Student visa
Study in the United Kingdom
Overview of the UK Student visa for courses at a licensed student sponsor. A Student visa is not the same as a Standard Visitor stay for short courses.
CAS from a licensed student sponsor
A UK Student visa normally starts with an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Short recreational courses may fit Standard Visitor rules instead — mixing the two products confuses both fees and intent. Confirm the sponsor appears on the GOV.UK register.
English, maintenance, and genuine student themes
Course level drives English language evidence and what the CAS must show. Maintenance funds follow published living-cost rules unless official financial sponsorship covers them. Officers may refuse when study does not look like the main purpose of the trip.
IHS, tuberculosis, and biometrics
Most applicants pay the Immigration Health Surcharge with the visa fee. A tuberculosis test applies when GOV.UK lists it for your country. Biometrics follow the UKVI process for your location. Align names across passport, CAS, and bank statements.
Work hours and official next step
Term-time and vacation work limits are printed on the visa conditions — self-employment as a trader is usually restricted. Get the CAS first, then apply only through official GOV.UK accounts. Entryora outlines the route; UKVI decides.
Eligibility snapshot
- Unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Course and English language requirements that match GOV.UK rules for your level
- Enough money for course fees and living costs under the published maintenance rules
- Genuine student intent — immigration officers may refuse if study is not the main purpose
Documents
- CAS from the sponsor
- Passport and tuberculosis test results when required
- Proof of funds (bank statements or official financial sponsorship)
- Academic and English language evidence as listed on the CAS / GOV.UK checklist
Fees, stay, and work
| Fees | Student visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) apply for most applicants. Amounts change — verify on GOV.UK before you pay. |
|---|---|
| Timeline | Get the CAS first, then apply online. Processing times depend on where you apply and whether you use priority services. Check current GOV.UK guidance. |
| Stay | Usually aligned with the course length on the CAS, plus any wrap-up time printed on the decision. Short study may use other routes — confirm on GOV.UK. |
| Work rights | Term-time and vacation work hours are limited by the visa conditions. Do not work for yourself as a trader unless the rules allow it. Confirm the hours on your decision letter. |
| Path to PR | Not a permanent residence route on its own. |
Apply on the official site Document checklist Back to United Kingdom