Visas for Study in the UK

Not every student will need to obtain a Visa before they travel to the UK to begin their studies. However all students will have to meet the same requirements to be admitted to the UK with 'student' immigration status. The rules regarding immigration can change regularly but the following websites should be able to provide you with up to date information on what you need to do before and when you come to the UK.

Also once students are in the UK it may be necessary to extend your permission to stay in the UK (known as leave to remain, LTR). This will happen when the LTR you were given when you first applied for your visa or entered the UK does not cover you until the end of your course. Students should be aware that there is now a charge of 295 pounds (by mail) or 500 pounds (to apply in person). Up to date information on how to do this is again covered by the websites below.


UKCOSA:

Contains detailed information on immigration and extending your stay in the UK. In particular see the 'immigration' section on of their guidance notes.

UKvisas:

Official government website containing information on immigration procedures before you come to the UK. Also includes an online questionnaire which will tell you whether or not you need to apply for a Visa before you arrive.


Home Office Borders Agency:

The British Government department which deals with applications to remain in the UK once you are here. Includes information on how to apply to extend your stay as a student (or for other reasons) and has a downloadable version of the application forms you will need.


If you are still in doubt about what you need to do in order to come to the UK then we suggest that you contact the British Consulate in your home country. details of your nearest British Embassy/High Commission can be found at the Foreign Office website.