If you are planning to study in the UK, you may need to apply for a Student Visa. This route allows international students to study full-time (and, in some cases, part-time) at a recognised British college or university. To apply, you must be sponsored by a licensed education provider and obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your sponsor. This CAS is an essential part of your application.
The Student Visa has replaced the old Tier 4 (General) Student Visa under the UK’s new immigration system. It is now the most common immigration route for non-UK residents who wish to study in the UK.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply for a Student Visa if you are aged 16 or over and want to study in the UK at an eligible institution. If you are 16 or 17 and plan to study at an independent school, you may be eligible for a Child Student Visa instead.
Your course provider is often referred to as your “sponsor”. Only licensed student sponsors can issue CAS numbers, and some institutions, such as academies, state-funded schools, or sixth-form colleges, are not eligible to sponsor international students.
Both EEA and non-EEA nationals need a Student Visa if they are not otherwise eligible under the EU Settlement Scheme. The EEA includes all EU member states, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland (although Switzerland is not part of the EEA, it is treated similarly for immigration purposes). Irish nationals do not need a visa to live, work, or study in the UK.
Who Can Apply?The 70-Point Requirement for Student Visa
Under the UK’s points-based immigration system, you must score 70 points to qualify for a Student Visa. Points are awarded for:
- Offer from a licensed student sponsor (50 points) – You must have an unconditional offer of a place on an eligible course, leading to an approved qualification. Your sponsor will issue you a CAS as proof.
- Financial requirement (10 points) – You must have enough money to pay your course fees and support yourself.
English language requirement (10 points) – You must meet the minimum standard in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English.
What is a CAS
CAS stands for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. This is an electronic record held by the Home Office and issued by your education provider once you have been offered a place. Your CAS includes important details about your course and sponsor, as well as a unique reference number. You must include this number in your visa application.
You can only get a CAS if you have been accepted by a licensed student sponsor. The CAS is valid for a limited time, so you should apply for your visa promptly once you receive it.
Meeting the Financial (Maintenance) Requirement
The amount of money you need to show depends on your situation:
- Course fees: You must have funds to pay your first year’s fees (or the full cost if your course is less than a year).
- Living costs: You must show you have enough money to support yourself for each month of your course (up to nine months), with higher amounts required if studying in London.
If you have already been living in the UK for 12 months or more under a valid visa, you may not need to show proof of funds. If you have a scholarship or official sponsorship covering your costs, this may also reduce or remove the requirement.
Importantly, you must hold the required funds in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
English Language Requirement
You will need to prove your English skills through an approved test or qualification, unless you are from an exempt country or have previously studied in English at a certain level. Your education provider will advise you on what evidence is acceptable.
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How to Apply for a UK Student Visa
- Get your CAS from your licensed sponsoring education institution.
- Apply online using your CAS reference number.
- Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Submit your documents and (if required) attend a biometric appointment.
You must apply within six months of receiving your CAS if applying from outside the UK.
Graduate Route: After You Finish Studying
Once you successfully complete your degree in the UK, you may be eligible for the Graduate Visa. This allows you to stay in the UK for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) to work, look for work, or even switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you secure an eligible job with a licensed sponsor.
Bringing Family Members (Dependants)
Your partner and children (“dependants”) may be able to apply to come to the UK with you or extend their stay if they are already here if one of the following applies:
- You are a government-sponsored student starting a course that lasts longer than 6 months; or
- You are a full-time student on a postgraduate-level course (RQF level 7 or above) lasting 9 months or longer.
If your postgraduate course starts on or after 1 January 2024, it must be either:
- A PhD or other doctorate (RQF level 8); or
- A research-based higher degree.
Who qualifies as a dependant?
A dependant partner or child can be:
- Your husband, wife, or civil partner.
- Your unmarried partner.
- Your child, under 18 years old (including children born in the UK during your stay).
Get in touch now for a free consultation via email, phone or live chat or fill in our inquiry form.
eVisas – Important Changes from 15 July 2025
From 15 July 2025, most new Student Visa applications will be issued as digital eVisas rather than physical vignettes (stickers) in passports. This includes short-term study visas (up to 11 months).
Applicants will need to:
- Create a UKVI online account to access their eVisa.
- Link their passport or travel document to their account.
Dependants and other visa types may continue to receive passport vignettes until further notice.
Working While You Study
Many students can work part-time during term time and full-time during vacations. However, the number of hours and type of work you can do depends on your course level and sponsor type. Some courses and providers have stricter limits. Always check your visa conditions before accepting work.
Get Expert Help
Applying for a Student Visa can be straightforward if you meet all the requirements, but even small errors can lead to delays or refusals. Our advisers can give you tailored guidance on your eligibility, financial evidence, and supporting documents, helping you prepare a strong application.
How Immigration Connection Can Help You
With over 15 years of experience, we make the process clear, efficient, and stress-free.
Our IAA-regulated advisers can:
- Check eligibility and review documents for students, workers, and businesses.
- Help employers obtain a Scale-up sponsor licence.
- Prepare and submit your application form and supporting evidence.
- Prepare and include a detailed legal representation letter with your application, explaining the relevant rules and guidelines to help the Home Office make a fair and informed decision.
- Provide ongoing support to employers and applicants after a successful outcome.
📩 Ready to take the next step? Contact Immigration Connection today and let our immigration lawyers guide you through every stage of your Student Visa and other UK Visa categories.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while holding a Student Visa in the UK?
Yes, you can work while on a Student Visa in the UK, but the amount and type of work may vary depending on your course level and institution. Generally, students can work part-time during term time and full-time during vacations. However, there may be restrictions for students studying lower-level courses. Our advisers can provide detailed information on your work options based on your course and visa conditions.
What is the Student Visa, and how does it differ from the previous Tier 4 visa?
The Student Visa is the primary immigration route for non-UK residents who wish to pursue full-time or part-time studies in the UK. It has replaced the Tier 4 visa under the new UK immigration system. This visa is typically sponsored by a college or university, and applicants need to obtain a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) certificate from their sponsor when applying for the Student Visa.
Who is eligible for the Student Visa, and what are the key requirements?
Both EEA and non-EEA nationals can apply for the Student Visa if they plan to study at a licensed education institution in the UK. To qualify, applicants must earn a total of 70 points based on specific criteria, including having an offer from a licensed student sponsor, sufficient financial resources, and proficiency in English. Additionally, the offer of a place on a course must be unconditional.
What are the financial requirements for the Student Visa, and how do they vary depending on the circumstances?
The financial requirements for the Student Visa include covering course fees and living costs, with different amounts needed based on your situation and the course you’re applying for. For those who have lived in the UK for less than a year or are foreign applicants, funds must cover at least one academic year’s course fees. Monthly living costs also vary depending on whether you’ll study in London or outside London. It’s essential to demonstrate that you’ve held the required funds for at least 28 days. Specific details and exceptions can be discussed with our advisers for personalized guidance.
Are there any exceptions to the Student Visa financial requirements?
Yes, there are exceptions to the financial requirements for the Student Visa. For instance, if you have a scholarship or financial sponsorship that covers your course fees and living costs, you may not need to demonstrate personal funds. Additionally, some students, such as those applying for a Doctorate Extension Scheme (DES) visa, might have different financial requirements. It’s crucial to seek personalised advice from our advisers based on your specific circumstances.
