Ready to start your academic journey in the United Kingdom? The UK Student Visa is your official pathway to studying at one of the world’s most prestigious educational destinations. The application process is detailed and requires careful preparation to ensure success.

Our team of expert immigration advisors specialises in Student Visa applications. We provide end-to-end support to remove the stress and complexity, maximising your chances of a successful outcome. Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on preparing for your studies.

Are You Eligible for a UK Student Visa?

To secure a UK Student Visa, you must meet several key requirements. We can help you verify that your application and documents meet the strict Home Office standards. The core eligibility criteria are:

• An Offer from a Licensed Sponsor: You must have a confirmed offer for a course from a UK institution that is a licensed student sponsor. They will provide you with a unique Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number.
• Sufficient Financial Funds: You must prove you have enough money to pay for your course fees for one academic year and support yourself financially during your studies.
• English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate that you can speak, read, write, and understand English to the required level.
• Parental Consent (for applicants aged 16 or 17): If you are under 18, you must provide clear evidence of consent from your parent or legal guardian.

The Student Visa Application Process: Timing is Everything

Submitting your application at the right time is crucial. The timeline depends on where you are applying from.

Applying from Outside the UK

• When to Apply: You can submit your application up to 6 months before your course start date.
• Decision Time: A decision is typically made within 3 weeks.

Applying from Inside the UK

• When to Apply: You can apply up to 3 months before your course starts, but you must apply before your current visa expires.
• Decision Time: A decision usually takes around 8 weeks.

For both routes, a faster “priority service” may be available. Our advisors can help you determine the best application strategy for your situation.

Your Stay in the UK: How Long and What’s Next?

The length of your visa depends on your course. We can help you plan for your future in the UK after you graduate.

• Degree Level Courses: For courses at degree level (if you’re 18 or over), your visa can be granted for up to 5 years.
• Below Degree Level Courses: For courses below degree level, the visa is typically granted for up to 2 years.

Future Opportunities: The Graduate Visa

After successfully completing your degree, you may be eligible to switch to a Graduate Visa. This popular route allows you to stay in the UK for at least 2 years to work or look for work, providing a fantastic opportunity to launch your career.

Understanding the Costs: Visa Fees & Healthcare Surcharge

Navigating the total cost can be confusing. Our advisors will provide a clear breakdown of all mandatory fees so there are no surprises.

• Application Fee: The standard fee for a Student Visa is £524, whether you apply from inside or outside the UK.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): You must also pay the IHS, which gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The total amount depends on the length of your visa.

Life as a Student in the UK: What You Can and Cannot Do

Your Student Visa comes with specific conditions. It is vital you understand and adhere to them.

You CAN:

• Study at your licensed sponsor institution.
• Work part-time during term time and full-time during holidays (course-dependent).
• Work as a student union sabbatical officer.

You CANNOT:

• Claim public funds (benefits) or the state pension.
• Work in certain professions, such as a professional sportsperson.
• Be self-employed.
• Study at a state-funded school.

Why Choose Us for Your Student Visa Application?

• Expert Knowledge: We are specialists in UK student immigration rules.
• Maximise Success: Our meticulous document checking and application preparation significantly increase your chances of a first-time approval.
• Reduce Stress: We manage the entire process, providing clarity and support from start to finish.
• Plan Your Future: We can advise on long-term pathways, including the Graduate Visa.

UK Student Visa: Course Requirements & Your CAS Explained

The foundation of every successful UK Student Visa application is a valid course offer from a licensed institution. The key that unlocks your application is the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Understanding the rules around your chosen course and CAS is critical to avoid refusal.

Our team of immigration specialists provides expert guidance on these core requirements. We verify that your course is eligible and that your CAS is correctly issued and used, ensuring your application is built on a solid foundation for success.

The Most Important Document: Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

Before you can even begin your visa application, you must have a CAS. Think of it as your official invitation to study in the UK.

• What is a CAS? A CAS is a unique digital reference number, not a physical document. It is generated by your university or college (your licensed student sponsor) once you have accepted an unconditional offer to study with them.
• What Does it Prove? It proves to the UK Home Office that you are a genuine student with a confirmed place on an eligible course.
• Crucial Deadline: You must submit your Student Visa application within 6 months of the date your CAS was issued. Failing to do so will result in an invalid application.

We will review your CAS to ensure all details are correct and that it is used within the strict validity period, preventing one of the most common reasons for visa refusal.

Is Your Course Eligible for a UK Student Visa?

Your visa application will only be successful if your course meets the specific requirements set out by UK immigration rules. Our advisors can confirm your eligibility. Permitted courses include:

• Full-time, below degree level: Courses leading to a qualification at RQF level 3, 4, or 5, which must include at least 15 hours of organised daytime study per week.
• Full-time, at degree level or above: Courses leading to a qualification at RQF level 6, 7, or 8 (e.g., a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
• Part of an Overseas Course: A full-time UK-based component of a longer higher education course you are studying overseas.
• Part-time, at postgraduate level: Courses leading to a qualification at RQF level 7 or above (e.g., a part-time Master’s or PhD).
• English Language Courses: Standalone English courses at level B2 or higher on the CEFR scale.
• Student Union Sabbatical Officer: You can also apply if you are taking up a full-time, elected position.

A Critical Check: The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

For certain students, an extra security clearance step is required before applying for a visa.

• What is an ATAS certificate? It is a mandatory certificate for students and researchers (at RQF level 7 or above) who will be studying sensitive subjects in fields like science, engineering, and technology.
• Who needs it? If your postgraduate course or research falls into a designated subject area, you must apply for and receive an ATAS certificate before you can submit your Student Visa application.

The ATAS requirement is often overlooked and can cause significant delays. Our team will assess your course to determine if you need an ATAS certificate and guide you through this separate, crucial application process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Your Course and CAS

Q: What is the difference between a conditional and an unconditional offer?
A: A conditional offer means you still need to meet certain requirements (like achieving specific grades or an English language score). An unconditional offer means you have met all the academic and language requirements, and your place is confirmed. You can only get a CAS after your offer is unconditional.

Q: My CAS has an error on it. What should I do?
A: You must contact your university or college immediately. Using a CAS with incorrect information (e.g., a misspelled name or wrong course title) will likely lead to a visa refusal.

Q: Can I get a Student Visa for a part-time Bachelor’s degree?
A: No. Under the current rules, part-time study on a Student Visa is only permitted for courses at the postgraduate level (RQF level 7 or higher).

Secure Your Place in the UK – Get Your Application Right

Mistakes with your course eligibility or CAS can be costly and lead to disappointment. Let our expert advisors review your offer and guide you through the entire Student Visa process.

UK Student Visa Financial Requirements: Your Guide to Proving Funds

Meeting the financial requirement is one of the most critical and rule-heavy parts of your UK Student Visa application. A simple mistake in your bank statements or calculations can lead to a refusal. Our expert immigration advisors specialise in financial evidence, ensuring your documents are prepared perfectly to meet the strict Home Office standards.

This guide explains the two parts of the financial requirement: paying for your course and covering your living costs.

The Two Core Financial Requirements You Must Meet

To be granted a Student Visa, you must prove you have enough money to cover:

1. Your Course Fees for one academic year.
2. Your Living Costs (Maintenance) for up to nine months.

1. Proving Your Course Fees

The amount you need for your first year of course fees is stated on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). You must have funds to cover any amount that has not already been paid to your university.

2. Proving Your Living Costs (Maintenance Funds)

You must also prove you have a specific amount of money set aside for your living costs. The required amount depends on where your university is located:

• For courses in London: You need £1,483 per month.
• For courses outside London: You need £1,136 per month.

You must show you have enough money for a period of up to nine months. This means a total of £13,347 for London or £10,224 for outside London.

The Crucial 28-Day Rule: Don’t Get Caught Out

This is the single most common reason for a financial refusal. You must prove that you have held the total required amount (course fees + living costs) in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days.

• Consistency is Key: The balance in your account must not drop below the required amount for even a single day during this 28-day period.
• Timing is Everything: The end date of this 28-day period must be within 31 days of the date you submit your visa application.

Don’t risk a refusal on a technicality. Our experts will meticulously review your bank statements to ensure they meet the 28-day rule perfectly.

Who is Exempt from Proving Funds?

Certain applicants do not need to provide financial documents with their initial application, which simplifies the process significantly.

1. The 12-Month UK Residency Rule

You are exempt from proving funds if you have been living in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date you apply to switch to or extend a Student Visa.

2. The ‘Differential Evidence Requirement’ (Low-Risk Nationalities)

If you are a national of a country on the UK’s ‘differential evidence’ list, you do not need to submit financial documents with your visa application. This includes countries like:

• Australia
• Botswana
• Canada
• China
• European Union (EU) countries
• Hong Kong
• Japan
• Malaysia
• Singapore
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates
• United States of America
• And many more.

IMPORTANT: Even if you are from one of these countries, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) reserves the right to request your financial evidence at any point during the process. You must still have the funds available and meet the 28-day rule, even if you don’t submit the documents initially.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Student Visa Funds

Q: Can I use my parents’ bank account?
A: Yes, you can use your parents’ or legal guardians’ bank statements. You must also provide your original birth certificate and a letter from your parent(s) confirming their relationship to you and that the funds are for your UK study.

Q: Can I use a student loan?
A: Yes. An official student loan from a government or a recognised student loan company is acceptable. You must provide an official letter from the loan provider as evidence.

Q: What happens if my funds are not in British Pounds (£)?
A: That’s fine, but the closing balance will be converted to GBP using the official exchange rate on the date of your application. It’s wise to hold slightly more than the required amount to account for any currency fluctuations.

Let Us Secure Your Financial Approval

The financial requirement for a UK Student Visa is strict and unforgiving. Our experienced advisors offer a comprehensive financial document checking service to give you complete peace of mind.

UK Student Visa English Language Requirements: Expert Guide to Prove Your Proficiency

Demonstrating your English language ability is a non-negotiable part of your UK Student Visa application. The Home Office has strict rules on how you can prove your proficiency, and failure to meet them is a common reason for refusal.

Our expert immigration advisors provide clear, step-by-step guidance on the English language requirement. We will help you choose the right path, book the correct test if needed, and ensure your application is supported by the correct evidence for a successful outcome.

Three Ways to Prove Your Knowledge of English

You can satisfy the English language requirement through one of three main routes. We can help you determine which one is right for you.

1. Pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT)
This is the most common method. You must take a test from a provider specifically approved by the UK Home Office. Tests like ‘IELTS for UKVI’ or ‘Pearson PTE Academic UKVI’ are popular choices.

2. Hold an Approved UK School Qualification
If you studied at a UK school when you were under 18 and gained a GCSE, A level, or Scottish equivalent in English, you can use this qualification as proof.

3. Have a Degree-Level Qualification Taught in English
If you have a degree-level qualification that was taught or researched in English, this can be used as evidence.

• Important: If you studied outside the UK, you must first obtain confirmation from Ecctis (the service that replaced UK NARIC) that your degree is equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s degree or higher. We can guide you through the Ecctis application process.

What Level of English Do You Need?

The required level of proficiency is measured on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.

Course Level	Minimum CEFR Level Required
Degree Level or Above (RQF 6+)	Level B2
Below Degree Level (RQF 3, 4, 5)	Level B1

[H3] Special Note for Higher Education Provider (HEP) Students

If you are studying a degree-level course, your university (if it is a Higher Education Provider) has the authority to assess your English language ability themselves. They may use their own internal tests or criteria. If your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) states that your university has assessed your English, you often do not need to provide a separate SELT certificate.

Who is Exempt from Proving English Language Ability?

You are automatically exempt from the English language requirement and do not need to provide any evidence if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country, including:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Australia
• The Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belize
• Canada
• Dominica
• Grenada
• Guyana
• Ireland
• Jamaica
• Malta
• New Zealand
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Lucia
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• USA

You are also exempt if you have completed a degree-level qualification in one of the countries listed above.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – English Language Rules

Q: My university says my English is good enough. Do I still need an IELTS test?
A: Not always. If your university is a Higher Education Provider (HEP) and your course is at degree level, their assessment is often sufficient. Your CAS will confirm this. We can review your CAS to give you a definitive answer.

Q: I am a Canadian citizen. Do I need to take an English test?
A: No. As a national of Canada, you are exempt from the requirement.

Q: I am a US student coming for a ‘study abroad’ programme. Do I need to prove my English?
A: No. If you are part of a university degree course in the USA and are coming to the UK for a study abroad programme, you are exempt.

Don’t Let the English Test Be a Barrier to Your UK Studies

The English language requirement is a critical hurdle in your visa application. Misunderstanding the rules can lead to wasted time and money on the wrong tests or a visa refusal. Our experts provide clear and accurate advice tailored to your specific situation.

UK Student Visa Document Checklist: Your Expert Guide for a Successful Application

Submitting the correct documents is the most critical part of your UK Student Visa application. A single missing paper, an incorrect format, or a poorly worded letter can lead to delays or even a costly refusal. Our expert immigration advisors specialise in preparing flawless application bundles, ensuring every document meets the strict Home Office requirements.

This guide provides a clear checklist of the documents you will need. Use it to prepare, then let our experts conduct a final review for complete peace of mind.

Essential Documents for Every Student Visa Application

These two documents form the core of your application. Getting them right is non-negotiable.

1. Your Current Passport or Valid Travel Document:
   1. You must have a valid passport with at least one blank page for your visa sticker. It must be in good condition.
2. Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS):
   1. This is the unique reference number provided by your university or college. It acts as the official proof of your unconditional offer and is the single most important element linking your application to your chosen institution.

Additional Documents You May Need (Depending on Your Circumstances)

Most applicants will need to provide some or all of the following documents. Our experts will provide you with a personalised checklist based on your specific situation.

• Proof of Funds (Financial Evidence):
  • Bank statements, a student loan letter, or official sponsorship documents proving you can pay your course fees and meet the living costs requirement. This is a highly complex area where mistakes are common.
• ATAS Certificate (Academic Technology Approval Scheme):
  • This is a mandatory security clearance certificate required if you are a non-UK national studying or researching certain sensitive subjects at the postgraduate level.
• Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results:
  • If you are applying from a country where TB screening is required by the UK, you must provide a certificate from an approved clinic.
• Consent from a Previous Financial Sponsor:
  • If you have been fully sponsored for both fees and living costs within the last 12 months, you will need a letter from your sponsor giving consent for your new student visa application.

Special Requirements for Applicants Under 18: A Guide for Parents

The UK has strict safeguarding rules for students under 18. We provide specialist guidance to parents to ensure these requirements are met perfectly.

• Written Consent from Parents or Legal Guardians:
  • You must provide a formal letter of consent signed by both parents (or one parent if they have sole legal responsibility). This letter must explicitly state their consent for:
    • The visa application itself.
    • The living and care arrangements in the UK.
    • The child’s travel to and reception in the UK.
• Proof of Relationship:
  • You must provide the child’s birth certificate (or another official government-issued document) that clearly shows the names of the parents providing the consent letter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Application Documents

Q: What if my documents are not in English?
A: Any document that is not in English or Welsh must be submitted with a full, certified translation from a professional translator.

Q: Do I need to provide original documents or copies?
A: You will typically need to submit your original passport. For other documents, you can usually upload high-quality digital copies. Our team will guide you on the exact requirements for your application submission.

Q: How can I be absolutely sure I have all the correct documents?
A: By using our professional Document Checking Service. We provide a personalised checklist and meticulously review every single document before your application is submitted, virtually eliminating the risk of refusal due to incorrect paperwork.

Why Risk a Refusal? Let Our Experts Check Your Documents

A visa refusal can disrupt your academic plans and result in the loss of significant visa and tuition fees. Our professional Document Checking Service is a small investment for complete peace of mind.

Apply for Your UK Student Visa Online: A Step-by-Step Application Guide

The entire application process for a UK Student Visa is completed online. While this offers convenience, the digital journey involves several critical steps where errors can lead to delays or refusal. From completing the form to proving your identity, every stage must be handled with precision.

Our team of immigration specialists provides end-to-end support for your online application. We guide you through every screen and every choice, ensuring your submission is flawless and maximising your chances of a swift, successful decision.

Starting Your Online Student Visa Application

The first step is to complete the official application form on the GOV.UK website. This form will ask for detailed information about your course, your finances, your background, and your immigration history.

• Convenience and Flexibility: You don’t have to complete the entire form in one sitting. The online system allows you to save your progress and return to your application later, giving you the time to gather all the necessary information.

Our service includes a full review of your completed form before submission, catching potential errors that could put your application at risk.

The Critical Step: Proving Your Identity

As part of your online application, you must verify your identity with the UK Home Office. The method you use will depend on your nationality and the type of passport you hold. You will be told which route to follow when you apply.

Route 1: The ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ App (Digital Verification)

This is the modern, fully digital route for applicants with a biometric passport.

• How it Works: You will be prompted to download the secure ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app on your smartphone. The app will allow you to:
  • Scan the biometric chip in your passport.
  • Scan your face using your phone’s camera.
  • Submit your identity information directly to the Home Office.
• The Main Advantage: If you are eligible to use the app, you will not need to attend an in-person appointment at a visa application centre, saving you time and potential travel costs.

Route 2: The Visa Application Centre (VAC) Appointment (In-Person Verification)

This is the traditional route for applicants who are not eligible to use the ID Check app.

• How it Works: You will need to book an appointment at your nearest visa application centre (VAC). At this appointment, you will:
  • Have your fingerprints scanned.
  • Have a digital photograph taken.
    (This is known as providing your “biometric information”).
• What to Expect: You will need to bring your valid passport with you to the appointment. In many cases, you can collect your passport on the same day. Be aware that you may need to travel to your nearest VAC, which could be in a different city or even another country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – The Online Application

Q: Can I choose whether to use the app or go to a VAC?
A: No. The online application system will automatically tell you which identity verification route you must follow based on your details.

Q: Is the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app secure?
A: Yes, it is an official UK government application designed with high-security features to protect your personal data.

Q: What if I make a mistake on the online form after I’ve paid?
A: It can be very difficult to correct errors after submission. This is why our professional review service is so valuable – we help you get it right the first time.

How Our Expert Service Simplifies Your Online Application

Navigating the online portal and the two identity verification routes can be confusing. Our specialists remove the guesswork and provide complete support.

• Step-by-Step Guidance: We walk you through every question on the online form.
• Identity Check Clarity: We provide clear instructions on how to use the ID Check app or book your VAC appointment.
• Document Upload Support: We ensure all your supporting documents are uploaded in the correct format.
• Final Review: We conduct a final, comprehensive review of your entire application before you submit, giving you total confidence.

UK Student Dependant Visa: Your Complete Guide to Bringing Family to the UK

Studying in the UK is a life-changing experience, and you may want your family to share it with you. The rules for bringing your partner and children (known as ‘dependants’) are very specific and have recently changed. Navigating the application process for your loved ones requires careful preparation to ensure you can all be together in the UK.

Our team of immigration experts specialises in dependent applications. We provide comprehensive support to families, ensuring your applications are linked correctly and meet all the strict financial and relationship requirements for a successful outcome.

Eligibility: Can You Bring Your Family to the UK?

The eligibility for bringing dependants is now linked to the level and type of your course. This is a recent and critical rule change.

You are only eligible to bring your partner and children if you are:

1. A government-sponsored student on a course lasting longer than 6 months.
2. A full-time student on a postgraduate course that is 9 months or longer, and the course is one of the following:
   1. A PhD or other doctorate degree (RQF level 8).
   1. A research-based higher degree (for example, a Master’s by Research).

Important: Due to rule changes effective from 1 January 2024, students on taught Master’s courses are generally no longer eligible to bring dependants.

Who Qualifies as a Dependant?

A dependant can be:

• Your husband, wife, or civil partner.
• Your unmarried partner (you must prove you have been in a durable, cohabiting relationship).
• Your child under 18 years old.

You must provide official evidence of your relationship, such as a marriage certificate for your partner or a birth certificate for your child.

The Financial Requirement for Your Dependants

Your partner and children must prove they have enough money to support themselves in the UK. This is in addition to the funds you need for your own tuition fees and living costs.

How Much Money Do They Need?

Each dependant must have a set amount of funds available, calculated for a period of up to nine months.

• For courses in London: £845 per month, per dependant (total of £7,605).
• For courses outside London: £680 per month, per dependant (total of £6,120).

The Critical 28-Day Rule

Just like with your own student visa, the required funds for your dependants must have been held in a bank account for at least 28 consecutive days. The end date of this period must be within 31 days of their visa application date.

Our experts will meticulously check your family’s financial documents to ensure they meet this strict rule, avoiding a common reason for refusal.

Applying for a Dependant Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your family must complete their own separate online applications, but they will be linked to yours.

• Application Forms: They must use the specific online forms for a ‘partner’ or ‘child’ of a Student.
• Your Application Number: They will need your unique application number (a GWF or UAN) to link their applications to yours.
• Identity Verification: Just like you, they will either use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or attend an appointment at a visa application centre (VAC) to provide their biometric information.
• Fees: Each dependant must pay the £524 visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Children Born in the UK

If you have a child while you are studying in the UK, they are not automatically a British citizen. To travel in and out of the UK with them, you must apply for a Dependant Visa for them from within the UK. You will need their full UK birth certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Dependant Visas

Q: How long will my family’s visa be valid for?
A: If their applications are successful, their visas will be granted with the same end date as your Student Visa.

Q: Can my partner work in the UK?
A: Yes, the dependant partner of a Student is generally permitted to work in the UK with very few restrictions.

Q: What if my family is already in the UK on another visa?
A: They may be able to switch to a Dependant Visa from within the UK, provided they are not on a visitor visa or another short-term route. They must apply before their current visa expires.

Ensure Your Family Can Join You – Let Our Experts Help

Bringing your family to the UK involves complex, interlinked applications where one mistake can affect everyone. Our experienced advisors manage the entire process for you and your dependants.

• We ensure eligibility under the new, stricter rules.
• We conduct a full financial document check for the entire family.
• We manage and link all online applications to ensure they are processed together.

Extend Your UK Student Visa: Your Expert Guide to Continuing Your Studies

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:

1. At a higher academic level than your current course (e.g., moving from a Bachelor’s to a Master’s).
2. 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.
3. 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.

Switch to a UK Student Visa: In-Country Application Guidance

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:

1. Be Physically in the UK: You must submit your application from within the UK.
2. Hold a Valid CAS: You must have an unconditional offer and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed student sponsor.
3. 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.