United Kingdom Student Visa Guide
Student Visa (formerly Tier 4)
For full-time courses at UK Higher Education Providers with a Track Record. Decision is largely document-based; biometrics are required.
- Application fee
- ~$600
- Processing
- 3 weeks standard; 5-day priority service available
- Validity
- Course length + 4 months
- Work rights
- 20 hrs/week during term; full-time in vacations. Graduate route: 2 years post-study.
Document checklist
- ✓CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Financial proof — 28 consecutive daysTuition + £1,334/mo (London) or £1,023/mo (rest) for up to 9 months.
- ✓Tuberculosis (TB) test certificateFor most South / Southeast Asian, African nationals.
- ○Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate (optional)Only for some sensitive STEM PhDs.
- ○Parental consent (if under 18) (optional)
- ✓Previous qualifications listed in CAS
Step-by-step process
- 1
Receive CAS
University issues a CAS number after deposit + ID checks.
- 2
Apply online
Complete the Student visa application on gov.uk.
- 3
Pay fees
Visa fee + Immigration Health Surcharge (£776/year).
- 4
Biometrics
VFS appointment for fingerprints + photo.
- 5
Submit documents
Upload or take to centre — based on country.
- 6
Decision + collect
BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) collected after arrival in UK.
Interview tips
- A credibility interview may happen — be ready to explain course choice, university, fees, post-study plans.
- Don't over-prepare — speak naturally about your interest in the program.
- Be clear about who is funding you and how the funds were earned.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not maintaining 28 consecutive days of required funds.
- Submitting a TB certificate from a non-approved clinic.
- Inconsistent answers between CAS, application, and interview.
Practise your United Kingdom visa interview
Oxbrivy’s AI mock interview scores your answers and tells you what to improve.
Official source: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa. General guidance only — verify current requirements before applying.