether you apply from outside the UK or when you're already in the UK. You must pay the visa fee for each person that joins you.
• If you choose to apply using the priority or super priority service, for a faster decision on your visa, the fee is more expensive. These services may be available in some countries but not others. You may also be able to choose other optional services, such as document checking or interpretation, for an additional cost.
• As well as the visa application fees, you will need to pay the immigration health surcharge, which is £776 per year for students, their dependants, and those on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa. For example, £2,328 for a 3-year visa. 
• You might also have to provide evidence that you have enough savings to support yourself, called a 'financial requirement'. Current requirements are £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London and £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London. You do not need to provide financial evidence if you're a national of certain countries. 

For more information on financial evidence, visit GOV.uk.

When you arrive at passport control here in the UK, you should expect Border Force officers to ask you simple questions about your studies or your stay in the UK. To help you plan for your first arrival in the UK as a student and what to expect, UKCISA offers helpful preparation and arrival guidance here. 

You might be able to apply for other visas after your course if you’d like to stay in the UK to work. After completing your studies in the UK, international students may be eligible to apply for the Graduate visa or Skilled Worker visa.