Guide to UK Student Visa Process
Getting visa in a smooth process is a big challenge .Get an overview of the UK student visa process and different UK student visa categories (short-term, student, or child visa) that those of a different nationality need to apply to study in the UK.
UK Student Visa Categories
The United Kingdom offers three different categories of study visas, each distinguished by different factors such as the applicant’s age, the duration of the chosen course of study, and the type of program selected.
- Student Visa
- Short-term Study Visa
- Child Student Visa
It is a prerequisite for individuals aged 18 or above, who have been accepted into courses lasting 6 months or more, or who have enrolled in English language programs with a term of 11 months or longer. A student visa is required for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs in the UK. This visa allows an applicant to stay during the length of the program and work while attending school.
Under this category, if you are pursuing a course at the degree level, you are typically permitted to remain in the United Kingdom for a maximum duration of 5 years. Those whose academic program is not degree-level are usually only allowed to stay in the UK for a maximum of two years. After completing the program, individuals can extend their stay in the UK by applying for a visa extension, and meeting eligibility criteria. This may involve further studies, transitioning to a Student visa, or a Graduate visa, which allows a minimum stay of 2 years after course completion.
The UK student visa designated for full-time degree-level programs permits students to engage in employment for a maximum of 20 hours per week during “term time,” which is the duration specified by the student sponsor for academic pursuits. This employment may involve both paid and non-paid positions with single or multiple organizations.
It is a mandatory requirement for individuals aged 16 or above who have been accepted into English language courses with a program duration of less than 11 months. To pursue your English language course within the United Kingdom, it is essential to enroll in an accredited institution either within the UK or an authorized overseas education provider, given you meet the eligibility criteria for studying in the UK as part of your program. This visa category does not allow for visa extensions.
Your stay in the UK does not exceed 11 months, you are permitted to stay in the country for the duration of your course plus in addition to an extra 30 days.
Employment activity under this visa category, including paid or unpaid positions, apprenticeships, or work experience is not allowed.
Students aged 4 to 17 who have secured admission to a UK-based educational institution and have a valid Tier 4 sponsor. You must have received an unconditional offer of admission to an independent school program.
This visa category provides for a program term of up to 6 years for students under the age of 16, and up to 3 years for those aged 16 or 17, with a 4-month extension after the program expires. The duration of stay is determined by the applicant’s age, application date, and program length.
If you are 16 or older, you may work up to 10 hours per week part-time during term, full-time during holidays, or on a work placement as mandated by your program but full-time employment is not allowed.
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