This guide explains the UK Student visa route for applicants aged 16+ who have an offer from a licensed education provider. We set out what the visa allows, who qualifies, how to apply, and practical tips to strengthen your application. This route replaced Tier 4.
Section A: What is a Student Visa?
The Student visa enables non‑UK/Irish nationals to study at recognised UK institutions on eligible courses. Most students will need this visa to start undergraduate, postgraduate or doctoral study. The visa can also cover some part‑time study at level 7+ where work is not permitted. Applicants must hold an unconditional offer from a licensed sponsor and meet English language and financial requirements.
Students can typically work up to 20 hours per week in term time and full‑time in vacations (10 hours per week if studying below degree level). Part‑time Student route holders cannot work. Since January 2024, dependants can only accompany students who are government‑sponsored or studying a PhD/doctorate or a research‑based master’s (RQF 8 or RQF 7 research). After completing studies, many graduates can apply to the Graduate Route to remain in the UK to work or look for work.
Section B: Student Visa Eligibility Requirements
Requirements are set out in Appendix Student. Applicants aged 16+ must be genuine students and score 70 points based on course offer (CAS), finances and English language.
You’ll normally meet the points requirement if all of the following apply:
- Offer from a licensed student sponsor and a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) – 50 points.
- dequate funds to pay tuition fees and living costs – 10 points.
- English language at the required CEFR level – 10 points.
- The CAS must be used within six months of issue.
Eligible course types include:
- Full‑time study below degree level (RQF 3–5) with at least 15 hours per week of organised daytime study.
- Full‑time study at degree level or above (RQF 6–8).
- A UK‑equivalent degree‑level course delivered as part of an overseas programme.
- Part‑time study at RQF 7+ (no work allowed, including placements).
- English language course at CEFR B2 or above.
- Recognised foundation programmes for postgraduate doctors or dentists.
- Full‑time elected role as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer.
1) Points Requirement (Total 70)
Applicants must reach 70 points under Appendix Student by meeting sponsorship, finance and English criteria.
Maintenance requirement (funds):
You must show funds for tuition fees (for one academic year or the full course if shorter) as stated on your CAS, plus living costs for up to nine months. The monthly amount depends on study location: currently £1,334 per month in London and £1,023 per month outside London. If boarding at a residential independent school, you must show fees and boarding costs. Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days ending no more than 31 days before application. Evidence of a student loan or official financial sponsorship is acceptable. You may be exempt from evidencing funds if you’ve held valid UK permission for at least 12 months, are a Student Union Sabbatical Officer, a postgraduate doctor or dentist on a recognised foundation programme, or you’re from an exempt country (always ensure you genuinely hold sufficient funds).
English language requirement:
Most applicants must prove English via an approved SELT or as assessed by a Higher Education Provider. Below degree level requires CEFR B1; degree level and above requires CEFR B2. Proof is not needed if you are a national of a majority English‑speaking country, completed a degree‑equivalent qualification in such a country, are on a US study‑abroad programme, or have already proven English at the required level in a prior application.
Section C: How to Apply for a UK Student Visa
Apply online using your CAS reference and pay the fee. Apply within six months of receiving your CAS. Fees are currently £524 for applications made outside the UK and £524 to extend or switch inside the UK. You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), currently £776 per year for students.
Timing: From overseas, you can apply up to six months before the course starts; from inside the UK, up to three months before. Your new course must begin within 28 days of your current permission expiring. For identity, you’ll either attend a visa application centre for biometrics or use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app, depending on your nationality and passport. Standard processing is usually around three weeks, though this can vary. Successful applicants receive a digital status they can access and share online.
Section D: Student Visa Supporting Documents
- Valid passport or travel document.
- CAS from your education provider.
- Financial evidence for tuition and living costs (unless exempt).
- Parental/guardian consent and proof of relationship if under 18.
- Sponsor consent if you were financially sponsored for a completed course within the last 12 months.
- ATAS certificate where required by the course (Appendix ATAS).
- TB test certificate if applicable (see Appendix T).
- Any additional documents relevant to your circumstances.
Section E: Extending a Student Visa UK
How long you can stay depends on course length and prior study. At degree level (18+), permission is generally up to five years; below degree level, usually up to two years. You may be able to extend to continue studies or switch into the Student route from another category if eligible. If you hold status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you won’t need a Student visa to study or to work after your course.
Section F: Summary
Success on the Student route depends on meeting the rules precisely: a valid CAS, sufficient funds, and the required English level. Prepare a complete, consistent application to avoid delays or refusal. Budget for tuition, living costs and the IHS. Comply with visa conditions on work and attendance to protect your status and any future applications.
