Every year the UK welcomes with open arms thousands of international students from abroad. If you plan to study in Great Britain, you will need to apply for a UK student visa before you leave your home country.
Truth is…
Applying for a student visa is a daunting and perplexing process. One way around that difficulty is by using the very easy to use UK and Visas Immigration site. There are exceptions such as those students from Switzerland and those from EU/EEA states.
# 2 types of UK Visas for International students
- Tier 4 (points-based system)
Since the UK has a point-based immigration system for all students over the age of 16, you will need 40 points to qualify for a study visa.
The points are made up of the following:
30 points towards evidence of sufficient funds
10 points for a valid confirmation of acceptance studies (CAS) from a UK border agency-licensed sponsor or your institution which must be UK Government approved. Find out more at UKCISA.
Student Visitor Visa
Even if you plan to visit the UK and undertake a short course, you can apply for a student visitor Visa. Young people under 18 can do the same and register as a child visitor. Your stay will be valid for up to 6 months for both full-time, part-time studies and 11 months if undertaking an English language study course.
Discover more about short-term study visas.
UK student visa requirements
You will need to apply up to 3 months in before the start of your course. If unsure of the timeline check Average processing times for your country to avoid further complications. The UK operates a point-based immigration system for all visas so you will need to meet the following criteria:
- Valid Passport
- Pay the fee in local currency go to www.ukvisas.gov.uk/howtoapply/visafeesstudy for more details
- Biometric details, including fingerprints and a digital photograph, taken at a British visa centre
- A passport sized photo following the guidelines
- All the documents relating to the tier 4 guidance including certificates and bank statements
- Originals rather than copies and if not written in English a translation service may be available
- Proficiency in English language skills demonstrated by passing a secure English Language test SELT
Provide evidence you are financially capable of paying 1,015 pounds per month studying outside London (or 1,265 pounds per month for inner London) for up to a maximum of 9 months.
Interested in obtaining a UK study Visa? Titan Global Student’s United Kingdom’s Study Centre promises to do all the heavy lifting for you. We will help you find the right University as well as assisting you to study, work, and live in the UK.