Student Visa Overview
The Student Visa (formerly the Tier 4 Student visa) allows individuals aged 16 or over to come to the UK to study a full-time course at a Home Office-approved educational institution holding a Student sponsor licence. The course must be at degree level or above (or in certain cases, below degree level where a course of English language study or pre-sessional English is involved).
International students are an important part of the UK's academic and cultural life, and the Student Visa route is one of the most-used routes into the UK each year. Despite this, Student Visa applications are refused where requirements are not properly met or adequately evidenced.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Student Visa, applicants must:
- Have been accepted on a course at a licensed Student sponsor and been issued a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Meet the financial requirement — demonstrating they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs for the first year of their course (or the full course if shorter than nine months)
- Meet the English language requirement at the appropriate level for their course
- Be a genuine student with a genuine intention to study
- Meet any required ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance, if applicable to the course subject
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
The CAS is a unique reference number issued by the sponsoring educational institution. It is required to make a Student Visa application and contains details of the course, fees, and relevant study conditions. The CAS is valid for six months from the date of issue, and applicants must apply within that period.
Financial Requirements
Student Visa applicants must demonstrate they hold sufficient funds to cover the first year's tuition fees (as specified on the CAS) and the living costs element — which varies depending on whether the institution is in London or outside London. Funds must have been held continuously for a 28-day period ending no earlier than 31 days before the application date.
Working During Studies
Student Visa holders are generally permitted to work in the UK during term time, subject to limits on the number of hours per week. The specific working rights depend on whether the student is at a Higher Education Provider or another institution, and whether the course is at degree level. Working in breach of conditions constitutes an immigration violation and can have serious consequences for future applications.
Extending and Switching
Student Visa holders who wish to extend their stay to continue their studies, or to switch to a different course, must apply before their current leave expires. Britlaw Solicitors advises on extensions and in-country switches, including where there have been changes to the course or sponsor, or where there have been previous immigration issues.
How Britlaw Can Help
Our solicitors advise students on all aspects of the Student Visa process — from eligibility assessment before the initial application, through to extensions, switches, and any complications that arise during the course of study. We advise on both the initial entry clearance application and in-country applications, and can assist where there have been previous refusals or difficulties.