You must apply using an online application form (unless you are applying from North Korea). You must choose between the application form for applicants outside the UK and the application form for applicants already within the UK. Both application forms can be found on the UK Visas and Immigration website.
This video will give you a step-by-step guide to applying for an overseas Student route visa.
This video will help you prepare for your visa credibility interview by reviewing some of the most common questions.
You can apply for your visa up to six months before your course starts. Do not apply before this date, as your application will be refused. You must apply for your visa at least two weeks before your course starts (or if you have the option of starting your studies online, at least two weeks before you plan to travel to the UK).
If you cannot apply for your visa by this deadline, you may have to defer your studies and start your course at a later date.
Make sure you allow enough time for the visa to be processed before your course starts or you plan to travel. It can take several weeks for your visa application to be processed and average processing times vary in each country. Lots of visa applications are made in June, July, and August so it can take longer to get your visa at these times because of the high demand.
If you think you will miss the start of your course because your visa has not been issued, you should let us know immediately. You may need to start your studies online or defer your studies to the next intake.
Any problems with your visa? Contact your local International Office or email our International Advice team to let us know.
You need to pay a fee to make a Student route visa application. These costs are paid directly to your local Visa Application Centre or online. You will be advised on how to pay when you apply.
From March 2018*, the cost of a Student route visa is:
In addition to the cost of your application, you will also need to demonstrate that you can cover living costs while your in the UK.
This means you will need to show that you have £1,334 per month for 9 months (£12,006) in your bank account, unless your course is shorter than 9 months*.
More information can be found here.
There are additional fees if you are applying for dependant visas or if you chose a priority service.
*These charges are accurate as of February 2021. They are subject to change and you should check the visa application fees before you apply.
Applying with dependants
If your postgraduate course starts on or after 1 January 2024 you can only bring dependants to the UK if you are studying either:
You will need to show additional funds for each dependant.
If you have or are applying for, leave under the Graduate route, please see the Graduate route information.
For more information on regulations and definitions, please visit the Dependants page on the UKCISA website.
