UK Student Visa: Your Pathway to Studying in the United Kingdom

Welcome to Rise Ranks Immigration Consultancy, your trusted partner in navigating the UK Student Visa application process. With our extensive expertise and dedication, we ensure a smooth and successful journey towards achieving your academic goals in the United Kingdom.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a UK Student Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Course Offer: You must have an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor, which is confirmed by your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
• Financial Proof: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs. The amount varies depending on your course location and duration. Typically, you need to show:
  • £1,334 per month for living costs if studying in London.
  • £1,023 per month for living costs if studying outside London.
• English Proficiency: You must prove your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English through an approved test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or another recognized test.
• Parental Consent: If you are aged 16 or 17, you must provide written consent from your parents or guardians, along with proof of their relationship to you.

For students aged 16 or 17 intending to study at an independent school in the UK, a Child Student Visa may be more appropriate.

Application Process

The application process and timeline vary depending on your location:

• Applying from Outside the UK:
  • When to Apply: Up to 6 months before your course starts.
  • Processing Time: Typically, a decision is made within 3 weeks.
• Applying from Inside the UK:
  • When to Apply: Up to 3 months before your course starts and before your current visa expires. Your new course must commence within 28 days of your current visa’s expiration.
  • Processing Time: Expect a decision within 8 weeks.

The duration of your stay on a UK Student Visa depends on your course level and length:

• Degree-Level Courses: If you are 18 or older and enrolled in a degree-level course, you can stay for up to 5 years.
• Below Degree-Level Courses: You can typically stay for up to 2 years. For specific details tailored to your situation, refer to the official guidelines or consult our expert advisors.

You may extend your stay in the UK under certain conditions:

• Extending Your Student Visa: If you need more time to complete your current course or start a new one. Ensure you apply before your current visa expires.
• Switching to a Student Visa: If you hold another type of visa and wish to switch to a Student Visa while in the UK.
•  Graduate Visa: After successfully completing your course, you can apply for a Graduate Visa, allowing you to stay in the UK for at least 2 years to work or seek employment.

Pre-Travel Arrangements

You are permitted to enter the UK before your course begins under the following conditions:

• Courses Lasting 6 Months or Less: Arrive up to 1 week before the course start date.
• Courses Lasting More Than 6 Months: Arrive up to 1 month before the course start date.

Fees and Surcharges

• Visa Application Fee: £490, whether applying from outside or inside the UK.
• Healthcare Surcharge: An additional fee based on the length of your visa. This surcharge allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Typically, the charge is £470 per year.

Bringing Dependents

Your partner and children (dependents) may join you in the UK. Each dependent must apply separately and pay the visa fee. You will need to show proof of additional financial resources to support them.

Permitted and Prohibited Activities Permitted Activities:

• Full-time study at your chosen institution.
• Work as a student union sabbatical officer.
• Part-time work during term time (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during vacations, depending on your course level and sponsor.

Prohibited Activities:

• Accessing public funds (benefits) or state pensions.
• Working in certain jobs, such as a professional sportsperson or sports coach.
• Engaging in self-employment or business activities.
• Studying at an academy or local authority-funded school.

Your visa conditions will specify your permitted activities and any restrictions.