United Kingdom Student Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Official Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) for degree-level study
- Access to World-class British Universities and research facilities
- Includes access to the National Health Service (NHS) via the Surcharge
- Eligibility for the 2-year Graduate Route post-study work visa
- Part-time work rights allowed for most degree-level students
- Streamlined 'Differentiation Arrangement' for many nationalities
- Priority processing available for urgent student applications
Processing time
15-21 working days (3 weeks)
Peak season (July-September) can lead to longer wait times. Priority services are available in most countries for an additional fee.
Estimated cost
~$1,600+ (Including 1yr Health Surcharge)
- Standard Application Fee (outside UK)£490 (~$625)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (per year)£776 (~$990)
- Priority/Super Priority Service (Optional)£200 - £500+
Requirements
- Must be 16 years of age or older
- Must have an unconditional offer from a licensed Student Sponsor
- Possession of a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Proven English language proficiency (CEFR level B1 or B2)
- Sufficient funds to pay for tuition and monthly living expenses
- Payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Genuine Student Requirement (possible interview)
- Clean criminal record and no previous immigration breaches
- Tuberculosis test certificate (where applicable)
- ATAS clearance if studying specific sensitive subjects
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport or travel document
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number
- Proof of financial support (bank statements)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if from a listed country)
- ATAS certificate (for specific research/science subjects)
- Parental consent letter (if under 18)
- Academic transcripts and certificates used for university entry
- English language proficiency test results (e.g. IELTS UKVI)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Receive your CAS
Receive your unconditional offer and obtain your unique Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number from your UK university.
- 2
Pay Health Surcharge
Determine your IHS fee based on your course length and pay it online through the official UK government portal.
- 3
Online Application
Fill out the online student visa application form, providing your CAS details, personal history, and financial proof.
- 4
Pay Application Fee
Pay the visa application fee (£490 for applications outside the UK) using a credit or debit card.
- 5
Book Biometrics Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and a photograph (biometrics).
- 6
Submit Documentation
Upload your supporting documents (financials, transcripts, etc.) to the online portal or bring them to your appointment.
- 7
Attend Interview (if required)
Some students may be asked to attend a short 'credibility interview' via video link to discuss their study plans and intentions.
- 8
Passport Collection
Await a decision; once approved, you will Receive a vignette in your passport or a digital status to travel to the UK.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your maintenance funds have been in your account for exactly 28 days or more; one day less results in automatic refusal.
- Double-check that your CAS details exactly match your passport and academic transcripts.
- If using a parent's bank account, you must provide your birth certificate and a written letter of consent from them.
- Do not apply more than 6 months before your course start date, as the CAS will not yet be valid for visa purposes.
- Prepare for a credibility interview by knowing your course modules, university location, and why you chose the UK.
- Translate any document not written in English or Welsh using an official, certified translator.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.