All students expect the UK, EEA and Swiss nationals have to apply for a Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK. Once a student has been offered a place on a course, the course provider will advise the on how to apply for a student visa from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
You can apply up to three months in advance of your course start date. It normally takes up to 15 days but could be longer at peak times, so make sure you apply early enough. However, there are a few things you need to do first before you can send off your visa application.
- 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.
- 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 an alternative test or Skype interview.
- Accept an unconditional offer of a place on a course – then if your university or college has a Tier 4 Sponsor licence, they can give you Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
- Apply for a Tier 4 student visa – make sure you provide all the information and documents required – including your CAS (and English language test certificate if you needed one).
Tier 4 Student Visa Overview
You can apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa to study in the UK if you’re 16 or over and you:
- have been offered a place on a course
- can speak, read, write and understand English
- have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course – the amount will vary depending on your circumstances
- are from a country that’s not in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland
- meet the other eligibility requirements
When to apply for a Tier 4 Student Visa?
The earliest you can apply for a visa is 3 months before you start your course. You’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.
Tier 4 Student Visa Fees
It costs £348 to apply for this visa from outside the UK. You must pay £348 per person for any dependants.
Healthcare surcharge
You’ll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.
How long you can stay under the Tier 4 Student Visa?
You can arrive in the UK before your course starts:
- up to 1 week before, if your course lasts 6 months or less
- up to 1 month before, if your course lasts more than 6 months
How long you can stay depends on the kind of course you’re doing and what study you’ve already completed.
What you can and cannot do under the Tier 4 Student Visa conditions?
You can:
- study
- work as a student union sabbatical officer
- apply from inside or outside the UK
- apply to extend your stay
- work in most jobs – depending on what level your course is and what kind of sponsor you have
You cannot:
- get public funds
- work in certain jobs, for example, professional sportsperson or sports coach
- study at an academy or a local authority-funded school (also known as a maintained school)
You may be able to bring in family members (dependants).
Are you planning to study at a UK university? We are here to help you with all the assistance you might need. Book an appointment today with one of our experts.