Wish to continue your academic journey in the UK? You may be able to extend your Student Visa (or previous Tier 4 visa) to start a new course or complete your current one. This is not an automatic process; it is a full visa application with strict rules, including the critical ‘academic progress’ requirement.
Our expert immigration advisors specialise in Student Visa extensions. We provide comprehensive support to ensure your application is submitted correctly and on time, safeguarding your legal status in the UK and allowing you to focus on your education.
Core Requirements for a Successful Visa Extension
To be eligible to extend your visa from within the UK, you must:
- Currently be in the UK on a valid Student Visa or Tier 4 (General) student visa.
- Have a new Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed student sponsor for your new course.
- Meet the ‘academic progress’ requirement, which generally means your new course is at a higher level than your previous one.
- Prove you have sufficient funds if you have been in the UK for less than 12 months.
Understanding the ‘Academic Progress’ Requirement
This is a key part of the extension application. The UK Home Office needs to see that you are genuinely progressing in your studies. Your new course must typically be:
- At a higher academic level than your current course (e.g., moving from a Bachelor’s to a Master’s).
- At the same level, but only if it’s a degree-level course at a Higher Education Provider (HEP) and is either related to your previous course or your future career goals.
- An intercalated course as part of your medicine, dentistry, or medical science degree.
When You Don’t Need to Show Academic Progress
There are important exceptions where this rule does not apply. You can extend your visa without showing academic progress if you are:
- Resitting exams or repeating modules for your course.
- Completing a PhD or other doctorate you have already started.
- Applying to complete a course you started at an institution that has since lost its sponsorship licence.
- Returning to your studies after serving as a student union sabbatical officer.
Application Timing: When to Apply for Your Extension
Timing is critical. Applying too early or too late can invalidate your application.
- The Earliest You Can Apply: 3 months before your new course starts.
- The Latest You Can Apply: You must apply before your current visa expires.
- The 28-Day Rule: Your new course must begin no more than 28 days after your current visa expires.
You can remain in the UK under the terms of your previous visa while you wait for a decision on your extension application.
The Application Process, Fees, and Timelines
- How to Apply: You must apply online from within the UK. You will either verify your identity using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or by attending an in-person appointment at a UKVCAS service point to provide your biometric information.
- Application Fee: The fee to extend your visa is £524. You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Decision Time: A decision is usually made within 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 extension application is pending. If you do, your application will be automatically withdrawn.
After You Apply: Your Successful Decision
If your application is successful, you will be issued an eVisa, which is a secure online record of your immigration status. You will receive an email explaining how to access your eVisa via your UKVI account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Student Visa Extensions
Q: What happens if I apply after my visa expires?
A: You will be classed as an “overstayer,” which has serious consequences and will almost certainly lead to a refusal. It is vital to apply on time.
Q: Can I start my new course while I’m waiting for a decision?
A: Yes, if you have a valid CAS and submitted your extension application before your previous visa expired, you can usually start your course while you wait.
Q: Can my family extend their dependant visas too?
A: Yes, your partner and children must submit their own separate extension applications, which can be done at the same time as yours.
Don’t Risk Your Academic Future – Secure Your Extension with Expert Help
An extension application is just as important as your first one. A mistake can disrupt your studies and your life in the UK. Our experienced advisors manage the entire process, from checking your academic progress eligibility to reviewing your final application.
Contact us today for a consultation and continue your UK education with complete peace of mind.
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.