Study Visa
Child Student Visa 2026
For children aged 4–17 to study at an independent school in the UK.
Application fee
£490
NHS surcharge
N/A
Processing time
3 weeks
Who is eligible?
- Aged 4–17
- Place at a licensed UK independent (private) school
- Parental consent from both parents in most cases
- Proof of ability to pay school fees and living costs
How to apply — step by step
- 1Secure a place at a licensed UK independent school
- 2Apply online at gov.uk/child-student-visa
- 3Provide parental consent and evidence of school fees
- 4Processing takes approximately 3 weeks
Key requirements at a glance
- Place at a licensed independent school
- Parental consent
- Proof of finances
Frequently asked questions
Can a child on this visa attend a state school?▾
No. The Child Student visa is only for independent (private) schools. Children coming to the UK with parents on other visas (e.g. Skilled Worker) can attend state schools for free.
Can parents accompany their child?▾
A parent or guardian can apply to come to the UK as the child's carer, using a separate Child Student dependant visa. The carer cannot work in most cases.
Next steps
Official application
Apply for the Child Student Visa on GOV.UK
All visa applications are processed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) via the official gov.uk website.
Apply on GOV.UK