Student Visas

Every year, the UK government accepts thousands of international students who have successfully gained a visa to study in the United Kingdom and the limit on the number of issued student visa is not restricted. However, the Home Office of the UK government manages the UK immigration and visas and more information can be acquired from the UK Visas and Immigration website.

English language tests

An English language test may need to be taken by some students who are applying for a Tier 4 (General) visa as part of their application process. It is important to note that changes may occur on the UK Government guidelines and regulations that are on the secure English language test (SELT) providers. These changes may affect the tests an individual takes to meet visa requirements depending on where the individual is from and the type of course he/she is studying. Any English language requirements established by the individual’s university or college may also be affected by these changes.

IHS Surcharge

A further NHS health surcharge of £150 per year needs to be paid by the applicant if he or she is applying for a visa to the UK for more than six months. This is also applicable to students applying from within and outside the UK. For additional details, please see the UKCISA website. For full official information, see the Gov.uk website.

Tier 4 Frequently asked questions

Is a visa needed for an individual to study in the UK?

The need to acquire a visa to study in the UK is determined by the Immigration status and nationality of the applicant or individual. For more information, check the following website: www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

The application process involve the following:-

• The applicant will need to make available documentary evidence showing maintenance funds;
• The applicant will be required to enroll his/her biometric information or be present for an interview;
• He/she may also be expected to take an English Language Test.

A decision on the student visa should be made within three weeks. For more information on how long it takes for an individual to get a visa in their country, check the UK Visas and Immigration guide to processing times.

What kind of Tier 4 visa do I need

An individual who wants to study a short course or an English language course for up to eleven months in the UK can apply for the following visas:

• Short-term student visa: An individual looking to study for up to six months in the UK can apply if he or she is aged eighteen and above. An extended visa of eleven months can be applied for if he or she wants to join an English language course.
• Short-term student (child) visa: An individual who wants to study in the UK for a period of six months can apply for a visa if he or she is aged from seventeen or younger.

A student who wants to study for a longer course in the UK can apply for the following two visas:

• Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa: An individual can apply for this type of visa if he/she is between the ages of four and seventeen years of age. An individual can also apply for this visa if he/she is between the ages of four and fifteen years of age and must be coming to the UK for education at an independent fee-paying school.
• Tier 4 (General) Student Visa: An individual who wants to study in the UK can apply for this type of visa if they are from ages sixteen and above and certain eligible requirements are met.