How much does a UK Student Visa cost?

The visa application fee is £490. You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year of study. For a 3-year degree, the IHS alone amounts to £2,328.

Can I work on a UK Student Visa?

Yes. Most Student Visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacations, as long as this is permitted by your sponsor institution.

When should I apply for my Student Visa?

You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts (3 months if applying from inside the UK). We recommend applying at least 3 months before your start date to allow time for any complications.

What happens if my visa is refused?

A refusal typically cites a specific reason (e.g., insufficient funds, incorrect documents). You can reapply with corrected information or, in some cases, appeal the decision. UNICONS provides support for refusals.

Do I need an IELTS for a Student Visa?

Most applicants need a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider. Your university may accept alternative tests, but these must come from the UKVI-approved list.

Can I bring my family on a Student Visa?

Government-sponsored students and those studying for courses above degree level at a higher education provider may be eligible to bring dependants. Standard Student Visa holders cannot usually bring family members.

Guidance Hub

Your Complete UK Student Visa Roadmap

Step-by-step guidance on applying for your UK Student Visa — from CAS numbers to biometrics, we cover everything.

Overview

A UK Student Visa (previously known as the Tier 4 visa) is required for most international students who want to study in the United Kingdom for longer than six months. The visa is granted by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) authority and is linked to your chosen institution.

Before applying, your university or college must be a UKVI-licensed Sponsor. Once you hold a confirmed offer, your institution will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) — a unique reference number that is central to your visa application.

UNICONS counsellors guide students through every stage of the visa process, from understanding financial requirements to preparing for the visa interview. Our success rate for visa applications exceeds 98%, and we provide full support if complications arise.

Step-by-Step Guide

1
Receive Your Unconditional Offer
Your UK university issues an unconditional offer after you meet all academic and English language requirements.
2
Obtain Your CAS Number
The institution sends you a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number, valid for 6 months, which you use in your visa application.
3
Prepare Financial Evidence
Show bank statements proving you can cover tuition fees plus £1,334 per month for London (or £1,023 per month outside London) for up to 9 months.
4
Complete the Online Application
Apply through the UKVI portal at gov.uk. Pay the visa fee (£490 for a Student Visa) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (currently £776 per year).
5
Book Biometric Appointment
Visit a UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) centre to submit your biometric data — fingerprints and photograph.
6
Submit Documents
Upload supporting documents including passport, CAS letter, financial statements, English language certificate, and any academic transcripts.
7
Await Decision
Standard processing takes 3 weeks. Priority processing (available in many countries) takes 5 working days. Super Priority takes 1 working day.
8
Travel to the UK
Once granted, your visa allows entry to the UK up to 1 month before your course start date (or 1 week for courses under 6 months).