Going to study in the UK is a great way to earn a reputable degree in any field of study. Getting a UK study visa is the start.
Moreover, the UK is one of the most culturally diverse places in the world. That’s because the UK is very welcoming and many international students are resident here.
Chances are you’ll bump into someone from your country in the UK. Its that welcoming.
Also, the UK is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. That’s why more than 400,000 international students enrol UK schools each year.
Since you want to study in the UK, you could add to that number once you enrol.
But then, you can’t study in UK without a study visa as an international student. This blog contains simple steps you should take to get a UK student visa.
First things first, let me give you a heads up.
You need a visa to study in the UK. The UK student visa is also known as Tier 4 study visa.
In other words, if studying in UK for a degree is your plan, then a Tier 4 study visa is what you need. And this blog answers all questions concerning getting UK study visa.
Who can apply for UK student visa?
Not everyone is qualified to be granted a visa to study in the UK. There are certain criteria you must meet.
According to the United Kingdom Visa and Immigration (UKVI), you can apply for UK study visa if meet the following set conditions.
1. You are 16 years and above
You are not eligible to apply for UK study visa if you are not at least 16 years old. That’s because you can’t attend a university or college before 16.
And a study visa is for students who are going to the UK for a university or college degree.
Also, you will need consent from your parents to apply for a UK student visa if you are 16 or 17. In fact you might be required to show evidence that you have permission from your parents to study in the UK.
2. You have been offered admission by a school
Having an offer of admission on a course from a UK university or college qualifies you to apply for UK student visa.
There is no other way to go about getting a Tier 4 study visa if you don’t have an admission offer.
One of the requirements to get a visa to study in the UK is Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS). And CAS is issued by a university or college once you have been offered admission.
You will need CAS to apply for a UK student visa. Check out how to apply to a UK university.
3. You can speak and understand English
English is the language of communication in the UK. And you are eligible for UK student visa if you can read, write, understand, and speak English.
If English is not the primary language in your country, you might need to take an English language test score (such as IELTS, TOEFL) to show English proficiency.
You won’t be able to apply for a UK study visa without showing you will have no problems communicating in the UK.
What documents do I need to apply for UK student visa?
The following documents are required to apply for a visa to study in UK.
- International passport: its obtained from your home country as a form of national identity.
- Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS): once you have been given admission, your school sends you a CAS.
- Consent letter: If you are under 18 years old, you may need to submit a letter of consent from your parents/guardian approving your wish to study in the UK.
- Proof of finance: you may need to submit financial documents that show you can support your studies in the UK. Alternatively, a letter of support from a sponsor can be used.
If you don’t have enough finance to study for a degree in the UK, you can apply for scholarships. Many international students rely on scholarships to study in the UK.
Now that you know who can apply for a study visa to study in UK, you are interested in how to go about it.
So if you confirm you meet the eligibility above, then you can proceed to apply for a UK study visa.
How much is UK student visa application visa?
According to the UK Visas and Immigration, it costs £348 to apply for a student visa.
How can I get a UK student visa?
Here are 6 simple steps to obtain a UK study visa online.
1. Go to UKVI application page
2. Enter your email address.
3. Create a password.
4. Re-enter the password.
5. Click ‘save and continue’
6. You will immediately receive a mail on the email you submit. Click on the link in it to continue your visa application.
The single most important thing about applying for a UK student visa is being eligible. Once you are, chances are you’ll be granted a visa to attend a school in the UK.
Hope you liked this blog? You may also want to see a list of documents needed to study abroad.
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Maxwell is a Dietitian with passion for showing people hope. With nearly a decade experience helping people make key decisions on education and career, you can find him almost everywhere on this site. From answering admission and scholarship questions to creating tutorials and helping others live their best lives though nutrition. Connect with me on Twitter.