Europe – United Kingdom Visa – Student Visa – Child Student Visa

1. What are the requirements for obtaining a student visa in the UK?

To obtain a student visa in the UK, you must:

1. Be accepted into a full-time course at a recognized institution in the UK
2. Have enough money to support yourself during your studies and pay for your course fees
3. Be able to speak, read, write and understand English at an appropriate level for your course
4. Have a valid passport or travel document
5. Provide evidence of your immigration history and intentions to leave the UK after completing your studies
6. Meet the health requirements for entering and living in the UK
7. Not have any criminal convictions or previous immigration violations
8. Obtain Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your educational institution in the UK

2. How do I apply for a student visa in the UK?

To apply for a student visa in the UK, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Choose a course and institution: First, you will need to research and choose a full-time course at an accredited institution in the UK.

2. Check if you need a visa: Citizens from certain countries do not require a visa to study in the UK for short courses or under six months.

3. Get accepted and receive CAS: Once you have been accepted into a course, you will receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your educational institution.

4. Gather documents: You will need to gather all necessary documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial support, English language proficiency exam results, and any relevant academic qualifications.

5. Visa application online: Create an account on the official UK Visas & Immigration website and fill out an online application form with accurate information.

6. Pay application fee: After submitting your application, you will need to pay the application fee which can vary depending on factors like where you are applying from and how long you plan to stay in the UK.

7.Fingerprinting and photograph: Depending on your nationality, you may be required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photo) at a visa application center.

8. Submit documents: Once you have completed the online application and paid the fee, you will need to submit your application along with all required documents either by mail or in person at a visa application center.

9. Attend an interview: You may be required to attend an interview at the nearest British embassy or consulate in your home country.

10. Receive decision: The processing time for student visas can vary, but you can check the current processing times on the UK government website. Once a decision has been made, you will receive notification of whether your visa has been granted or refused.

3. How much does it cost to apply for a student visa in the UK?

The cost of applying for a student visa in the UK can vary depending on factors such as where you are applying from and how long you plan to stay in the UK. As of 2021, the standard application fee for a Tier 4 student visa is £348 when applying online from outside of the UK for courses longer than six months.

In addition to this, there may be additional costs for biometric information (if required), translation services, and courier fees for submitting documents. It is important to check the most up-to-date fees on the official UK government website before applying.

2. How long does it take to process a UK student visa application?


The processing times for a UK student visa application can vary depending on the country of application and the type of visa. However, on average, a standard student visa application for students outside of the EU can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks to be processed. It is recommended to apply for your visa at least three months before your intended travel date to allow enough time for processing and any potential delays.

3. Is there an age limit for applying for a child student visa?


Yes, there is an age limit for applying for a child student visa. Typically, children under the age of 18 are considered minors and are eligible to apply for a child student visa to study in a foreign country. In some cases, children between the ages of 16-18 may be allowed to apply for a student visa as adults. It is best to check with the specific country’s embassy or consulate for their age requirements for child student visas.

4. Can I work part-time on a UK student visa?


Yes, you are allowed to work part-time while on a UK student visa as long as you meet the following requirements:

1. Your course is full-time and degree level or above.
2. You are studying at a public higher education institution or a private higher education institution that is listed on the official sponsor list.
3. Your immigration permission says that you can work during term time.
4. You are enrolled in a course at or above level 6 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) given by any publicly funded institution of further or higher education or a UK recognised body.
5. You are studying an overseas course of degree level study that has been approved at least in part by an enduring education provider approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – also known as the ‘Tier 4 pilot’.
6. While your course is in session, you can work for up to 20 hours per week.
7. During holidays and semester breaks, you can work full-time (up to 40 hours per week).
8. You must not engage in business, self-employment or provide services as a professional sports person or coach.
9. Any voluntary/unpaid work you do must be an additional activity to your main course of study.

It’s important to note that if your course does not meet these requirements, you will not be eligible to work part-time on your student visa.

Additionally, there may be restrictions on working if you are studying certain subjects (such as dentistry or medicine), so it’s best to check with your university and/or Tier 4 sponsor before starting any employment.

5. What documents do I need to provide for a UK student visa application?


When applying for a UK student visa, you typically need to provide the following documents:

1. Valid passport or travel document: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK.

2. Visa application form: You can apply for a UK student visa online through the gov.uk website.

3. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): This is a unique reference number that you will receive from your chosen university or college after they have accepted you onto a course. You will need to enter this number on your visa application form.

4. Evidence of financial means: You may need to provide evidence that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in the UK. This could include bank statements, scholarship letters, or financial sponsor statements.

5. Proof of English language proficiency: If you are not from an English-speaking country, you will need to demonstrate your proficiency in English by taking an approved English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL.

6. Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable): Nationals from some countries are required to undergo TB testing before entering the UK. You can check if this applies to you on the gov.uk website.

7. Academic qualifications and transcripts: You may be asked to provide copies of your previous academic qualifications and transcripts as evidence of meeting the entry requirements for your chosen course.

8. Passport-sized photographs: You will usually need to submit two recent color photographs with your visa application.

9. Additional supporting documents: Depending on your individual circumstances, you may also be required to provide additional documents such as a police certificate, medical records, or proof of accommodation arrangements.

It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the type of course you are applying for. Always check the specific requirements for your country before applying for a UK student visa.

6. Do I need to have health insurance for my time in the UK on a student visa?


Yes, the UK government requires all non-EEA students to have health insurance during their time in the UK. This insurance must cover any necessary medical treatment, including emergency care and repatriation. You may purchase a specific student health insurance plan or use your home country’s national health insurance if it is accepted in the UK.

7. Can I extend my stay on a tier 4 (student. visa in the UK?


Yes, you can extend your stay in the UK on a tier 4 (student) visa. You will need to apply for a new visa before your current visa expires. To be eligible for an extension, you must meet the requirements set by the Home Office and have a genuine reason for extending your stay, such as continuing your studies or starting a new course.

You may also be able to switch to another type of visa, such as a work visa, if you meet the requirements for that category.

It is important to note that you must apply for an extension before your current visa expires. If you do not, you may be considered an overstayer and could face consequences such as deportation or being barred from returning to the UK in the future.

For more information on how to extend your tier 4 (student) visa, you should visit the official website of the UK Visas and Immigration department or consult with an immigration lawyer.

8. Are there any English language proficiency requirements for a UK student visa?


Yes, UK Student Visa applicants are required to demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency. This can be done by taking an approved English language test such as the IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE and achieving the minimum scores set by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Alternatively, applicants can also provide evidence of their English language proficiency if they are from a majority English-speaking country or have completed a previous degree taught in English. The specific requirements and acceptable tests may vary depending on the level of study and institution you are applying to. It is important to check with your chosen university for their specific requirements.

9. How much money do I need to show as proof of funds for a child student visa?


The amount of money required for a child student visa varies depending on the country you are planning to study in and the length of your stay. Generally, you will need to show enough funds to cover your tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and any additional costs such as travel or health insurance.

You may also be required to show proof of sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your studies. This can vary based on the cost of living in the country you will be studying in, but it is commonly around $10,000-$15,000 per year.

It is important to check with the immigration authorities of the country you are applying for a child student visa to determine the exact amount of funds required and any specific requirements for proof of financial support.

10. Can I bring dependents with me on my student visa to the UK?


Yes, you can bring dependents with you on your student visa to the UK if you meet certain requirements. Your dependents must be either your spouse, civil partner, or children under the age of 18. They must also be able to prove that they are financially dependent on you and show proof of sufficient funds to support their stay in the UK. Additionally, you may need to provide evidence of accommodation and healthcare arrangements for your dependents. It is important to note that your dependent’s visas will be connected to yours and they will have to leave the country if your visa expires or is cancelled. They may not be allowed to work while in the UK, except in very limited circumstances.

11. Does the school or university have to be sponsored by the British government for me to apply for a student visa?


No, the school or university does not have to be sponsored by the British government for you to apply for a student visa. You can apply for a student visa to study at any accredited institution in the UK.

12. Is there any financial aid available for international students in the UK?

Yes, there are a few options for financial aid available to international students in the UK. Some universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, and some governments also offer scholarships or loans to their citizens studying abroad. Additionally, some organizations and charities offer funding for specific fields of study or countries. It is important to research and apply for these opportunities early, as competition can be high.

13. Can I switch from a tier 4 (student. visa to another type of visa while in the UK?

Yes, it is possible to switch from a tier 4 (student) visa to another type of visa while in the UK. However, you must meet the eligibility requirements and follow the correct application process for the visa you wish to switch to. It is generally advised to seek guidance from a qualified immigration advisor or consult with the Home Office for specific information on switching visas.

14. Do I need to leave the country if my student visa expires before graduation?

Yes, if your student visa expires before you graduate, you will need to either extend your visa or leave the country. It is important to always maintain a valid student visa while studying in a foreign country. Contact your university’s international office for guidance on how to extend your visa or any other necessary steps.

15. Are there any restrictions on what type of course I can study on a student visa in the UK?

There are certain criteria that must be met for a course to be eligible for a student visa in the UK. Generally, the course must be full-time and lead to a recognized qualification at a licensed institution. The institution must also have Tier 4 sponsor status. Additionally, there are restrictions on studying some courses such as those at publically-funded schools, part-time courses, and distance learning programs. It is important to research and confirm that your chosen course is eligible for a student visa before applying.

16. Is it possible to study part-time while on a tier 4 (student. visa?


Yes, it is possible to study part-time while on a Tier 4 (student) visa. However, there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met.

According to the UK government’s immigration rules, Tier 4 students are only allowed to work part-time during term-time and full-time during vacations. This means that you can study part-time while on a Tier 4 visa as long as you do not exceed the maximum number of working hours allowed by your visa.

Additionally, in order to legally study part-time, you must be enrolled in a course that is at least level 6 or above on the UK Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF). You must also ensure that your studies are not negatively impacting your main course of study.

It is important to note that if you wish to switch from studying full-time to part-time while on a Tier 4 visa, you will need to inform your education provider and apply for permission from the Home Office before making any changes.

If you are unsure about whether you are eligible to study part-time on a Tier 4 visa, it is best to consult with an immigration advisor or contact the UK Visas and Immigration department for clarification.

17. Will my degree from an accredited institution be recognized globally?

Yes, a degree from an accredited institution is typically recognized globally. However, it is always best to check with the specific country or institution you are interested in to ensure your degree will be recognized.

18. How long can I stay in the UK after completing my studies on a tier 4 (student. visa?


After completing your studies on a Tier 4 (Student) visa, you can remain in the UK for a maximum of four months if your course was less than six months, or for two months if your course was six to eleven months long. If your course was longer than 12 months, you will be allowed to stay in the UK for an additional four months after completion of your studies. During this time, you can look for work or switch to another immigration category, such as a Tier 2 Work visa or a Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa. It is important to note that you must make arrangements to leave the UK before your visa expires; otherwise, you could face penalties and difficulties with future visa applications.

19 .Can non-EU citizens also apply for scholarships and financial aid at universities in Europe?

Yes, non-EU citizens can also apply for scholarships and financial aid at universities in Europe. Many universities in Europe offer scholarships specifically for non-EU students to attract a diverse and international student body. These scholarships may have different eligibility requirements and application processes than those available to EU citizens, so it is important to check with each individual university for more information.

In addition, there are also external scholarship opportunities available for non-EU citizens looking to study in Europe. These may be offered by governments, organizations, or foundations from various countries around the world. It is recommended to thoroughly research and apply for these opportunities as early as possible, as they often have strict deadlines and high competition.

Lastly, non-EU citizens may also be eligible for financial aid from their home countries or through private organizations. It is important to inquire with your home country’s government or relevant organizations about any potential funding opportunities for international study.

Overall, while the process of obtaining scholarships and financial aid for non-EU citizens may be more competitive and require additional research and effort, there are abundant resources available to help make studying in Europe a financially feasible option.

20 . What is Brexit and how will it affect international students studying in the UK?


Brexit is the term used to describe the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union (EU), which it joined in 1973. After a referendum in 2016, the UK government triggered the process of leaving the EU by invoking Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty.

The precise impact of Brexit on international students studying in the UK is still uncertain, as negotiations between the UK and EU are ongoing. However, here are some potential ways Brexit could affect international students:

1. Changes to immigration rules: Currently, EU citizens can study in the UK without needing a visa and have access to certain rights and benefits. After Brexit, this may change. The UK government has proposed introducing a new points-based immigration system that would treat EU and non-EU citizens equally. This could make it more difficult for international students from EU countries to come and study in the UK.

2. Higher tuition fees: EU citizens currently benefit from “home fee status,” meaning they pay the same tuition fees as UK citizens. After Brexit, it is possible that EU citizens may face higher tuition fees, similar to those paid by non-EU international students.

3. Limited access to funding and scholarships: As an EU member state, the UK currently participates in programs like Erasmus+, which provides funding for student exchanges and placements abroad. After Brexit, the UK’s participation in these programs may end, limiting opportunities for EU students seeking financial support for their studies in the UK.

4. Uncertainty over future job prospects: Many international students choose to study in the UK with hopes of staying on after graduation to work. With Brexit potentially leading to tighter immigration policies and limitations on freedom of movement, there may be fewer job opportunities available for international graduates in the future.

Despite these potential changes, universities in the UK remain committed to providing a welcoming environment for international students from all over world. They are working closely with government agencies to ensure that any changes to immigration policies are communicated clearly and in a timely manner.