UK Student Visa

If you are from a country listed under the ‘differential evidence requirement’, you do not need to provide financial proof as part of your initial application. However, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) may still request this evidence before making a decision. If this happens, you will need to provide proof that you meet the financial requirements.

Eligible Countries and Territories:

English Language Requirement for a UK Student Visa

Most UK Student visa applicants must prove their English language ability unless exempt.

Required Level of English

The level of English required depends on your course:

• Degree-level courses (RQF Level 6 and above): CEFR Level B2
• Courses below degree level (RQF Level 3-5): CEFR Level B1

How to Meet This Requirement

• Passing an approved English language test (SELT) at the required level.
• Holding a degree taught or researched in English.
• Being a national of a majority English-speaking country (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia).

Some students may be exempt if their university confirms they meet the English requirement through internal assessment.

How to Apply for a UK Student Visa

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

You will need:

• A valid passport or travel document.
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your UK institution.
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters).
• English language certificate (if required).
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable, based on your country of residence).
• Parental consent (if under 18).

Step 2: Submit an Online Application

• Apply via the official UK government website.
• Pay the visa application fee.
• Upload supporting documents.

Step 3: Attend a Biometric Appointment

• Provide fingerprints and photographs at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your home country.

Step 4: Await a Decision

• Standard processing time: 3 weeks (faster processing may be available for an additional fee).

Fees and Costs (2025)

• Visa Application Fee: £490
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is mandatory and provides access to NHS healthcare during your stay.

Work Rights on a UK Student Visa

You can:

• Work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
• Work full-time during vacations.
• Undertake internships or placements as part of your course.

You cannot:

• Work self-employed or as a freelancer.
• Take a full-time permanent job.
• Claim public funds (benefits).
• Work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer.

Bringing Dependants on a UK Student Visa

As of January 2024, the UK government has restricted the ability of international students to bring family members (dependants) to the UK. Currently, only students enrolled in specific courses are permitted to bring dependants:

• Government-sponsored students starting a course that lasts longer than 6 months.
• Full-time students on a postgraduate level course (RQF level 7 or above) that lasts 9 months or longer, provided the course is either:
  • A PhD or other doctorate (RQF level 8).
  • A research-based higher degree.

For courses starting on or after 1 January 2024, only the above categories are eligible to bring dependants.

Definition of Dependants:

• Partner:
  • Husband, wife, or civil partner.
  • Unmarried partner.
• Children:
  • Children under 18 years old, including those born in the UK during your stay.

Before your UK Student visa expires, you must:

• Leave the UK or apply for a new visa.
• If eligible, apply for the Graduate Visa, which allows you to stay and work for:
  • 2 years after completing a bachelor's or master's degree.
  • 3 years after completing a PhD.
• You may also switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you have a job offer from a UK sponsor.

How Immtell Can Help

Applying for a UK Student visa can be complex, especially with financial proof and documentation requirements. Immtell provides expert guidance to ensure your application is accurate, complete, and meets all Home Office requirements.

We assist with:

• Verifying financial eligibility and document preparation.
• Ensuring your CAS and university documents meet visa requirements.
• Helping with dependants and future visa options (Graduate or Skilled Worker visa).