UK Student Visa Applications – Student Visa Lawyers Hertfordshire

UK Student Visa Services

Student Visa Requirements UK

To apply for a UK Student visa, applicants normally need to show:

• You are aged 16 or over
• You have been offered a place by a licensed Student sponsor
• You have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
• You have enough money to pay course fees and support yourself, unless exempt
• You meet the English language requirement
• You have parental consent if under 18
• You provide a TB certificate if required by your country of residence
• You have an ATAS certificate if your course and nationality require it

The Home Office usually requires a current passport or valid travel document and a CAS from the course provider. Other documents may be required depending on your circumstances.

Student Visa Financial Requirement

Applicants usually need to show they have enough money to pay for the course for one academic year, up to 9 months, as stated on the CAS.

You may also need to show maintenance funds. Current GOV.UK guidance states that students normally need:

• £1,529 per month for up to 9 months for courses in London
• £1,171 per month for up to 9 months for courses outside London

Funds must usually be held for at least 28 consecutive days, with the end date of that 28-day period falling within 31 days of the visa application date. Some applicants do not need to prove funds if they have been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date of application.

Financial evidence is one of the most common refusal points. Bank statements, account holder details, dates and balances must be correct.

English Language Requirement for Student Visas

Student visa applicants must normally prove English language ability in reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Current GOV.UK guidance states that the required CEFR level depends on the level of study:

• Degree level or above: CEFR Level B2
• Below degree level: CEFR Level B1

If you do not already have accepted English evidence, you may need to pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider.

Common Reasons Student Visas Are Refused

Student Visa Dependants

Some Student visa applicants may be able to bring a partner or children as dependants, depending on their course level, sponsorship and circumstances.

Dependant applications require careful evidence of relationship, finances, immigration history and eligibility. We assist students and families with dependant applications and refusal risk reviews.

Student Visa Processing Times and Fees

Current GOV.UK guidance states that the Student visa application fee is £558 whether applying from outside the UK or applying to extend or switch from inside the UK.

Applicants also usually need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. Standard decision times are usually around 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK and around 8 weeks for extensions or switching applications inside the UK.

Priority services may be available depending on location and application circumstances.

How N & M Immigration Lawyers Assist

• Assess Student visa eligibility
• Review CAS details before submission
• Check financial evidence and maintenance funds
• Advise on English language evidence
• Check whether ATAS or TB evidence is required
• Prepare Student visa applications, extensions and switching applications
• Review refusal letters and advise on administrative review or reapplication

We prepare Student visa applications in line with Home Office Immigration Rules and UKVI caseworker guidance, helping reduce refusal risks before submission.

Related Immigration Pages

• Student Visa Refusal
• Administrative Review
• English Language Requirements
• Application Checking Service
• UK Visitor Visa
• Immigration Services

FAQs – UK Student Visa Applications

Can I apply for a UK Student visa from overseas?

Yes. You can apply from outside the UK if you meet the Student visa requirements and have a valid CAS from a licensed sponsor.

Can I extend my Student visa in the UK?

You may be able to extend your Student visa if you are eligible, for example to continue your studies in the UK.

Can I switch to a Student visa?

You may be able to switch to a Student visa from inside the UK if your current visa category permits switching and you meet the Student route requirements.

What happens if my Student visa is refused?

Your refusal letter should explain whether administrative review is available. You should obtain advice before reapplying or requesting review.