UK Student Visas: Study in the World’s Top Universities
The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and colleges. The UK Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) allows international students aged 16 or over to study full‑time at a licensed student sponsor institution.
At K&A Solicitors, our student immigration team helps prospective and current international students secure their Student Visa, extend their stay, and plan their post‑study career options in the UK.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information about UK Student Visas. It does not constitute legal advice. Student visa rules are detailed and change frequently. For tailored guidance, please book a consultation with our immigration solicitors.
What Is a UK Student Visa?
A UK Student Visa allows you to come to or remain in the UK for full‑time study at an institution that holds a Student Sponsor Licence from the Home Office.
Key features:
- You can study at degree level (Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD) or below degree level (certain courses).
- You can work part‑time during term (up to 20 hours per week for degree‑level students) and full‑time during vacations.
- You can bring dependants (spouse/partner and children) if you are studying at a postgraduate level or are a government‑sponsored student.
- After completing your course, you may be eligible for the Graduate Visa (2 or 3 years of post‑study work rights).
Who Can Apply for a UK Student Visa?
Basic Eligibility
You must:
- Be aged 16 or over
- Have an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor
- Have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your institution
- Show you have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course
- Meet English language requirements (unless exempt)
- Have parental consent if you are 16 or 17
Financial Requirements
You must show you have enough money to cover:
- Course fees for the first year (or full course if less than a year)
- Living costs: £1,334 per month for up to 9 months if studying in London; £1,023 per month if studying outside London (or £1,023 per month for boarding students)
You can use:
- Your own bank statements (held for 28 consecutive days)
- A loan letter from a regulated financial institution
- An official financial sponsor (government, scholarship agency, or the institution itself)
English Language Requirements
You must prove your English level is at least CEFR Level B2 for degree‑level study or CEFR Level B1 for below degree‑level study.
Accepted evidence includes:
- A Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider (e.g., IELTS for UKVI)
- A GCSE, A‑level or Scottish Higher in English (taught at a UK school)
- A degree‑level qualification taught in English (verified via Ecctis)
Some nationalities are exempt from the English language requirement.
Our Student Visa Application Process
Step 1: Course & CAS Confirmation (Week 1)
We:
- Confirm your institution holds a valid Student Sponsor Licence.
- Review your CAS statement for accuracy (course details, fees, start date).
- Check that your financial evidence meets the strict 28‑day rule.
- Assess your English language evidence and advise if an SELT is needed.
Step 2: Financial & Document Preparation (Weeks 1–2)
We provide a tailored checklist, which typically includes:
- CAS statement from your institution
- Passport (valid for the duration of your course)
- Bank statements (covering 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before application)
- Loan or sponsorship letter (if applicable)
- English language test certificate (if required)
- Parental consent letter (if aged 16 or 17)
- TB test certificate (if from a listed country)
- Previous qualifications and transcripts
- ATAS certificate (for certain science/technology courses)
We review each document for compliance with the Immigration Rules.
Step 3: Application Form & Legal Representations (Week 2)
We:
- Complete the online Student Visa application form.
- Draft a cover letter confirming:
- Your genuine intention to study
- How do you meet the financial and English language requirements
- Your post‑study plans (if relevant)
- Ensure all evidence is uploaded correctly.
Step 4: Biometrics, Fees & Submission (Week 2–3)
We:
- Book your biometrics appointment (UKVCAS or overseas visa centre).
- Pay the application fee (£490 for most applications; £716 for priority service).
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) (£776 per year of study).
- Submit the application and upload documents.
Step 5: Processing & Decision (Weeks 3–8)
Standard processing is typically 3 weeks from biometrics for most nationalities. We:
- Monitor your application status.
- Respond to any Home Office requests for further information.
- Notify you as soon as a decision is made.
If approved, you receive a vignette (for overseas applications) or a BRP/e‑visa (for in‑country applications). If refused, we advise on next steps.
Typical Documents for a Student Visa
- Valid passport
- CAS statement from your institution
- Bank statements (28‑day rule) or sponsorship letter
- English language test certificate (if required)
- TB test certificate (if applicable)
- Parental consent (if under 18)
- ATAS certificate (if required)
- Previous academic qualifications and transcripts
- Any previous UK visa refusals or immigration history
We tailor the list to your specific course and circumstances.
Post‑Study Options: Graduate Visa & Beyond
After successfully completing your course, you may be eligible for the Graduate Visa:
- 2 years of post‑study work rights (3 years for PhD graduates)
- No sponsorship required – you can work in any role, for any employer
- Can lead to a Skilled Worker visa and eventual settlement
We advise on Graduate Visa eligibility and help you transition smoothly from Student to Graduate status.
Why Choose K&A Solicitors for Student Visas?
- Specialist Student Immigration Team – Experienced in Student Visa applications, extensions and switching.
- Manchester‑Based, Global Reach – We assist students worldwide via remote consultations.
- SRA Regulated – Professional standards, indemnity insurance and ethical obligations protect you.
- Fixed‑Fee Options – Transparent pricing for most Student Visa applications (government fees separate).
- End‑to‑End Support – From initial CAS review through to post‑study Graduate Visa advice.
- High Success Rate – We focus on meticulous document preparation to avoid common refusal reasons (financial evidence errors, CAS issues, English language gaps).
Take the Next Step: Secure Your UK Student Visa
If you have an offer from a UK institution, early preparation can avoid delays and refusals.
Your Initial Consultation Will Cover:
- Assessment of your CAS and institution’s sponsor status
- Review of your financial evidence and English language proof
- A clear checklist of documents you will need
- Explanation of processing times and fees
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