Securing a UK Student Visa is essential for international students admitted to study at a British educational institution. Following recent developments, the visa process has undergone significant changes, particularly after Brexit, affecting EU and EEA students planning to study in the UK.
Transition to the Student Route Visa
The UK introduced the Student Route Visa on October 4, 2020, replacing the previous Tier 4 (General) Student Visa. Notably, this new visa option accommodates EEA nationals who, prior to Brexit, didn’t require a visa for studying in the UK.
According to the British Government, the Student Route Visa comes with an unlimited allocation of visas for eligible students.
Key Changes in the UK Student Visa
Several notable changes took effect after October 5, 2020:
- Two Routes: The visa now comprises the Student Route (for individuals aged 18 and above) and the Child Student Route (for those aged 4-17), replacing the former Tier 4 Child Student Visa.
- EU/EEA Nationals: Students from EU/EEA countries are now required to obtain a visa if they plan to enter the UK after January 1, 2021.
- Extended Application Window: Applicants can now apply for the Student Visa up to six months before their course commencement, doubling the previous application window of three months.
- Points-Based System: Visa eligibility hinges on accumulating 70 points through the Points-Based System.
- Post-Graduate Visa Option: Graduates from British educational institutions after Summer 2021 can apply for a post-graduate visa, granting a potential work period of up to 2 years in the UK.
- Continued Requirements: Certain prerequisites like English proficiency and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) remain unchanged from the previous Tier 4 Student Visa requirements.
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Essential Information for EU/EEA Students
Starting January 1, 2021, EU/EEA students intending to enter the UK must obtain a Student Visa. If you’re already in the UK before this date, applying for the EU Settlement Scheme is necessary.
Eligibility for UK Student Visa
Both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA nationals can apply for the UK Student Visa by accumulating 70 points through the Point-Based System. To meet these requirements, consider the following:
- Acceptance into an Approved Institution: Obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the educational institution.
- Financial Capability: Demonstrate financial resources covering course fees and living expenses. For London, the requirement is £1,265 per month, while outside London, it’s £1,015 per month. Dependents require approximately £800 per month each.
- English Proficiency: Pass an approved English Proficiency Test. B2 level for degree-level courses or above, and B1 level for courses below degree level.
- Course Criteria: Ensure your course meets the specified requirements:
- Full-time below degree-level courses (RQF level 3, 4, or 5).
- Full-time degree-level or above courses (RQF level 6, 7, 8).
- Part-time courses above RQF 7 (Postgraduate, Masters, or Doctorate).
- Approved programs for postgraduate doctors or dentists.
- English language courses at B2 level or higher.
Application Process for UK Student Visa
Begin the application up to six months before your course start date if outside the UK. Start by completing the online application on the UK Government website, then visit a Visa Application Center in your country to submit biometrics.
Upon acceptance by your educational provider, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. Use this reference number during your online registration. After applying online, follow further instructions based on your country of residence.
Child Student Visa applicants require parental or guardian consent.
Switching to a UK Student Visa
If you’re already in the UK on certain visas (excluding specific categories like visit visas, short-term student visas, etc.), you can switch to a Student Visa. Ensure your current visa is valid and you’ve been accepted into an approved institution. Apply for the switch up to three months before your course begins.
UK Student Visa Processing Times
Processing times vary based on application location:
- Applying from outside the UK: Expect a decision in about 3 weeks.
- Applying within the UK (switching to Student Visa): It may take approximately 8 weeks for a decision.
UK Visa Fees and Financial Obligations
The fees for a UK Student Visa are as follows:
- £348 when applying from outside the UK.
- £475 for extending or switching to a Student Visa from within the UK.
- Separate fees for each accompanying family member are applicable.
In addition to the visa fee, you must demonstrate financial capability to support yourself:
- £1,265 per month for studying in London (up to nine months).
- £1,015 per month for studying outside London (up to nine months).
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Essential Documents for UK Student Visa Application
When applying for a UK Student Visa, prepare the following documents:
- Valid passport.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your educational institution.
- Proof of adequate financial resources for yourself and family.
- Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate (if applicable).
- Criminal record certificate.
- Evidence of English language proficiency.
- Tuberculosis test results.
For students under 18:
- Proof of parental consent.
- Evidence of your relationship with your parent or legal guardian.
- Any additional documents are required during the application process, such as a cover letter for the student visa.
Duration and Extensions of UK Student Visa
The validity of the UK Student Visa aligns with the duration of your enrolled course. For adult students in degree-level courses, the visa can last up to five years; for below degree-level courses, it’s granted for two years.
Yes, you can extend a UK Student Visa by enrolling in a higher-level course or under the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa. Applications for extensions should not be made earlier than three months before the new course starts.
Post-Study Opportunities: Staying in the UK After Studies
Starting from Summer 2021, graduates of undergraduate degrees can apply for the Graduate Visa, permitting a stay of up to two years in the UK for work or job hunting. PhD graduates may stay for up to three years. Suitable job offers obtained during this period can facilitate a switch to other immigration categories, like a UK Work Visa.
Can I Work With a UK Student Visa?
Yes, international students in the UK can work under specific terms. Job opportunities, such as student union sabbatical officer roles, are available, but claiming public benefits and pensions isn’t permissible. Eligibility for work depends on the course, study schedule, and term-time or break employment.
Certain jobs like professional sports roles or self-employment are restricted under this visa category.
Can I bring Dependents With a UK Student Visa?
Students can bring their dependents to the UK, including:
- Spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner.
- Dependent children under 18.
Each individual must demonstrate financial sufficiency:
- £845 per month (up to 9 months) for courses in London.
- £680 per month (up to 9 months) for courses outside London.
Understanding the intricacies of UK Student Visas and their associated benefits is essential for international students planning to study and reside in the UK along with their families.
Frequently Asked Questions About UK Student Visas
What do I need to know about UK Student visa?
- To apply for a UK Student visa, you must be 16 or older, have a place in a course by a licensed student sponsor, possess enough funds to support yourself and cover your course expenses, and demonstrate proficiency in English.
What are the important documents for UK Student visa?
- Essential Student Visa Documents:
- Passport or travel document
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Police registration certificate (for UK applications)
- Tuberculosis test certificate (for applications outside the UK)
- Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
What do I need to bring to the airport for a Student visa UK?
- Documents for Airport Arrival:
- Passport with student visa
- ID card (if applicable)
- Offer letter from the educational institution
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) documents
- Evidence of funding (sponsor letter or bank statement)
What questions do immigration officers ask at the airport UK for Student visa?
- Immigration Questions for Students:
- Reasons for pursuing higher education in the UK
- Choice of college/university
- Financial support details
- Previous academic background
- Parent’s occupations
What do Nigerian students need to study in the UK?
- Nigerian students require an internationally recognized English language qualification (e.g., IELTS) or equivalent. Alternatively, an English Grade C or above in the West African Senior School Certificate is accepted.
What are the new rules for UK Student visa 2024?
- Starting January 2024, international students in the UK can no longer bring dependents, except for those enrolled in postgraduate research programs. Additionally, students can no longer switch to work visas unless they complete their courses.
What do UK immigration officers check?
- Immigration officers check passports, visas, and entry clearances. Make sure to follow Home Office guidance and join the correct queue at border control.
What do you need for UK student visa from Nigeria?
- Nigerian students need 70 points for a short-term study visa in the UK. This includes 50 points for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and 10 points for meeting financial requirements.
How can I pass UK student visa interview?
- Success in a UK student visa interview involves a thorough understanding of entry requirements. Ensure all necessary documents, including the acceptance letter and proof of financial capability, are well-prepared.
Is interview compulsory for UK Student visa in Nigeria?
- A UK student visa interview is not mandatory for all applicants. The necessity depends on the legitimacy of the application and document authenticity.
Can I bring my spouse under a student visa in the UK?
- Since January 2024, international students can’t bring dependents unless enrolled in a postgraduate research program.
What happens if I work over 20 hours on a student visa UK?
- Full-time degree students in the UK cannot work over 20 hours per week during term time. Exceeding this limit may breach the visa terms.
What documents do students usually need to give the immigration officer at the UK border?
- Common Student Visa Documents:
- Passport
- CAS qualifications
- English language evidence
- Translations
- Proof of finances
- Letter of consent from the government sponsor
- Proof of the relationship with parents or guardians
Do UK visa officers check bank statements?
- Yes, the UKVI checks financial evidence, and inaccurate or unverified statements may lead to visa refusal.
Can I get CAS without an interview?
- While not obligatory, some universities conduct pre-CAS interviews to ensure applicants are genuine students before issuing the CAS letter.
How much can a student earn in the UK per month?
- Part-time students in the UK, aged 18-20, can earn £7.49 per hour, and those aged 21 and over can earn £10.18 per hour.
Why CAS gets rejected?
- CAS rejection often results from incorrect financial documents. Reapplying with correct documents is typically successful.
Why CAS rejected?
- CAS rejection reasons may include incorrect information, failure to clear pre-CAS interviews, or insufficient funds.
Which part-time job is best for students in the UK?
- Popular Part-time Jobs for Students:
- Retail Assistant
- Receptionist
- Tutoring
- Customer Service Representative
- Library Assistant
- Data Entry Clerk
- Food Delivery Driver
- Barista