Are you already in the UK on a different visa and wish to begin your studies? You may be eligible to ‘switch’ to a Student Visa without leaving the country. This process is a full visa application with its own specific rules and restrictions, and getting it right is crucial to protecting your legal status in the UK.
Our expert immigration advisors specialise in in-country visa switching applications. We provide comprehensive support to ensure your application is valid, complete, and submitted on time, allowing for a smooth transition to your new life as a student in the UK.
Who Cannot Switch to a Student Visa?
It is critical to understand that you cannot switch to a Student Visa if you are in the UK on a short-term or temporary visa. This includes if you currently hold:
- A Visit Visa (Standard Visitor Visa)
- A Short-term Student Visa
- A Parent of a Child Student Visa
- A Seasonal Worker Visa
- A Domestic Worker in a Private Household Visa
- Any form of ‘leave outside the immigration rules’
If you are on one of these visas, you must leave the UK and apply for your Student Visa from your home country.
Core Eligibility for Switching Your Visa
To successfully switch to a Student Visa from within the UK, you must:
- Be Physically in the UK: You must submit your application from within the UK.
- Hold a Valid CAS: You must have an unconditional offer and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed student sponsor.
- Meet the Financial Requirement: If you have been in the UK for less than 12 months, you must prove you have sufficient funds for your course fees and living costs, meeting the strict 28-day rule.
Application Timing: When You Must Apply
The timing of your application is critical to its success and to maintaining your lawful status.
- Earliest You Can Apply: 3 months before your new course starts.
- Latest You Can Apply: You must submit your application before your current visa expires.
- The 28-Day Rule: Your new course must begin no more than 28 days after your current visa expires.
- CAS Validity: You must apply within 6 months of your CAS being issued.
You can legally remain in the UK while you await a decision, provided you applied before your previous visa expired.
The Application Process, Fees, and Timelines
- How to Apply: The entire application must be completed online. You will verify your identity either digitally via the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or in person at a UKVCAS service point for your biometric appointment.
- Application Fee: The fee to switch your visa is £524. You must also pay the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Decision Time: A standard decision can take up to 8 weeks. A faster priority service may be available for an additional fee.
Crucial Warning: You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man while your application is pending. Doing so will lead to your application being automatically withdrawn.
After a Successful Application
If your application is successful, your immigration status will be updated, and you will be issued an eVisa (a secure digital record of your visa). You will receive an email explaining how to access your eVisa through your new UKVI account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Switching to a Student Visa
Q: Can I switch from a Graduate Visa to a Student Visa?
A: Yes, this is a common route for graduates who wish to pursue further studies, such as a Master’s or a PhD. You must meet all the eligibility criteria for the new Student Visa.
Q: I am currently on a Skilled Worker visa. Can I switch to study?
A: Yes, the Skilled Worker visa is a category from which you are permitted to switch to the Student Visa route from within the UK.
Q: What happens if I apply the day before my current visa expires?
A: While this is legally permissible, we strongly advise against it. It leaves no room for error. We recommend starting the process with us well in advance to ensure a smooth, stress-free submission.
Transition to Your Studies Seamlessly with Expert Help
Switching visa categories involves complex rules and tight deadlines. A mistake can result in a refusal and force you to leave the UK, disrupting your academic plans. Our experienced advisors manage the entire switching process for you.
- We confirm your eligibility to switch.
- We ensure your financial and academic documents are perfect.
- We manage the online application to prevent critical errors.
Contact us today for a consultation and secure your transition to a UK Student Visa with confidence.
About the Author:
Farzad Ghods is an international lawyer specialising in UK immigration law. He is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Immigration Advisors Authority (IAA) in the United Kingdom, and is also a member of the Iran Bar Association. He brings over fourteen years of professional legal experience to his practice.