COPYRIGHT 2025 © LegumLex Solicitors - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Ready to take your education global? Whether you’re just starting your application or need clarity on your next steps, our UK Student Visa Guide is here to help. Studying in the UK offers more than just top-ranked universities — it’s a direct pathway to an international career, cultural growth, and personal success.
Dreaming of an international education that sets you apart? A UK student visa gives you access to world-class universities, cutting-edge research, and a truly global learning experience. From top academic institutions to culturally rich campuses, studying in the UK puts you at the centre of innovation and opportunity.
The UK Student Visa is a type of visa that allows international students to live and study in the United Kingdom at a licensed educational institution. It is designed for students enrolled in full-time academic or professional courses such as undergraduate degrees, postgraduate programs, or foundation/pre-sessional English courses. This visa also offers limited work rights and access to post-study career opportunities through the Graduate Route.
To apply for a UK Student Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
Offer from a licensed sponsor: You must have an unconditional offer of a place on a course from a UK university or college that holds a student sponsor license.
CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies): Your institution will issue a CAS number, which is required for the visa application.
English language proficiency: You must demonstrate your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English through an approved test like IELTS UKVI, unless exempt.
Financial requirements: You must show that you can cover:
Tuition fees for your course
Living costs
Valid passport and supporting documents: These include academic qualifications, proof of funds, TB test (if applicable), and parental consent if under 18.
Genuine Student requirement: You must demonstrate that your intention is to study, not use the visa for other purposes.
The UK Student Visa application process typically involves the following steps:
Accept an offer from a licensed UK institution and receive your CAS.
Prepare your documents, including proof of finances, English proficiency, passport, and CAS details.
Apply online via the UK Government website (gov.uk).
Pay the visa fee (currently £490) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Book and attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre in your country.
Wait for a decision — standard processing takes about 3 weeks, but priority options may be available.
Receive your visa vignette (sticker) and collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in the UK within 10 days of arrival.
While you study, you can also work part-time — up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays. This not only helps with living costs but gives you valuable professional experience in the UK job market.
After graduation, the Graduate Route allows you to stay in the UK for up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) to work or search for jobs. It’s the perfect stepping stone to launch your international career.Best of all, the UK student visa process is simple, fast, and transparent, helping you plan with confidence and ease.
The UK Graduate Visa, also known as the Graduate Route, allows international students to stay in the UK for up to 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates) after completing an eligible course. This post-study visa provides graduates with the opportunity to work, look for work, or gain experience without needing employer sponsorship — making it an excellent pathway to long-term career opportunities in the UK.
To apply for a UK Graduate Visa, you must:
Have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or other eligible course from a licensed UK Higher Education Provider.
Ensure that your education provider has informed the Home Office that you have successfully completed your course.
Have studied in the UK for at least 12 months, or the full length of the course if shorter.
Apply before your Student Visa expires.
Prepare documents
Apply online via the UK Government website
Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Wait for a decision:
Most applications are processed within 8 weeks.
Work full-time in most roles
Be self-employed or freelance
Look for work without needing sponsorship
Travel freely in and out of the UK
However, you cannot:
Extend the visa
Apply for public funds (benefits)
Work as a professional sportsperson
COPYRIGHT 2025 © LegumLex Solicitors - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED