Are you a student aspiring to study in the UK? Well, you are on the right page! As someone interested in studying in the UK, I’ve explored the student route, which is a points-based visa system applicable to international students, including those from the EU, EEA, and Switzerland.
Since October 5, 2020, the Tier 4 (General) student visa has transitioned to student permission, while the Tier 4 (Child) student visa is now Child student permission. Additionally, student visas are now available for specific courses, requiring a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your education provider.
Want to learn more about student visa requirements? Keep reading as I walk you through all you need to know!
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What Is The New Student Route?
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The student route is a points-based visa system that is used for all international students which includes the EU, EEA, and Swiss students who want to study in the UK.
Who Can Apply For The UK Student Visa?
EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA nationals can easily apply for the new UK student visa if they get up to 70 points on the Point Based System.
However, the system measures if you meet the requirements for studying in the UK such as:
- Have you been accepted into an approved institution? The institution will give you a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) as proof.
- Do you have sufficient financial resources to fund your stay in the UK? you will also need £1,265 per month when studying in London.
- If you are studying outside London you will need £1,015 per month. If you have dependents, you will need £800 per month for each of them.
- Are you proficient in English? During the application for the visa, you need to pass the English Proficiency Test from a provider that is approved.
- You will need to have a B2 in your Degree level courses. Do you want to know if your course meets up to the requirements? Then keep reading!
READ MORE: List of UK Companies Willing to Sponsor Tier 2 Visa.
UK Student Visa Requirements For A Course
You will easily get a UK Student Visa if you have been accepted into one of the following courses:
- For full-time, the following are the degree-level courses ( beyond 15 hours per week of study). Referred to as the RQF level 3,4, or 5 that includes A levels (the last two years in the high school), apprenticeships, or the first two years of a Bachelor’s degree.
- A full-time course that leads to a degree level or above degree level qualification. It includes RQF levels 6, 7, and 8 (Bachelor, Postgraduate, Master or Doctorate).
- For the part-time course at a degree level above RQF 7 ( Postgraduate, Master or Doctorate).
- The approved program for postgraduate doctors or dentists.
- The English Language course (level B2 or above) in the Common European Framework of Reference for languages.
How To Apply For This Student Visa?
You can apply for a UK student Visa as early as six months before you begin the courses if you are outside the United Kingdom.
You have to start the online application on the UK government website before you appear at the visa application center in your country to submit your biometrics.
After being offered a place on the course, it means your education provider will have to send a reference number called a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.
You must make sure the number is entered during your online registration. Then you apply online, you will receive instructions on how to proceed that are determined by the country you reside.
Is It Possible To Switch To UK Student Visa?
If you are already in the UK, you can easily switch to a UK student visa as long as your current visa is not among one of the following:
- Visit visa.
- Parent of a child’s student visa.
- Short-term student visa.
- Household visa.
- Seasonal worker visa.
- Domestic workers on a private.
- Leaving outside the immigration rules.
You can easily switch to the UK Student Route up to three months earlier before your classes are scheduled to start.
Then you must be accepted to one of the approved institutions and your current visa must still be valid.
READ MORE: How To Apply For Canadian Visa On Your Own
How long does it take for UK student visa to be approved?
If you apply outside the UK, you will have to wait for 3 weeks before you receive a decision on your Student Visa application.
If you apply from the UK (switch to Student Visa), it will take close to 8 weeks to decide on your application.
UK Student Visa Fees And Costs 2024
If you are applying outside the UK you will have you pay £348 but if you apply to extend or switch to the visa from the UK you will pay £475.
Additionally, you are required to pay a separate fee for yourself and each member that accompanies you. Aside from the visa fee, you have to show them you have enough money to finance yourself during your stay.
Lastly, you must have at least £1,265 per month if you will be studying in London for nine months. While studying outside of London at least you must have £1,015 for nine months.
Required Document For The UK Student Visa Application
The following are the documents you will need to apply for your visa:
- A valid passport.
- The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your school.
- Evidence of your financial resources to support yourself and your family members.
- The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate if applicable.
- A Criminal record certificate.
- Proof of English Language proficiency.
- The result of the tuberculosis test.
- Any additional documents that are required during the application process.
Conclusion
Since you know the requirements for the UK student route, make sure you apply and follow the procedure. Remember, that the application process outside and inside the UK is different. For more information on UK Student Visa, Join Us on Twitter
