Student VISA

Student Visas in the UK

Types of Student Visas in the UK

In the UK, there are three main types of student visas:

1. Student Visa: This visa is for individuals aged 16 or over who wish to study at a UK university, college, or other educational institution. To apply, you’ll need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor, proof of English proficiency, and evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses.
2. Standard Visitor Visa (For Study Purposes): The Standard Visitor Visa (formerly Short-term Study Visa) is now the appropriate visa for individuals planning to visit the UK for up to 6 months. This visa allows for temporary stays in the UK, covering a range of activities, including short-term study. Eligibility requires confirmation of enrolment, proof of English proficiency, and evidence of financial means.
3. Short-term Study Visa: This visa is specifically for individuals planning to study English language courses in the UK, for a duration longer than 6 months and up to 11 months. It is suitable for students who wish to undertake short-term study but do not intend to stay longer or work in the UK.

UK Student Visa Requirements

To qualify for a UK Student Visa, you must meet several key requirements:

• Age: Applicants must be 16 years or older.
• Course Offer: You need an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor for an approved course.
• English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English proficiency at CEFR Level B2 for degree-level courses or B1 for courses below degree level.
• Financial Evidence: Show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses without relying on public funds.
• Parental Consent: If aged 16 or 17, parental or guardian consent is mandatory.

Standard Visitor Visa (Study Purposes) Requirements

To qualify for a Standard Visitor Visa for study purposes, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a visa national, or if not, meet the entry requirements upon arrival in the UK.
• Have a genuine reason for visiting, such as participating in a short-term study course or research.
• Satisfy the specific eligibility criteria related to your intended study.
• Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the UK.
• Commit to leaving the UK at the end of your visit and not attempt to stay longer through frequent visits or by making the UK your main residence.

Short-term Study Visa Requirements

To qualify for a Short-term Study Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Course Type: You must be enrolled in an English language course lasting no longer than 11 months.
• Financial Evidence: You must show proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
• Proof of Study: You need to provide a letter of acceptance from the educational institution, detailing your course and confirming that you have been accepted.
• Travel Plans: You must demonstrate that you intend to leave the UK at the end of your study period and that you have the means to do so, such as a return or onward travel ticket.

Application Process & Our Services

The application process for a student visa can be complex, and it is important to ensure that you meet all the requirements before submitting your application. At Axis Solicitors, we can guide you through the entire application process, from assessing your eligibility to preparing and submitting your application. 

At Axis Solicitors, we offer convenient and affordable legal services to help you throughout this process.

Our services include:

• Eligibility Assessment: We evaluate your qualifications and advise you on the best visa option.
• Application Preparation: We assist in gathering and preparing all necessary documentation to meet UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements.
• Representation: Our experienced solicitors represent you in any issues that arise during the process.
• Follow-up: We keep you updated on your application’s progress and any related matters.

UK Student Visa Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a UK Student Visa, you must meet the following essential criteria:

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 16 years old.
• Course Offer: You must hold an unconditional offer for an approved course from a licensed student sponsor.
• English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English. For degree-level courses and above, you need proficiency at CEFR Level B2; for courses below degree level, CEFR Level B1 is required.
• Financial Stability: You must show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and pay for your course without needing to access public funds.
• Parental Consent: If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must provide written consent from your parent(s) or legal guardian.

Course Requirements

You can apply for a Student Visa to study the following types of courses:

• Full-Time Courses Below Degree Level: These courses should lead to a qualification at RQF Levels 3-5 and must involve a minimum of 15 hours per week of organised daytime study.
• Full-Time Courses at Degree Level or Higher: Courses that lead to qualifications at RQF Levels 6-8.
• Equivalent Overseas Courses: Full-time degree-level courses (RQF Levels 6-8) that are part of a longer overseas qualification but are equivalent to a UK higher education course.
• Part-Time Courses Above Degree Level: These courses must lead to a qualification at RQF Level 7 or higher.
• Recognised Foundation Programmes: Specifically for postgraduate doctors or dentists who have completed a recognized UK degree in medicine or dentistry, received from a registered student sponsor, and have spent their final year and at least one other year of study in the UK.
• English Language Courses: Courses at CEFR Level B2 or higher within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Place of Study Requirements

Typically, all studies must be conducted at the premises of your licensed student sponsor or at an approved partner institution. 

Exceptions to this rule include:

• Course-Related Work Placements: These allow practical training that is part of your course.
• Study Abroad Programmes: If part of your course requires you to study overseas, this is permitted under certain conditions.
• Pre-Sessional Courses: Short courses taken before your main course of study begins can also be held at locations other than your sponsor’s premises.

Note: Specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. It is highly recommended to consult with an immigration solicitor for personalised advice to ensure your application meets all necessary criteria.

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) 

After securing an unconditional offer for your course, your education provider will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number. It is crucial to apply for your Student Visa within six months of receiving this CAS.

Here are important details regarding the CAS:

• Single-use only: The CAS reference number is unique and cannot be reused. It must not have been utilised in any previous visa application, regardless of whether that application was successful or refused.
• Validity of the Offer: The educational institution’s offer must remain valid. If the institution withdraws its offer, the CAS becomes invalid, and your visa application will not be approved.
• Required Information: The CAS must include specific details about your course, including the level of study, the location of the institution, and comprehensive financial information such as tuition fees, accommodation costs, and any payments you have already made. It must also document how you have met the English language proficiency requirement.

These details ensure that your CAS is accurate and valid, which is essential for a successful Student Visa application.

Financial Requirements

To obtain a UK Student Visa, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover both your course fees and living expenses during your stay in the UK.

Course Fees

• General Requirement: You must show that you have enough funds to cover one academic year of your course (up to 9 months). If your course duration includes a partial month, this period will be rounded up to the next full month.
• Offsetting Paid Fees: If you’ve already paid some or all of your course fees, the amount can be deducted from the total funds you need to demonstrate. This payment must be confirmed on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) or supported by a receipt from your sponsor.
• Accommodation Deposit: If you have paid a deposit for accommodation to your sponsor, this can also be deducted from the total amount required, up to a maximum of £1,265.

Living Costs

• Monthly Amounts: You must prove you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses for each month of your course, up to a maximum of nine months. The required amount depends on your location in the UK:
  • Inner London: £1,334 per month.
  • Outside London: £1,023 per month.
• Doctorate Extension Scheme: If you are applying under the Doctorate Extension Scheme, you must show a total of £2,530 if studying in London, or £2,030 if studying outside London.
• Evidence of Funds: You need to have held the required funds for at least 28 consecutive days, with the final balance not more than 31 days before your visa application date.
• Dependents: If you have dependents applying to join you in the UK, additional funds will be required to support them.

Exemptions

Certain applicants are automatically considered to have met the financial requirements and may not need to provide evidence of funds:

• Existing Leave: Applicants who have been in the UK with valid leave for at least 12 months prior to their visa application.
• Student Union Sabbatical Officers: Those elected to this full-time role.
• Postgraduate Doctors or Dentists: Those enrolled in a recognized foundation program.
• British Nationals (Overseas) and nationals from countries subject to the ‘differential evidence requirement’ (though it’s advisable to have the necessary funds available, as UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) may request proof).

For the most current and accurate information, always consult official sources or seek advice from our qualified immigration solicitors.

English Language Requirements

To qualify for a UK Student Visa, you must demonstrate your proficiency in the English language, which is essential for your studies.

Required Levels

• CEFR Level B2: Required if you are studying at degree level or above (RQF Level 6 and higher).
• CEFR Level B1: Required if you are studying below degree level (RQF Level 3-5).
• Secure English Language Test (SELT): In most cases, you must pass a SELT from an approved provider to prove your English language proficiency.

Exemptions

You may be exempt from the English language test if you meet one of the following conditions:

• Nationality: You are a national of a majority English-speaking country, such as the USA, Australia, or New Zealand.
• Educational Background: You have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree that was taught in English in a majority English-speaking country.
• Canadian Nationals: You are a Canadian national (except for those from Quebec, where French is the predominant language).
• US Study Abroad Program: You are applying for a study abroad program as part of a degree course at a US university.
• Previous UK Visa: You have already proven your English proficiency in a previous successful UK visa application.

These requirements ensure that you have the necessary language skills to succeed in your studies in the UK. 

Applying for a UK Student Visa

When to Apply

• From Outside the UK: You should apply no more than 6 months before your course start date. This ensures you have ample time for processing and any potential follow-up requirements.
• From Inside the UK: You should apply at least 3 months before your course begins, and your course must start within 28 days of your current visa expiring. This timing is important to maintain your legal status in the UK.

Processing Times

• From Outside the UK: You can expect a decision on your visa application within 3 weeks from the date of submission.
• From Inside the UK: The decision process typically takes up to 8 weeks. Ensure you apply early to avoid any disruption to your studies.

UK Student Visa Fees

Application Fees

• £490 to apply for a Student Visa from outside the UK.
• £490 to extend or switch to a Student Visa from inside the UK.

Healthcare Surcharge

In addition to the visa fee, you will need to pay a healthcare surcharge as part of your application. The amount you need to pay depends on the length of your visa. Be sure to check the exact surcharge amount before you apply.

Supporting Documents 

Documents For a Successful UK Student Visa Application

To ensure a successful UK Student Visa application, provide all the required supporting documents. These documents are integral to demonstrating your eligibility and readiness to study in the UK. 

Below is a list of the required documents, but schedule a consultation with our solicitors to verify if additional documentation would be beneficial in your situation.

1. Valid Passport or Travel Document

• You must provide a current and valid passport or travel document. Ensure that it is up-to-date and will remain valid throughout your stay in the UK.

2. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

• Your educational institution will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is a mandatory document for your visa application. This letter confirms your acceptance into the course and includes essential details about your studies.

3. Proof of Financial Support

• You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses while in the UK. This can be shown through bank statements or other financial documents that clearly indicate your financial stability.

4. Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate

• If your course requires ATAS clearance, you must obtain an ATAS certificate and include it with your application. This applies to certain sensitive fields of study.

5. Medical Reports (Tuberculosis Test Results)

• If you are applying from a country where Tuberculosis (TB) testing is required, you must include a TB test certificate as part of your application.

6. Parental/Guardian Consent (if applicable)

• If you are under 18, you must provide a letter of consent from your parent(s) or legal guardian(s). This letter should confirm their approval of your study, living, and travel arrangements in the UK.

7. Additional documents

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents.

• • Academic transcripts and qualifications: To demonstrate previous academic achievements.
  • Police clearance certificates (if required).
  • Proof of relationship to dependents (if applicable)

8. Document Translations

• Any document not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation. The translation should include the translator’s full name, contact details, and a statement confirming the accuracy of the translation. Include both the original document and the translation in your application.

Importance of Correct Documentation

Providing these documents accurately and in full from the outset significantly enhances the likelihood of your UK Student Visa application being approved.

Student Graduate Route

The UK government has introduced the Graduate route visa for the students to develop their participation in the job market of the UK.

• The Graduate Route is available to international students who have been awarded a degree at undergraduate level or above at a Higher Education Provider with a track record of compliance.
• You must have a valid Student visa at the time of application.
• If your Student permission expires before 1 July 2021, you will not be eligible to apply (unless you can extend your Student permission first, and meet the other requirements).
• You can only apply from inside the UK.

Our UK Student Visa Services

At Axis Solicitors, we provide expert assistance to guide you through the entire UK Student Visa application process. Our dedicated team of immigration solicitors is here to ensure that every aspect of your application is meticulously prepared and presented to maximise your chances of success. 

Our Services Includes:

• Eligibility Assessment: We begin by thoroughly assessing your individual circumstances to determine your eligibility for the UK Student Visa. We ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria before proceeding with your application.
• Guidance on Document Preparation: Our solicitors will advise you on the specific documents required to support your visa application. This includes providing clear guidance on how to gather and present your financial proof, academic records, and other essential documents.
• Document Review: We meticulously review all your documents to ensure they meet the UK Immigration Rules. This step is crucial to avoid any potential issues that could delay your application.
• Application Strength Analysis: We identify both strengths and potential weaknesses in your application. Our solicitors provide strategic advice to bolster your application, addressing any concerns before submission.
• Completion and Review of Application Forms: Our team will complete your online visa application form on your behalf. We will share a draft with you to review and ensure all details are correct before submission.
• Submission and Biometric Appointment Coordination: We handle the submission of your visa application and schedule your biometric appointment with the relevant UKVI partner, ensuring a seamless process.
• Comprehensive Cover Letter: We prepare a detailed cover letter that explains how your application meets all the requirements of the UK Immigration Rules. This letter is designed to enhance the clarity and strength of your application.
• Document Submission and Organisation: Our solicitors ensure that all supporting documents are uploaded in the correct format and order, making it easier for Home Office caseworkers to assess your application.
• Management of Home Office Correspondence: We take care of all communication with the Home Office, responding promptly to any requests for additional information or documents.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Updates: Throughout the process, we provide continuous updates and follow-up on your visa application, keeping you informed until a final decision is made.

We are committed to making the UK Student Visa application process as successful as possible. Trust us to handle your application with the expertise and attention to detail it deserves, allowing you to focus on your future studies in the UK.