To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS):

• • Applicants must have an unconditional offer from a UK educational institution that is licensed to sponsor students.
  • The CAS is an electronic record with a unique reference number, not a physical document.
  • The visa application must be submitted within six months of receiving a CAS.

• Financial Requirements:

• • Applicants must prove they can support themselves while studying.
  • They need enough funds to cover full tuition fees for the first academic year and living expenses for up to 9 months.
  • The minimum required amount is £1,483 per month (if studying in London) or £1,136 per month (if studying outside London).

• English Language Proficiency:

• • Applicants must demonstrate a suitable level of English proficiency, matching the course requirements.
  • The same evidence used for the CAS must be submitted with the visa application.

• Genuine Student Test:

• • Some applicants may be required to attend an interview (by phone or in person) to confirm their study intentions and English language skills.

How Long is a Student Visa Valid?

The visa is usually granted for the duration of the course plus four additional months.

• Extensions: A Student visa can be extended for further studies.
• Switching Visas: Holders may switch to other visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker visa (if offered a qualifying job) or the Graduate visa after completing their studies.

Work Restrictions for Student Visa Holders

• Students at degree level or higher can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
• Work placements related to the course may be permitted.
• Self-employment and business activities are not allowed.

Time Limit on Student Visas

A general 5-year limit applies to studying at degree level or higher, except for certain fields such as:

• Architecture
• Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science
• Music at a Conservatoires UK (CUK) institution
• Certain Law courses

PhD students are exempt from this limit.

Can Family Members Join a Student Visa Holder?

• Eligible students (postgraduate level research degree courses or government-sponsored courses lasting at least 6 months) can bring:
  • Partners
  • Children under 18
• Family members receive visas for the same duration as the student and are permitted to work or start a business in the UK.

Does the Student Visa Lead to ILR?

The Student visa does not directly lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, time spent on a Student visa counts towards the 10-year Long Residence route to ILR.

How We Can Help

Ultimate Visas offers expert support for:

1. New Student visa applications
2. Visa extensions and renewals
3. Switching to other visa categories
4. Checking CAS details to prevent errors

We provide a full document review, application assistance, and unlimited support to ensure a successful application.