Whether you are applying for a Spouse Visa, extending your stay with Further Leave to Remain (FLR), or looking to settle permanently with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Atwal Law is here to guide you every step of the way. We also support businesses with sponsor licences and Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS), helping UK employers hire skilled international talent and stay fully compliant with Home Office rules.

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UK Student Visa

UK Student Visa – Your Guide to Studying in the UK

UK Student Visa – Your Guide to Studying in the UK

Whether you're planning to study in Coventry, Birmingham, London or anywhere across the UK, the Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) is your gateway to top universities and global opportunities. This guide explains who can apply, how it works, and how Atwal Law can support you through the entire process.

What is the UK Student Visa?

The Student Visa allows international students aged 16 or over to study in the UK at an approved institution. You’ll need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor before applying.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for a Student Visa if:

- You have an unconditional offer from a licensed UK university, college, or school
- You’ve received your CAS reference number
- You meet English language requirements
- You have sufficient funds to support yourself and pay for your course

Financial Requirements

  • You’ll need to show you have enough money to support yourself – unless you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date of your application. How much money you need depends on where you will be studying. You’ll need either: Please replace section on student visa page: £1,483 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London £1,136 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London If you’re boarding at a residential independent school, you’ll need to pay boarding fees instead. The amount you need to pay will be on your CAS. London means the City of London and the 32 London boroughs.
  • Student visa fee is £524

English Language Requirements

You must prove your knowledge of English by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT), unless exempt (e.g., from majority English-speaking countries).

Application Process

  • 1. Get a CAS from your university or college
    2. Apply online (inside or outside the UK)
    3. Pay the visa fee (£490 standard) and healthcare surcharge (around £776 per year)
    4. Book a biometric appointment (for visa vignette or BRP)
    5. Wait for a decision (usually 3 weeks, or 8 weeks inside the UK)

What You Can Do on a Student Visa

  • – Study at the course stated on your CAS
    – Work up to 20 hours per week during term time
    – Full-time work allowed during holidays
    – Switch to other visas (e.g., Graduate Route, Skilled Worker) if eligible

What You Cannot Do

  • – Claim public funds
    – Work in certain jobs (e.g., professional sportsperson)
    – Study at an institution not listed on your CAS

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • – Applying with an expired or incorrect CAS
    – Not showing enough funds
    – Submitting incorrect or missing documents
    – Misunderstanding visa rules (e.g., work restrictions)

Can You Bring Dependants?

  • Yes, but only if:
    – You are studying a postgraduate course of 9 months or longer at a higher education provider
    – Your dependant is your spouse/partner or child under 18

  • 📞 Call us today on 07973 760075 
    📧 Or message us to book a free consultation with our legal team.

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    Ready to begin your future in the UK? Let Atwal Law help you make it happen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A UK Student Visa allows international students to live and study in the UK at a licensed university, college, or school.
You can apply if you have an offer from a licensed UK education provider, enough money to support yourself, and can prove your English language ability.
It depends on your course length. Most visas cover the duration of your studies plus a short period after (usually 2–4 months).
Yes, but with restrictions. Generally, students can work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during holidays.
Yes. Most applicants must pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) unless exempt (e.g. studying at degree level in English).
£1,483 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London
£1,136 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London
Yes, but usually only if you are studying at postgraduate level for at least 9 months, or are a government-sponsored student.
Not directly. However, after studies, many switch to routes like the Graduate Visa or Skilled Worker Visa, which can lead to settlement.

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