How to get UK student visa online

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This guide explains how to get UK student visa online, including eligibility, documents, and key tips to improve your chances of approval.

Planning to study in the United Kingdom? You’re making an excellent choice. The UK hosts some of the world’s most prestigious universities and welcomes hundreds of thousands of international students every year. But before you can start your academic journey, there’s one essential step: securing your UK Student Visa.

How to Get UK Student Visa Online: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for International Students

The great news? The entire application process can be completed online from anywhere in the world. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a UK Student Visa in 2025, including the latest rule changes, updated fees, and step-by-step instructions to maximize your approval chances.

Whether you’re heading to Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, or any other UK institution, this guide has you covered.

What Is a UK Student Visa?

The UK Student Visa (formerly known as the Tier 4 General Student Visa) is an immigration permission that allows international students to study full-time courses in the United Kingdom for durations longer than six months. This visa category is designed for students aged 16 and above who have been offered a place at a UK educational institution with a valid Student Sponsor License.

Official UK Government Resource: www.gov.uk/student-visa

Who Needs a UK Student Visa?

You’ll need a Student Visa if you:

Are from outside the UK, Ireland, or countries with special immigration arrangements
Have received an unconditional offer from a licensed UK Student sponsor
Are 16 years old or older
Plan to study a course that lasts longer than 6 months
Want to work part-time during your studies (up to 20 hours per week during term time)

Student Visa vs Short-Term Study Visa

Understanding the difference between these two visa types is crucial:

Feature	Student Visa	Short-Term Study Visa
Course Duration	6+ months	Up to 6 months (11 months for English courses)
Work Permission	Yes (20 hrs/week in term)	No
Can Extend	Yes	No
Bring Dependants	Limited eligibility	No
Lead to Settlement	Potentially	No
Application Fee	£524	£115 (Standard Visitor Visa)

For degree programs, professional courses, and long-term studies, you’ll need the standard Student Visa covered in this guide.

UK Government Page for Short-term Study Visa: www.gov.uk/study-visit-visa

UK Student Visa Requirements (2025 Updated)

Before starting your online application, you must meet all essential requirements set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Missing even one requirement can result in delays or refusal.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

This is your most important document. Your UK university will issue a CAS reference number (a unique 14-digit code starting with ‘E’) once you’ve accepted their unconditional offer and paid any required deposit.

Key CAS Details:

Valid for only 6 months from issue date
Contains course details, fees, qualifications, and sponsor information
Must be from a licensed Student sponsor
Cannot be transferred to another applicant

UK Government CAS Information: Appendix Student – Immigration Rules

2. Valid Passport

Your passport must:

Be valid for the entire duration of your planned UK stay
Have at least one blank page for entry stamps
Match the name exactly as it appears on your CAS

3. English Language Requirement

You must demonstrate English proficiency through approved methods:

Proof Method	Acceptable Evidence	Minimum Level
SELT (Secure English Language Test)	IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, LanguageCert	CEFR B2 (typically IELTS 5.5+)
Degree in English	Degree taught entirely in English (from majority English-speaking country)	Equivalent to B2
Nationality Exemption	National of UK, USA, Canada, Australia, NZ, Ireland	Automatic exemption

UK Government English Language Requirements: www.gov.uk/student-visa/knowledge-of-english

4. Proof of Financial Maintenance (Updated November 2025)

This is one of the most critical requirements and has been recently updated.

From 11 November 2025, you must demonstrate increased funds:

Study Location	Monthly Living Costs	9-Month Total	Plus Tuition
London	£1,529/month	£13,761	+ Full year’s fees
Outside London	£1,171/month	£10,539	+ Full year’s fees

Critical 28-Day Rule:

Funds must be held continuously for 28 consecutive days
The 28th day must fall within 31 days of your visa application
Balance cannot drop below requirement even for one day
Applies to personal savings or sponsor’s account (with consent)

Example Calculations:

Scenario 1: Bachelor’s Degree Outside London

Tuition fees: £16,000/year
Living costs: £10,539 (9 months)
Total required: £26,539

Scenario 2: Master’s Degree in London

Tuition fees: £22,000/year
Living costs: £13,761 (9 months)
Total required: £35,761

London Institution Areas: City of London, Camden, Greenwich, Hackney, Hammersmith and Fulham, Haringey, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Lambeth, Lewisham, Newham, Southwark, Tower Hamlets, Wandsworth, Westminster

UK Government Financial Requirements: www.gov.uk/student-visa/money

5. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate

Required if you’re from a country where TB testing is mandatory and your course is longer than 6 months.

Countries requiring TB test include:

Asia: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, China, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand
Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, Uganda
Others: Check full list on UK Government website

Cost: £65-150 (depending on country) Validity: 6 months from test date

UK Government TB Testing Information: www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa

6. Academic Documents

Previous educational certificates
Degree transcripts
Academic qualifications mentioned on your CAS
English language test certificates

7. ATAS Certificate (If Required)

Required for postgraduate students (RQF Level 7+) studying certain sensitive subjects.

Subjects requiring ATAS:

Advanced engineering (aerospace, chemical, nuclear, mechanical)
Physical sciences and mathematics
Computer science (certain specializations)
Life and medical sciences (certain areas)

Application:

Apply at least 30 days before visa application
Free of charge
Processing: 20-30 working days

UK Government ATAS Information: www.gov.uk/guidance/academic-technology-approval-scheme

Complete Documents Checklist for Online Application

Having all documents ready before starting saves time and prevents errors.

Core Documents (Mandatory for All)

Document	Format Requirements	Notes
Valid Passport	Colour scan, biographical page	Must be valid throughout stay
CAS Reference Number	14-digit code	From university, valid 6 months
Bank Statements	Official, on letterhead, 28+ days	Must show name, account number, daily balance
English Language Certificate	IELTS/PTE/TOEFL or equivalent	Valid 2 years from test date
TB Certificate	If from listed country	Valid 6 months
Academic Certificates	Degree certificates, transcripts	All qualifications on CAS
Passport Photos	45mm x 35mm, white background	Recent colour photos

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

Document	When Required
ATAS Certificate	Postgraduate sensitive subjects
Parental Consent Letter	Applicants under 18 years old
Financial Sponsor Letter	If someone else funding your studies
Scholarship Award Letter	If receiving scholarship
Previous UK Visa Pages	If visited UK before
Marriage Certificate	If bringing spouse
Birth Certificates	If bringing children

Document Preparation Standards

Scanning Requirements:

Format: PDF only
Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI
Colour: Full colour (not black/white)
Size: Under 2MB per file
Quality: All text clearly readable, no cut-off edges

Translation Requirements:

Documents not in English must include certified translations
Include both original and translation
Translator must be qualified/certified
Include translator’s credentials and certification statement

How to Apply for UK Student Visa Online (Step-by-Step)

Follow these steps carefully to complete your UK Student Visa application online successfully.

Step 1: Receive Your CAS from UK University

Timeline: Usually 2-5 working days after accepting offer and paying deposit

Your university issues the CAS after you:

Accept their unconditional offer formally
Pay the required tuition deposit (if applicable)
Meet all conditions (English language, qualifications)
Provide requested documents

Verify CAS Details:

✓ Your name (exactly as in passport)
✓ Date of birth and nationality
✓ Course title, level, and duration
✓ Start and end dates
✓ Tuition fees and payments made
✓ Your qualifications and English test scores

If there are ANY errors, contact your university immediately. Do not apply with incorrect CAS details.

Step 2: Create UKVI Account

Official Application Portal: www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply

Registration Steps:

Visit official UK government visa website
Click “Apply now” for Student Visa
Create account with valid email address
Create secure password
Verify email through confirmation link
Begin application

Pro Tip: Use a personal email you’ll have long-term access to. All visa correspondence will be sent here.

Step 3: Complete Online Application Form

Time Required: 60-90 minutes

The form is divided into multiple sections:

Section 1: Personal Information

Full name (exactly as in passport)
Date of birth, nationality, gender
Passport details (number, issue/expiry dates)
Contact information (email, phone)
Current residential address

Section 2: Travel History

International travel (last 10 years)
Dates of entry/exit from each country
Previous UK visits (dates, visa types)
Visa refusals from any country

Section 3: Course and CAS Details

Enter 14-digit CAS reference number
System auto-retrieves course information
Verify all details match your CAS
Confirm course start date and duration

Section 4: Financial Information

How you’re funding studies
Source of funds (personal/family/scholarship/loan)
If using sponsor, provide relationship details
Confirm meeting financial requirements

Section 5: Work and Education History

Employment history (last 10 years)
Educational institutions attended
Dates, qualifications, any gaps
Explanation for significant gaps

Section 6: Character and Convictions

Criminal record (any country)
Previous visa refusals
Immigration breaches or overstays
Detailed explanation if answering “yes”

Important Reminders:

Answer truthfully and accurately
Don’t leave sections blank (write “Not Applicable”)
Ensure dates match supporting documents
Save progress regularly (can complete later)
Review everything before proceeding

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Upload Process:

Select document category
Choose file from computer
Verify successful upload
Add document description if requested

File Requirements:

✓ PDF format only
✓ Under 2MB per file
✓ Clear and fully legible
✓ Colour scans
✓ Properly named files

Documents to Upload:

Passport biographical page
CAS letter (if available separately)
Bank statements (full 28+ day period)
English language certificate
TB certificate (if applicable)
Academic documents
Additional supporting documents

Step 5: Pay Visa Fees

Visa Application Fee: £524

Standard fee when applying from outside UK (increased April 2025).

Payment Methods: Visa, Mastercard, American Express debit/credit cards

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year

Gives access to UK’s National Health Service (NHS) throughout your stay.

IHS Calculation:

The IHS is charged for your full visa duration (not just course length), including pre-course and post-course periods.

Course Length	Visa Duration	IHS Calculation	Total IHS
1-year Master’s	~17 months	1 year (£776) + 5 months (£388)	£1,164
3-year Bachelor’s	~38 months	3 years (£2,328) + 2 months (£388)	£2,716
4-year Degree	~52 months	4 years (£3,104) + 4 months (£388)	£3,492

UK Government IHS Calculator: www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application

Total Application Costs Examples:

Visa Type	Visa Fee	IHS	Total
1-year Master’s	£524	£1,164	£1,688
3-year Bachelor’s	£524	£2,716	£3,240
4-year PhD	£524	£3,492	£4,016

Step 6: Book Biometric Appointment

After payment, schedule appointment at nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).

At VAC, you will provide:

Fingerprints (10 digits)
Digital photograph
Passport for verification

Booking Tips:

Book early (VACs busy June-September)
Choose convenient date/time
Appointment confirmation sent via email
Arrive 15 minutes early

What to Bring:

Printed appointment confirmation
Valid passport
Application checklist (provided online)
Payment receipts

UK Government VAC Locations: Find your nearest VAC

Step 7: Attend Biometrics Appointment

Process at VAC:

Check in at reception
Biometric data collection (fingerprints, photo)
Submit passport (in some countries)
Receive receipt and tracking number
Information about passport collection/eVisa

UK Immigration: ID Check App Alternative

Eligible applicants can use smartphone app instead of VAC visit:

Eligibility: Nationals of selected countries with biometric passports (EU countries, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, and others)

Process:

Download “UK Immigration: ID Check” app
Scan biometric passport using phone
Take selfie photograph
Submit application digitally
No VAC visit needed

Check eligibility during application process.

Step 8: Track Application Status

Official Tracking: www.gov.uk/track-visa-application

Tracking Process:

Use unique application reference number
Check status online regularly
Receive email updates at key stages

Application Stages:

Application submitted
Under consideration at decision center
Decision made (notification sent)

Standard Processing: 15 working days (3 weeks) from biometric appointment

Priority Services:

Service	Processing Time	Additional Cost	Availability
Priority	5 working days	~£250-500	Most VACs
Super Priority	24 hours (1 working day)	~£1,000-1,200	Select VACs only

Note: Priority services guarantee faster processing, not approval.

Step 9: Receive Decision and Access eVisa

Email Notification: When decision is made

If Approved:

Understanding Visa Vignette (If Applicable)

Your passport may contain a visa vignette (temporary entry sticker):

Vignette Details:

Valid for 30-90 days from intended travel date
Allows initial entry to UK
Shows basic visa information
States work permissions

Check immediately for errors.

Setting Up Your eVisa (Digital Immigration Status)

Since 31 December 2024, physical BRP cards discontinued. All new visa holders use digital eVisa system.

Step-by-Step eVisa Setup:

1. Create UKVI Account

Visit: www.gov.uk/evisa
Click “Sign in or create UKVI account”
Register with email and password
Verify email address

2. Link Your Passport

Log into UKVI account
Add passport details (number, nationality, expiry)
System links visa to passport automatically
Immigration status becomes viewable online

3. View and Manage eVisa

Check visa details and conditions
View work permissions
Generate “share code” to prove status
Share with employers, landlords, universities
Update personal details when needed

Benefits of eVisa:

✓ Cannot be lost or stolen
✓ Accessible 24/7 from any device
✓ Easy digital sharing
✓ Instant updates
✓ More secure
✓ Environmentally friendly

UK Government eVisa Guide: www.gov.uk/guidance/evisa-explained

UK Student Visa Fees (2025 Complete Breakdown)

Understanding the full cost helps you budget effectively.

Mandatory Fees (All Applicants)

Fee Type	Amount	Purpose
Visa Application Fee	£524	Processing your application
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	£776 per year	Access to NHS healthcare

Fee Calculations by Course Length

Course Type	Visa Duration	Visa Fee	IHS	Total
1-year Master’s	~17 months	£524	£1,164	£1,688
2-year Master’s	~28 months	£524	£2,328	£2,852
3-year Bachelor’s	~38 months	£524	£2,716	£3,240
4-year Degree	~52 months	£524	£3,492	£4,016

Optional Priority Services

Service	Processing Time	Cost	Notes
Standard	15 working days	Included	Most applications
Priority	5 working days	£250-500	Most VACs available
Super Priority	24 hours	£1,000-1,200	Limited locations

Additional Costs to Budget

Before Application:

Item	Cost Range
TB Test	£65-150
IELTS Academic	£180-200
ATAS Certificate	Free (time required)
Document Translation	£10-50 per page
Certified Copies	£5-25 per document

During Application:

Item	Cost Range
Passport Photos	£5-15
Travel to VAC	Varies
Courier Return (optional)	£30-75

After Approval:

Item	Cost
Police Registration	£34 (if required)
Travel to UK	Varies
Initial Living Expenses	Plan ahead

Important: Fees subject to change. Verify current rates at www.gov.uk/student-visa

Processing Time for UK Student Visa

Timing your application correctly ensures you receive your visa before your course starts.

Standard Processing Times

From Outside UK: 15 working days (3 weeks) from biometric appointment

Factors Affecting Processing Time

Factor	Impact on Processing
Location	EU countries faster; Some Asian/African countries may take longer
Season	Peak (June-September) often slower
Application Quality	Complete, accurate applications process faster
Complexity	Straightforward cases quicker than complex situations

Typical Processing by Region

Region	Average Processing
EU Countries	10-15 working days
North America	15-20 working days
Asia	15-25 working days
Africa	20-30 working days
Middle East	15-20 working days

When to Apply

Timeline	Recommendation
Earliest	6 months before course starts
Latest	3-4 weeks before travel (minimum)
Ideal	2-3 months before course starts

Best Practice:

✓ Apply 2-3 months before course
✓ Allows time for issues
✓ Better flight prices
✓ Accommodation arrangements
✓ Reduced stress

Peak Season Warning:

During June-September (September intake applications):

VAC appointments limited
Processing may extend 1-2 weeks
Priority services sell out quickly
Higher risk for last-minute applicants

Solution: Apply in May or early June for September courses.

UK Government Processing Times: www.gov.uk/visa-processing-times

Common Reasons for UK Student Visa Refusal

Understanding refusal reasons helps you avoid mistakes.

Top 10 Refusal Reasons

Reason	Description	How to Avoid
1. Insufficient Funds	Not showing required amount for full 28 days	Maintain stable balance, plan ahead
2. Suspicious Financial Documents	Large unexplained deposits, edited statements	Use official bank statements, transparent history
3. CAS Errors	Discrepancies between CAS and application	Verify CAS details before applying
4. Missing Documents	TB certificate, English test, bank statements	Use checklist, double-check uploads
5. Poor Document Quality	Blurry scans, cut-off text, unreadable	300 DPI colour scans, check readability
6. Lack of Genuine Intent	Unexplained gaps, inconsistent choices	Provide clear study plan, career goals
7. Immigration History	Previous refusals, overstays, violations	Be honest, provide explanations
8. Inconsistent Information	Contradictions in application and documents	Ensure consistency, review thoroughly
9. English Language Issues	Unapproved tests, expired certificates	Use approved SELTs, check validity
10. Wrong Financial Evidence	Online screenshots, no letterhead, wrong dates	Official bank statements on letterhead

Financial Issues (Most Common)

Problem: Funds held for less than 28 consecutive days Solution: Start financial preparation 2-3 months early

Problem: Balance drops below requirement even once Solution: Maintain buffer above minimum requirement

Problem: Large unexplained deposits shortly before application Solution: Transfer funds early, document sources

Problem: Using temporary “show money” Solution: Use genuine, stable funds only

Documentation Errors

Problem: CAS details don’t match application Solution: Verify every CAS detail before applying

Problem: Blurry or incomplete document scans Solution: High-quality 300 DPI colour scans, check readability

Problem: Missing certified translations Solution: Professional certified translations for non-English documents

Credibility Concerns

Problem: Unable to explain course choice or career plans Solution: Prepare clear statement of purpose, career roadmap

Problem: Unexplained education gaps Solution: Document gaps with evidence (work, family reasons, etc.)

Problem: Previous visa violations Solution: Be honest, provide context, show compliance now

UK Government Refusal Reasons: Check guidance at www.gov.uk/immigration-rules

Tips to Increase UK Student Visa Approval

Follow these proven strategies to strengthen your application.

Financial Documentation Excellence

✓ Start Early (2-3 months before)

Maintain required funds continuously
Avoid suspicious transactions during 28-day period
Document all fund sources clearly

✓ Use Official Bank Statements

On bank letterhead with stamps
Show name, account number, daily balance
In English or with certified translations

✓ Maintain Consistent Balance

Keep funds above requirement (add 10% buffer)
No large unexplained deposits
Stable, predictable transactions

✓ Document Sponsor Relationships

Detailed sponsor letter
Proof of relationship (birth certificates, etc.)
Sponsor’s bank statements and income proof
Notarized documents add credibility

Application Accuracy

✓ Triple-Check CAS Details

Verify name matches passport exactly
Confirm all dates, fees, qualifications
Contact university immediately for any errors

✓ Complete Every Section

Never leave blank sections
Write “Not Applicable” or “None”
Provide detailed explanations where required

✓ Be Honest

Declare all visa refusals
Mention any criminal records or issues
Explain gaps and unusual circumstances
Dishonesty = automatic refusal + potential ban

✓ Provide Supporting Statement

Clear study objectives
Career goals after graduation
Why this specific course and university
Strong ties to home country

Document Quality

✓ High-Quality Scans

300 DPI minimum resolution
Full colour (not black/white)
All text clearly readable
No cut-off edges

✓ Logical Organization

Clear file names
Follow checklist order
All pages included
Related documents grouped

✓ Professional Translations

Certified translators only
Include originals + translations
Translator credentials visible

Timing Strategies

✓ Apply Off-Peak

April-May better than July-August
Avoid summer rush
Allow extra time if busy period

✓ Allow Processing Time

Apply 2-3 months before course
Factor in potential delays
Don’t book flights until approved

Demonstrate Genuine Intent

✓ Show Academic Progression

Logical course choice
Career advancement plan
Research on course content
University choice reasoning

✓ Prove Home Country Ties

Family responsibilities
Property ownership
Job prospects post-graduation
Business or community involvement

✓ Prepare for Interviews (if called)

Articulate course choice clearly
Specific career plans
Knowledge of university and course
Funding arrangements

Professional Support

✓ University Immigration Support

Consult international office
Attend pre-application workshops
Review CAS with advisors
Use university templates

✓ Professional Review (if needed)

Immigration consultants for complex cases
Legal advice for previous refusals
Document checking services

Can You Work on a UK Student Visa?

Many students work part-time to support themselves and gain experience.

Work Hour Restrictions

Study Level	Term Time	Holidays
Degree Level or Above (RQF 6+)	20 hours/week maximum	Unlimited (full-time)
Below Degree Level (RQF 3-5)	10 hours/week maximum	Unlimited (full-time)

UK Government Work Guidance: www.gov.uk/student-visa/work-and-volunteering

Types of Work Allowed

✓ Permitted:

Retail and hospitality jobs
Office and admin roles
Campus jobs (library, student union)
Internships related to course
Freelance work (within hour limits)
Work placements (up to 50% of course)

✗ Prohibited:

Professional sportsperson/coach
Entertainer (performer, musician)
Doctor/dentist in training (unless part of course)
Self-employment or own business
Permanent full-time professional work

National Insurance Number

Required for: Working legally in UK

How to Apply:

Visit: www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number
Free application
Takes 2-4 weeks
Can start work before receiving (with proof of application)

Earnings and Tax

Personal Allowance 2025/26: £12,570 tax-free annually

Weekly Earnings	National Insurance	Income Tax
Under £242	£0	0% (if under £12,570/year)
£242-967	8%	20% (on amount over personal allowance)
Over £967	2% on excess	20% (on amount over personal allowance)

National Minimum Wage (April 2025):

Age	Hourly Rate
21+	£12.21
18-20	£10.00
Under 18	£7.55

Finding Student Jobs

Popular Resources:

University career services
StudentJob UK, Indeed, Reed
Campus notice boards
Retail chains (Tesco, Sainsbury’s, M&S)
LinkedIn

Typical Student Wages:

Retail assistant: £10-12/hour
Restaurant server: £10-13/hour + tips
Campus jobs: £11-13/hour
Tutoring: £15-30/hour
Admin assistant: £11-14/hour

Important Work Reminders

⚠️ Academic Performance First:

Studies are your primary activity
Excessive work affecting grades risks visa status
Universities report non-attendance to UKVI
Poor progress affects visa extensions

⚠️ Track Your Hours:

Keep accurate work records
Don’t exceed 20-hour limit (term time)
Breaching conditions = visa cancellation + deportation
Affects future UK visa applications

After You Get Your UK Student Visa

Congratulations! Here’s what happens next.

Understanding Your Visa Approval

Visa Vignette (If Applicable):

Check immediately:

✓ Name (exactly as passport)
✓ Date of birth and nationality
✓ Visa type: “Student”
✓ Validity dates (30-90 days for entry)
✓ Work permission statement
✓ Number of entries

Report any errors immediately before traveling.