UK study visa

When considering studying in the United Kingdom as an international student, one of the first steps is understanding and applying for the right type of UK student visa. The UK offers various tiers and categories of student visas based on the study program and university chosen. In this blog post, we provide an overview of the main types of UK student visa available, the eligibility criteria, and key steps for applying.

The Different Types of Student Visa for Studying in the UK

There are several tiers and categories under which an international student can apply for a UK student visa. The primary options include:

  • Tier 4 (General) Student Visa
  • Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa
  • Student Visitor Visa

Student routes under the Points-Based System

Depending on your nationality and chosen course of study, certain types of UK student visa may or may not be available to you.

UK Tier 4 (General) Student Visa

The Tier 4 (General) student visa is the most common type applied for by prospective foreign students wanting to study in the UK. It allows internationals to undertake any course at an approved UK institution for higher than six months.

To qualify for the Tier 4 (General) UK student visa, applicants must:

  • Have an unconditional offer of a place on a course from an approved UK university, college, or independent school
  • Be able to speak, read, write, and understand English at the required standard
  • Have enough money to support themselves and pay for the chosen course of study
  • Meet other eligibility rules around previous UK immigration history, tuberculosis testing, etc.

The Tier 4 (General) visa allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. Family members can also apply to accompany a Tier 4 (General) student visa holder to the UK.

UK Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa

The Tier 4 (Child) student route is specifically designed for non-British children between 4-17 years old who have been offered a place at an independent, fee-paying school in the UK.

To qualify for a Tier 4 (Child) UK student visa, the child must:

  • Have been offered a place at an approved independent school in the UK
  • Have enough money to pay for the school fees and support themselves without working or accessing public funds
  • Meet other eligibility criteria around parental consent, previous immigration history, English language capability if over 16 years old, etc.
  • The Tier 4 (Child) student visa route does not allow the child to work in the UK or for family members to accompany them.

UK Short Term Student Visitor Visa

For international students looking to undertake a short course of up to six months at an accredited UK university or educational institution, the Student Visitor route provides an option.

Key requirements to qualify for a UK student visitor visa include:

  • Having an unconditional offer to study on an approved course that lasts no more than six months
  • Having enough money to fund the stay in the UK as well as return/onward journey
  • Meeting English language proficiency standards
  • Demonstrating ties to home country and intention to leave the UK after completing studies

This student visitor route does not allow students to work or switch into other UK immigration routes once in the country.

Points-Based System Student Routes

The points-based system (PBS) for immigration introduced in 2021 also created new routes for student visas. These include:

  • Skilled Worker route for internationally recognised leaders or promising Ph.D. researchers
  • Start-up and Innovator routes for graduates starting new UK businesses
  • Each route has specific eligibility criteria regarding qualifications, skills, experience, language capability, sponsorship, and funding.

How to Apply for a UK Student Visa

The main steps involved in applying for a UK student visa generally include:

  • Decide on the university and course of study
  • Get unconditional offer from approved UK institution
  • Choose the right student visa route and check eligibility
  • Prepare all supporting documents (financial, qualifications, English test, etc.)
  • Complete online student visa application and pay fees
  • Attend biometric appointment at application center
  • Await visa decision (if approved, get visa in passport)

Processing times and costs for UK student visas can vary so it is best to apply 3-4 months before your course start date. Use an immigration consultant if you need help understanding the complex regulations.

Key Restrictions of a UK Student Visa

While getting a UK student visa provides internationals the chance for a world-class British education, some rules and restrictions apply during your stay, including:

  • Limits on how many hours you can work during studies
  • Restrictions on accessing public funds and welfare benefits
  • Registration needed if stay exceeds 6 months
  • Need to maintain course attendance and academic progression
  • No family members allowed for many student visa routes
  • Make sure you fully understand the do’s and don’ts for your visa before traveling to avoid problems.

Types of UK Student Visa: In Summary

Whether looking to undertake short English language courses, complete an undergraduate degree, or take up a PhD research position, the UK offers different tiers and categories of student visa. The Tier 4 (General) route remains the most popular, but Student Visitor, Tier 4 (Child) and Points Based System options exist too.

Each UK student visa route has specific eligibility criteria, rights, restrictions and requirements. So make sure to choose the pathway that fits your situation and study plans best. Leave plenty of time to apply – at least 3 months in advance – and use an immigration lawyer if in doubt.