The UK Student visa is a points based application. If your documents are complete and consistent, it is administrative rather than discretionary. Most problems come from timing and financial evidence, not from eligibility.
The core requirements
- An unconditional offer and a CAS. The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies is a reference number issued by your university once you have met all conditions and paid any required deposit.
- English language ability, evidenced either by your university assessment or by a Secure English Language Test.
- Financial evidence covering your first year of tuition, minus anything already paid, plus living costs for up to nine months at the published monthly rate, which is higher in London.
- A valid passport and, where required, a tuberculosis test certificate from an approved clinic.
- Parental consent and birth certificates where funds are held by a parent.
The money rule that catches people out
Funds must normally have been held in a qualifying account for a consecutive 28 day period ending no more than 31 days before you apply, and the closing balance must never dip below the required amount during those days. A lump sum deposited a week before you apply is the single most common refusal reason. Loan letters and official sponsor letters are accepted in specific formats; ordinary investment accounts often are not.
Costs
Budget for the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge for each year of your course plus the extra months of leave. The health surcharge is usually the larger figure and is paid up front.
Timeline
- Applications can normally be made up to six months before the course start date.
- Standard processing outside the UK is often around three weeks, but peak season is slower.
- You will complete an online form, pay, and then either attend a biometrics appointment or verify your identity using the app.
Common refusal reasons
- Bank statements that do not cover a full 28 days, or that dip below the threshold.
- Documents in another language without a certified translation.
- A name or date of birth that does not match the passport.
- A credibility interview answer that does not match the course chosen.
Rules and fees change. Always confirm current amounts on the UK government website before you apply.
