The UK Student visa (officially the Student route) allows international students aged 16 or over to study in the United Kingdom on eligible full-time courses. To qualify, you must first receive an unconditional offer and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK educational provider — this electronic document is essential as it confirms your course details and sponsor’s license. Applicants must also meet English language requirements, usually by proving proficiency through an approved test or qualifications, and show they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs for the duration of their studies, with stricter financial thresholds in place for 2025-26 compared to previous years.
Once eligibility is established, the application process is mainly online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal. You’ll need a valid passport, your CAS number, proof of finances (bank statements showing funds held for at least 28 days), and any additional documents like tuberculosis test results or ATAS clearance for certain subjects. After submitting the application and paying the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), you’ll book a biometrics appointment at a local Visa Application Centre. Processing times vary, but most decisions arrive within a few weeks when applying from outside the UK.
During the visa period, conditions apply such as limits on work hours during term-time and responsibilities to notify UKVI of changes in your circumstances. Dependants rules have also tightened: only those on PhD or similar research courses can usually bring family members. After completing your studies, you may be eligible to switch into the Graduate visa (post-study work route), though the duration for taught degrees is set to reduce to 18 months for applications made from 1 January 2027 onwards.