Jul 5, 2025
Article
UK Student Visa: Fees, Eligibility and Application Process
What’s New?
Recent changes in UK immigration policies have impacted student and work visas:
- Higher Salary Threshold: Work visa applicants must now meet a £25,000 salary threshold.
- Longer ILR Path: Indefinite Leave to Remain eligibility extended to 10 years.
- Reduced Post-Study Stay: Graduate visa stay reduced to 18 months.
- Stricter English Language Rules: Higher English proficiency requirements for work visa applicants and dependents.
- New Family Visa Restrictions: Tighter rules for family-related immigration benefits.
Overview
A UK student visa is essential for Indian students planning to pursue education in the United Kingdom. With over 600,000 international students, Indian nationals form nearly 30% of the non-EU student population in the UK. Students can apply for a visa up to six months prior to their course start date, and decisions typically arrive within 3 weeks.
UK Student Visa Types
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 4 (General) Student Visa | 16+ and enrolled in degree-level course | £490 (₹51,550) |
| Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa | 4 to 17 years, studying at an independent school | £490 (₹51,550) |
| Short-Term Study Visa | Studying English language course (up to 11 months) | £490 (₹51,550) |
New UK Student Visa Rules (Effective Jan 2025)
- Proof of funds: £1,483/month (London), £1,136/month (other UK cities) for up to 9 months.
- Only postgraduate or government-sponsored students may bring dependents.
- No maintenance fund proof required for students living in UK on a visa for 12+ months.
UK Student Visa Eligibility
- Accepted by a licensed UK university or college.
- Proof of funds for tuition + living expenses.
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE).
- Students aged 16–17 require parental consent or may apply under the Child Visa.
Student Visa Application Process
- Apply to your chosen UK institution and receive an unconditional offer.
- Receive CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).
- Begin the visa application online and pay the application fee.
- Pay Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Submit biometrics (photo and fingerprint) at a Visa Application Centre.
- Prove English proficiency and submit documents.
Documents Required
- Valid passport
- CAS from UK university
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Proof of funds
- TB test results (if required)
- Criminal record certificate (if applicable)
- Consent letters for minors (under 18)
- Recent passport-size photo
UK Student Visa Processing Time
- Standard Processing: 3 weeks from biometrics/interview.
- Priority Service: 5-day decision — ₹52,600
- Super Priority Service: 24-hour decision — ₹1.05 lakh
Note: No travel bookings should be made before receiving your visa approval.
Visa Validity & Extensions
- Degree-level students (18+): Stay up to 5 years.
- Below degree level: Stay up to 2 years.
- Visa Extension: Apply online before expiration if continuing studies. Fee: £490 + IHS.
Graduate Route Visa (Post-Study Work Visa)
- Stay for 2 years after completing undergraduate/postgraduate degrees.
- Stay for 3 years if you completed a PhD.
- Must apply from within the UK before the student visa expires.
Visa Rejection Reasons
- Incomplete/Missing Documents: Every required document must be submitted in original or with justification.
- Financial Proof Errors: