🇬🇧 Study in United Kingdom

The UK Student visa requires an unconditional offer and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed student sponsor. The Graduate Route makes post-study work straightforward for two years.

Visa
Student visa (Tier 4)
Gov fee
£524
Processing
3 weeks (outside UK)
Work rights
Up to 20 hours per week during term for degree-level study; full-time in holidays.
Post-study
Graduate Route gives 2 years (3 for PhD) to work or look for work after graduating.
English
IELTS for UKVI / SELT at CEFR B2 for degree level.
Avg tuition
£12k-38k / yr
Avg living
£13k-18k / yr

Financial requirement

Tuition for year 1 plus £1,483/mo (London) or £1,136/mo (outside London) for up to 9 months.

Step-by-step: Student visa (Tier 4)

Get an unconditional offer & CAS

Your licensed sponsor issues a CAS reference once you accept.

Prove your English & finances

Meet the SELT requirement and hold funds for 28 consecutive days.

Apply online & pay the IHS

Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, book biometrics.

Attend biometrics / use the app

Provide fingerprints or verify identity in the UKVI app.

Decision & travel

Enter up to 1 month before a course of 6+ months; collect your BRP or use eVisa.

What you will need

  • Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
  • Proof of English (approved SELT)
  • Proof of funds held 28 days
  • Tuberculosis test certificate (some countries)
  • Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) for some subjects

Top universities in United Kingdom

6 institutions that enrol international students.

Indicative figures for 2025-26. Confirm current fees, funds thresholds and rules at the official government source before applying. General information only, not immigration advice.