UK Student Visa – Requirements, Process & Fees

Last Updated on August 29, 2024

The United Kingdom boasts a rich tradition of academic excellence, hosting many world-renowned universities and educational institutions. Recent statistics from the UK Home Office reveal that in the first quarter of 2024, international students submitted 40,700 applications for “sponsored study” visas. The UK government’s student-friendly policies make it possible for all Indian students to pursue education there. However, obtaining a UK student visa is an important prerequisite. The type of visa you need depends on your age and the nature of your intended studies in the UK. Hence, let’s discuss the UK student visa, its requirements, fees, process, etc. 

UK Visa Types

Applying for a UK visa cant be a daunting process, especially for an Indian student. You should know that there are various types of UK visas available for Indians. India and the UK have recently introduced the ‘Young Professional Scheme’ (YPS), allowing eligible individuals aged 18 to 30 to obtain a UK Work Visa for up to two years.

For students planning to study in the UK for more than 6 months, there are three main types of UK Student Visas:

1. Short-term Study Visa

This visa is designed for students enrolling in English language courses lasting up to 11 months.

2. Student Visa

Formerly known as the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, this category is for students pursuing higher education in the UK.

3. Child Student Visa

Previously called the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa, this visa is for children aged 4 to 17 who wish to study at an independent school in the UK.

UK Student Visa Eligibility

In order to apply for the UK Student Visa successfully, students must keep note of the following points: 

1. Students must receive a successful letter of acceptance from the university they have applied to. 
2. Must have necessary financial resources to support themselves. 
3. Must demonstrate proficiency in the English language 
4. Must show proof of necessary funds in the respective bank account 
5. If aged 16 or 17, students must submit a consent form from their parents. 

UK Student Visa Cost

The current cost structure for UK student visas is as follows:

The Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, now known as the Student Visa, costs £363 (equivalent to USD 440 or INR 36,893) in the UK. An additional £680 (INR 69,059) per person per month is required for any dependents.

Specific visa categories and their fees:

1. General Student Visa: The application fee is £363 (29,395 INR), plus £680 for each dependent.
2. Child Student Visa: The application fee is £363 (29,395 INR), plus a healthcare surcharge.
3. Short-term Study Visa: An 11-month visa costs £200 (16,195 INR), plus a surcharge of £470 (47,671 INR).

Furthermore, international students planning to study in the UK must pay an annual healthcare surcharge of £1035 (INR 92,834) to access the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.

LATEST UPDATE 

The UK government has proposed a visa fee hike which will affect international students all across the world, including Indians. Once the proposal is accepted, visa applicants will have to pay an increased fee and health surcharges to the National Health Service. UK PM Rishi Sunak confirmed that the fee hike may be around 5-7% across visa categories and the same will assist support the country’s public sector wage increase for police, teachers, junior doctors, etc.

Highlights

• Work and visa costs will increase by 15%
• All other visa costs will increase by a minimum of 20%

UK Student Visa: Documents Required

While wondering about UK Student Visa Requirements, you must also consider the required documents. Here is a comprehensive list of all of the documents required for studying in the United Kingdom: 

Here’s a tabulated version of the required documents for a UK student visa:

Document	Description
Visa Application Form	Completed student visa application form
Parental Consent	Proof of parent’s or guardian’s consent (if under 18)
Acceptance Letter	CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) and visa letter from approved education provider (issued within 6 months)
Proof of Funds	Evidence of sufficient funds for first year’s course fees and living costs (up to 9 months)
Visa Fee Receipt	Confirmation of visa fee payment
ATAS Certificate	If required by nationality and course
Payslips	Recent payslips (if applicable)
Academic Records	Original mark sheets/provisional certificates
English Proficiency	Scoresheet of exams like TOEFL, GMAT, IELTS, etc.

1. Proof of funds must be held for at least 28 days, ending no more than one month before the application date. 

Courses valid under UK Student Visa

Course Type	Description
Full-time Below Degree Level	Minimum 15 hours per week of organized daytime study
Full-time Degree Level or Above	Qualification at degree level or higher
Full-time Degree Level (Shared Platform)	Qualification at degree level or higher, shared platform with UK higher education program
Part-time Above Degree Level	Qualification above degree level, part-time study
Foundation Course	Known foundation program for postgraduate doctors or dentists
English Language Program	B2 level or above in the Common European Framework of Reference Languages

UK Student Visa Process

The UK Student Visa application process involves several steps. Here are some pointers that you must keep in mind: 

1. Eligibility Check:

1. Ensure you have a ‘confirmation of acceptance for studies’ (CAS) from your chosen institution.
2. Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover course fees and living costs.

2. Document Preparation:

Gather all required documents like passport, English-proficiency certificate, proof of financial resources, etc. 

3. Online Application:

1. Register and create an account on the official UK Visa website.
2. Complete the online form, print, and sign it.
3. Book an appointment at a visa application centre. Submit your fingerprints, credentials, biometrics, etc. at the centre.

4. Fee Payment:

1.   Standard Chartered Bank (select branches)
2.   Demand draft from a nationalized or foreign bank
3.   Payment at the visa application centre

Keep in mind that the demand draft must be in favour of the British High Commission. 

5. Visa Application Centre Visit:

Attend your appointment to submit your application, facial photograph, and fingerprints.

UK Student Visa: Working Hours

Students will be thrilled to know that all eligible holders of the UK student visa are allowed to work 20 hours part-time during semesters and 40 hours during holidays. The given figures are based on how long can a student work in the UK per week. 

UK Student Visa: When to Apply for Visa Extension

As a suggestion, those who are thinking about applying for a UK student visa should do it at least three months before their course starts and within 6 months of receiving CAS. Please apply prior to your current visa’s expiration date. Additionally, your new course must begin within 28 days after the end date mentioned on your existing visa. You can live in the UK until a thorough decision is made by the High Consulate. 

Conclusion

International students can go to universities in UK by using the Student Visa for UK program if they meet some specific requirements. New rules have changed different steps of how you apply. Stricter UK International student visa rules may make it harder for graduates to get work experience in the UK. These changes show how important it is for future students to stay informed about new opportunities and requirements, so they can have a smooth transition and successful time studying in the UK.

FAQs

What are the eligibility criteria for getting a UK student visa? 

In order to apply for a UK student visa successfully, students must have an unconditional offer from the university they applied to. Moreover, students must prove that they have a sponsor in terms of financial resources. 

What is a CAS document? 

The university you applied to will send you a reference number called a confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) once they admit you for the course. Students must enter this number on their visa application so as to get through successfully. 

What are the documents required for UK Student Visa? 

Students must keep the following documents ready for a UK student visa application- A valid passport, proof of finances, confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS), and health test results. 

What are the financial documents required for UK student visa application? 

The financial needs for UK Student Visa application can be understood by considering these points:

1. £1,334 each month (for a maximum of 9 months) if you are taking a course in London
2. £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) when you are studying a course outside London
3. If your dependents are coming with you, then you must show an additional £845 a month (for up to 9 months) if you are studying in London and £680 a month (for up to 9 months), if studying outside London.