UK Student Visa
Expert Immigration Support for International Students
Our specialist education immigration solicitors provide comprehensive UK student visa services for international students. From initial applications to extensions and post-study work routes, we ensure successful applications meeting all financial and academic requirements. Contact us today: 0203 909 8399 | Book a Consultation
What Is A UK Student Visa?
The UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) enables international students aged 16 and over to study at licensed educational institutions in the UK. This points-based visa route covers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate programs, providing a pathway to world-class education and potential post-study work opportunities through the Graduate route.
When Do You Need A Student Visa?
You need a Student visa when:
- Studying a course longer than 6 months in the UK
- Pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees
- Attending English language courses (over 11 months)
- Enrolling in foundation or pre-sessional programs
- Switching from another visa category to study
- Extending your current student status
Financial Requirements 2025
Living Cost Requirements
Updated rates from January 2, 2025:
- London: £1,483 per month (previously £1,334)
- Outside London: £1,136 per month (previously £1,023)
- Calculate for up to 9 months maximum
- Boarding school students: Pay boarding fees instead
Total Funds Required
You must show funds for:
- First year’s tuition fees (or outstanding balance)
- Living costs for up to 9 months
- Course fees minus any deposits already paid
- Additional funds for each dependent
28-Day Rule
- Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days
- Bank statement must end within 31 days of application
- Cannot use money during the 28-day period
- Parents’ accounts acceptable with consent letter
Student Visa Categories
Student Route (16+ years)
- Degree level and above
- Below degree level courses
- English language courses
- Foundation programs
- Pre-sessional courses
Child Student Visa (4-17 years)
- Independent schools only
- Different financial requirements
- Parental consent required
- Care arrangements needed
Short-term Study Visa
- Courses up to 6 months
- English language up to 11 months
- Cannot extend or switch
- No work permitted
Academic Requirements
Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS)
- Valid CAS from licensed sponsor
- Confirms course details and fees
- States tuition deposits paid
- Used only once for application
- Valid for 6 months
English Language Requirements
- SELT from approved provider
- B2 level for degree courses
- B1 level for below degree
- Exemptions for certain nationalities
- Previous UK degree acceptable
Academic Qualifications
- Meet course entry requirements
- Provide transcripts and certificates
- ATAS certificate if required
- Genuine Student requirement
Work Rights and Restrictions
During Studies
- 20 hours per week during term time
- Full-time during holidays
- Course-related work placements
- Some jobs prohibited
- Self-employment not allowed
Post-Study Options
- Graduate Route (2-3 years)
- Skilled Worker visa switch
- Start-up/Innovator routes
- Global Talent visa
- Family visa if eligible
Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Receive unconditional offer from university
- Pay tuition deposit and get CAS
- Prepare financial documents
- Complete online application
- Pay visa fees and IHS surcharge
- Book biometric appointment
- Submit documents (if required)
- Await decision (usually 3 weeks)
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- CAS reference number
- Financial evidence
- Academic qualifications
- English language results
- TB test (if applicable)
- ATAS certificate (if needed)
- Parental consent (under 18)
Application Fees 2025
- Student visa from outside UK: £490
- Extension within UK: £827
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £776 per year
- Priority service: £500 extra
- Super Priority: £1,000 extra
Visa Conditions and Compliance
Academic Progression
- Maintain satisfactory attendance
- Progress academically
- Complete course within timeframe
- Report changes to sponsor
- Cannot repeat same level
Reporting Requirements
- Changes in circumstances
- Address updates
- Course changes
- Absence from studies
- Police registration (if required)
Extension and Switching
Extending Student Visa
- Apply before current visa expires
- New CAS required
- Show academic progression
- Meet financial requirements again
- Good immigration history
Switching to Student Visa
Eligible to switch from:
- Visitor visa (limited circumstances)
- Short-term study visa
- Dependent visas
- Some work visas
- Graduate route
Cannot switch from:
- Visit visa (standard)
- Short-term student visa
- Parent of child student
- Immigration bail
Bringing Dependents
Eligible Students
- Postgraduate (9+ months) at RQF 7
- Doctorate students
- Government-sponsored students
- Must prove additional funds
Dependent Requirements
- Spouse/partner relationship proof
- Children under 18
- Additional financial requirements
- London: £845 per month per dependent
- Outside: £680 per month per dependent
Common Refusal Reasons
Financial Issues
- Insufficient funds shown
- Money not held for 28 days
- Incorrect bank statements
- Funds not accessible
- Large unexplained deposits
Documentation Problems
- Invalid or expired CAS
- Missing documents
- Incorrect translations
- False information
- Genuine student concerns
Our Student Visa Services
Initial Applications
- CAS review and verification
- Financial requirement calculations
- Document preparation
- Application form completion
- Interview preparation
- Priority service guidance
Extensions and Switches
- Academic progression assessment
- New CAS applications
- Switching route advice
- Dependent applications
- Graduate route transitions
Problem Resolution
- Refusal appeals
- Administrative reviews
- Fresh applications
- Sponsor compliance issues
- Academic progression problems
Why Choose Connaught Law
- SRA regulated solicitors
- Education sector specialists
- University partnership experience
- Complex case expertise
- Same-day emergency service
- Multi-language support
Our Education Law Expertise
- Student visa specialists
- Institution compliance advisors
- Academic progression experts
- Graduate route specialists
- Appeals and judicial review
- Sponsor license advisors
Client Support Services
- Pre-arrival guidance
- Airport pickup assistance
- Bank account opening help
- Accommodation advice
- NHS registration support
- University liaison services
Next Steps
Secure your UK education journey with expert student visa assistance. Our specialist immigration solicitors guide international students through every stage, from initial applications to post-study work transitions. We ensure compliance with the latest 2025 requirements and maximize your chances of success. Call 0203 909 8399 or Book Online for comprehensive student visa support.
Priority services available for urgent applications. Fixed fees with payment plans. Free initial eligibility assessment.