Studying in the UK as an international student starts, in practical terms, with the Student visa. It works on a points-based system, and while the process is genuinely manageable once you understand what’s required, the financial evidence and documentation rules are the most common source of delays and problems.
This guide covers who needs a Student visa, the core eligibility requirements, and what to expect from the application process. Immigration rules change frequently, so always check GOV.UK for the current, definitive requirements before applying.
Who Needs a UK Student Visa?
The Student visa, formerly known as Tier 4, is for international students aged 16 or over studying an approved course with a licensed UK education provider. You’ll generally need one if your course lasts longer than six months and you’re not a UK or Irish national.
The Points-Based System
The Student visa uses a points-based system, requiring a total of 70 points across three areas:
| Requirement | Points | What It Involves |
|---|---|---|
| Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) | 50 | An electronic document issued by your university once you’ve met all admission conditions |
| Financial evidence | 10 | Proof you can cover course fees and living costs for a set period |
| English language proficiency | 10 | Evidence of English ability, typically at CEFR B2 level for degree-level courses |
Financial Requirements
You’ll need to show you can support yourself financially, covering both your course fees and living costs for a set period, typically up to nine months. Living cost requirements are higher for London than for the rest of the UK, reflecting the difference in cost of living. These figures are reviewed periodically, so it’s essential to check the exact current thresholds on GOV.UK before you apply, since using outdated figures is a common cause of application problems.
English Language Requirements
Most degree-level applicants need to demonstrate English proficiency at CEFR B2 level or above, covering reading, writing, speaking and listening. This is usually shown through an approved Secure English Language Test, though some applicants are exempt if they’ve previously studied in English or their university conducts its own assessment. It’s worth confirming your specific institution’s policy early, since booking an approved test at the right time avoids unnecessary delays.
The Application Process
- Receive your CAS from your university, issued once you’ve met all academic and financial conditions of your offer.
- Gather your supporting documents, including your passport, financial evidence, and English test results if required.
- Apply online, with most Student visa holders now receiving their immigration status digitally through an eVisa rather than a physical document.
- Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to NHS services for the duration of your visa.
- Attend a biometric appointment if required, to provide fingerprints and a photo as part of the application.
Processing times and fees change periodically, so always check the current figures directly on GOV.UK before budgeting for your application.
Work Rights While Studying
Most degree-level Student visa holders can work part-time during term time, up to a set number of hours per week, with full-time work usually permitted during official university vacation periods. Some further education students face a lower weekly limit. Always check the specific conditions attached to your visa, since work rights can vary based on your course level and institution.
What Happens After You Graduate?
The Graduate Route allows eligible students to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, for a period after completing their degree, with different durations depending on your qualification level. Rules around the Graduate Route have changed in recent years, so check GOV.UK for the current position before relying on it as part of your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Student visa for a short course?
Generally, you only need a Student visa if your course lasts longer than six months; shorter courses may fall under a different visa category, so check the specific requirements for your course length.
Can I bring my family with me on a Student visa?
Dependant eligibility has become more restricted in recent years and generally now only applies to PhD or research-level students, so check the current rules directly if this affects you.
How many hours can I work on a Student visa?
Most degree-level students can work part-time during term time and full-time during official vacation periods, though exact hour limits vary by course level, so check your visa conditions directly.
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?
This is an annual fee paid as part of your visa application that grants access to NHS healthcare services for the duration of your stay in the UK.
UK immigration rules change frequently. Always confirm current fees, financial thresholds, and eligibility criteria directly on GOV.UK before applying, and consider seeking advice from your university’s international student support team.
Understanding the points-based system and financial evidence rules in advance makes the Student visa process considerably more manageable. Once you’ve settled in, our guide to freshers’ week covers what to expect in your first days at a UK university.
