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Student Visa Overview

The Student visa is the main UK Visa for international students aged 16 or over who want to study a full-time course at a licensed UK student sponsor, such as a university, college, or school. To qualify, applicants need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from their education provider, evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs, and, for most applicants, evidence of English language ability. Students are also expected to demonstrate genuine intent to study, as caseworkers assess the overall credibility of the application, including academic progression and career plans. This visa permits limited part-time work during term time for most students and full-time work during scheduled vacations, subject to specific conditions. Approval is decided solely by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Student Visa Fees

Fee TypeGovernment Fee (GBP)
Student Visa Application Fee£558
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), per year (discounted rate)£776
3-Year Undergraduate Degree (Fee + approx. 3 Years 4 Months IHS)Approx. £3,274

The Student visa application fee applies to both entry clearance from outside the UK and in-country extensions. The IHS is charged at the discounted student rate of £776 per year and is calculated on the full visa length granted, which includes a small buffer period before and after the course dates. Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused. Exchange rates fluctuate, so INR values are approximate. Information may vary depending on individual circumstances; confirm the current fee at gov.uk before paying.

Student Visa Processing Time

Processing time for the UK Student Visa typically follows the standard three-week estimate for applications made from outside the UK, though this can vary by country and application volume. Students should apply only after receiving their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), and should time their application so their visa is granted with enough lead time before their course start date, since a Student visa cannot generally be issued more than a set number of months in advance of the course. Incomplete financial evidence or CAS details that don’t match the application are common causes of delay, so applicants should double-check all figures and dates before submitting.

Required Documents Checklist

Valid Passport
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) Reference Number
Evidence of Financial Support (bank statements meeting the required threshold for 28 consecutive days)
Evidence of English Language Proficiency (unless exempt)
Academic Qualifications and Transcripts
Immigration Health Surcharge Payment Confirmation
Parental or Guardian Consent (for applicants aged 16 or 17)
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate (if required for your country of residence)
ATAS Certificate (for certain postgraduate research subjects, if applicable)

Document requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and the visa application centre.

Student Visa Application Process

Receive an offer and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your UK education provider.
Complete the online Student visa application on gov.uk.
Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Provide evidence of your finances, English proficiency, and academic qualifications.
Book and attend a biometrics appointment, or use the identity verification app, as instructed.
Wait for processing, typically around three weeks.
Receive a decision electronically.
If approved, review your visa conditions, including permitted working hours, before travelling.

Important Notes

Visa approval depends solely on the decision of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
A valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is mandatory before applying.
The Student visa cannot generally be issued too far in advance of the course start date.
Part-time work during term time is limited to a set number of hours per week for most students.
The Immigration Health Surcharge is calculated on the full visa length, including a buffer period.
Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
Government fees are reviewed periodically and are subject to change.
Information may vary depending on the course level and individual circumstances.

Why Choose Shivansh Consultants

Applying for a UK Student Visa involves coordinating your CAS, detailed financial evidence, and English language documentation within specific timing rules. Shivansh Consultants offers documentation support to help you organise your finances, academic records, and CAS details accurately. Our thorough application review and personalised guidance are tailored to your specific course and provider, helping you avoid common timing and documentation errors. With a transparent process and experienced visa consultants, we provide end-to-end assistance throughout your UK Visa journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the UK Student Visa fee?
The application fee is £558, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge at £776 per year of visa length. A typical 3-year undergraduate degree costs approximately £3,274 in total government fees.
How long does UK Student Visa processing take?
Processing typically takes around three weeks from outside the UK, though this can vary by country and application volume. Apply as early as your CAS timing allows.
What documents are required for a UK Student Visa?
Key documents include your CAS reference number, evidence of financial support, English language proficiency evidence, and, in some cases, a TB test certificate or ATAS certificate.
Can I work while studying on a UK Student Visa?
Most students can work part-time during term and full-time during scheduled vacations, subject to specific hour limits and conditions set out in their visa grant.
Is the Student Visa fee refundable if refused?
No. The visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge are generally non-refundable if the application is refused, though the IHS may be refunded in limited circumstances.