With over 150 higher education institutions to choose from, the United Kingdom remains an educational hub of the world. Over half a million international students come to the UK to study every single year. All students from outside the United Kingdom need a UK Student Visa before they can begin their studies.
Visa holders studying at degree level can usually stay in the UK for up to 5 years on this visa; below degree level, this is usually up to 2 years.
Visa candidates can apply for a UK Student Visa if they are 16 years of age or older and:
Visa candidates can apply for the Skilled Worker visa online.
Applicants will need to provide documentary evidence to show that they meet the requirements for this visa.. The key document here is the Certificate of Sponsorship issued by a licensed sponsor, which will confirm the details of the applicant’s employment, including the skill level and the salary.
To meet the English language requirement, applicants can rely on:
All applicants will also need to demonstrate their knowledge of English at B2 level for those planning to study at degree level or above, and B1 level for those studying below degree level.
Student visa holders can:
Student visa holders can’t:
Student visa application process and fees
Applicants need to have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor. A licensed student sponsor is any UK education institution that holds a government permit to educate students from outside the UK. The full list of education institutions that hold this permit can be accessed on the gov.uk website.
Once applicants are offered a place on the course, their education provider will send them a reference number called a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, or CAS. This number must be entered on the visa candidate’s Student Visa application.
Before applying, all applicants will need enough money to pay for their course for 1 academic year as well as money to support themselves during their studies. The amount applicants need to demonstrate is currently set at £1,334 per month for courses in London and £1,023 for courses outside the UK.
Would you like to learn more about this visa or find out which UK immigration route best suits your needs? Speak to us at +44 (0) 020 808 73583 or fill out our Quick Consultation form.
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