Overview
The UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) lets non-UK nationals study full-time at a licensed student sponsor. The institution issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which anchors the visa application. The visa can cover undergraduate, postgraduate, and some foundation or English language courses.
Processing from outside the UK is typically around 3 weeks once biometrics have been submitted, but financial document preparation often takes longer and should start well in advance.
Who it's for
- Non-UK nationals accepted onto a full-time course at a UK licensed sponsor
- Applicants aged 16 or over (a separate Child Student visa applies to younger students)
- Those planning post-study work in the UK via the Graduate route after completing their degree
Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Offer letter / CAS | Unconditional offer and a valid CAS reference number from a licensed student sponsor |
| English language | Meet the language requirement set by the institution or approved SELT |
| Tuition funds | Proof you can pay the full first year of course fees (or full course fees if shorter) |
| Living cost funds | £1,483/month in London or £1,136/month outside London, for up to 9 months |
| 28-day rule | Funds must have been held continuously for 28 days before the date of your bank statement |
| Age (under 18) | Parental consent letter and additional evidence required |
| Tuberculosis (TB) | Certificate required for applicants from certain countries |
Steps
- Receive your unconditional offer from a UK university or college
- Request your CAS from the institution (usually issued 6 months before course start)
- Prepare financial evidence to meet the 28-day continuous holding rule
- Apply online and book biometric appointment (usually at a visa application centre)
- Receive visa decision (typically around 3 weeks from biometrics)
- Collect your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) within 10 days of arriving in the UK
Bringing dependants
Bringing a partner or children significantly increases monthly maintenance requirements. Dependant rules for student visa holders vary depending on whether you are a postgraduate student sponsored by a higher education provider. Check current rules before assuming family accompaniment is straightforward.
After study: Graduate route
Most students who complete a degree-level or above qualification at a UK higher education provider can apply for the Graduate route immediately after finishing. This allows 2 years of unsponsored work (3 years for PhD graduates) and is a common bridge into sponsored employment.
Key notes
- Financial documents must follow strict 28-day balance and timing rules; minor errors cause refusals
- The institution's CAS is the single most important document; errors in it are very difficult to fix after submission
- Work rights are usually 20 hours per week term-time for degree-level students
- Switching from a Student visa to a work route inside the UK is possible but has restrictions depending on course level
This content is for informational purposes only.