Student Visa 2026
Study at a UK university or college at degree level or above. You can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Application fee
£490
NHS surcharge
£776/year
Processing time
3–6 weeks
Who is eligible?
- Unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor (your university issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies — CAS)
- Course must be at degree level or above (RQF 6+), or an approved foundation or pre-sessional course
- English language at B2 level (e.g. IELTS 5.5+ overall, depending on course)
- Sufficient funds: £1,334/month for up to 9 months (London); £1,023/month (outside London) — must be held for 28 consecutive days
- Parental consent if you are under 18
How to apply — step by step
- 1Accept your university offer and receive your CAS number (issued by the university, not applied for)
- 2Apply online at gov.uk/student-visa — you can apply up to 6 months before your course start date
- 3Pay the £490 visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£776/year for your full course duration)
- 4Provide supporting documents: passport, CAS, bank statements, English language certificate, and ATAS certificate if required
- 5Book a biometrics appointment — in many countries this is at a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
- 6If approved, collect your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) within 10 days of arriving in the UK
Key requirements at a glance
- Unconditional offer from licensed student sponsor (CAS)
- English language (B2)
- Proof of finances (£1,334/month for London, £1,023 outside London)
Frequently asked questions
Can I work on a UK Student visa?▾
Yes, up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full-time during official vacations. You cannot be self-employed, run a business, or work as a professional sportsperson. Check your CAS — some courses restrict working rights.
How much money do I need for a UK Student visa?▾
You must show you have £1,334 per month for up to 9 months if studying in London (£12,006 total), or £1,023 per month outside London (£9,207 total). The money must be in your account for 28 consecutive days before you apply.
Do I need IELTS for a UK Student visa?▾
You need to meet the English language requirement — usually IELTS Academic at 5.5–7.0 depending on your course and university. Some universities accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English. Check your university's specific requirements.
Can my family join me on a UK Student visa?▾
Only if you are a government-sponsored student or studying a postgraduate degree at RQF level 7 or above for 9+ months, and are not studying at a publicly-funded further education college. Undergraduate students cannot bring family members.
What happens to my Student visa after I finish my course?▾
You can apply for the Graduate Route visa before your Student visa expires to stay and work for 2–3 years. Alternatively you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa if you have a job offer, or leave the UK.
Next steps
Official application
Apply for the 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