UK Student Visa - The Complete 2026 Guide
If you’re planning to study in the UK in 2026, understanding the Student visa process is essential. Whether you’re heading to university, college or an English language course, this guide breaks down everything you need to know; clearly, simply and in plain English.
What Is the UK Student Visa?
The UK Student visa allows international students aged 16 or over to study at an approved UK educational institution.
It replaced the old Tier 4 (General) visa and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.
This is the minimum mandatory criteria for all applicants:
Have an offer from a licensed student sponsor
Receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Meet English language requirements
Show sufficient funds for tuition and living costs
Who Can Apply?
You can apply for a Student visa if you:
Are aged 16 or over
Have been offered a place on a course by a UK institution with a sponsor licence
Have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course
Can speak, read, write and understand English
Your course must meet eligibility requirements, such as being a full‑time degree‑level programme, an approved foundation course or an English language course at CEFR B2 level or above
What Is a CAS?
A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a unique reference number issued by your university or college once you accept your offer.
A CAS is not a physical document , it is an electronic record linked to your VISA application.
You’ll need your CAS before submitting your visa application. It confirms:
Your course details
Tuition fees
Start and end dates
Sponsor licence number
Financial Requirements in 2026
You must prove you have enough money to:
Pay outstanding tuition fees for the first year
Cover living expenses
Living cost requirements:
£1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) if studying in London
£1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) outside London
Funds must usually be held in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying. Some nationalities are exempt from providing bank statements, depending on UKVI’s differentiation arrangements
You may be exempt from financial evidence requirements depending on your nationality or if you’ve lived in the UK with valid immigration status for 12 months or more.
English Language Requirements
Most applicants must demonstrate English ability at CEFR level B2 (degree level) or B1 (below degree level).
Accepted evidence may include:
Secure English Language Test (SELT)
GCSE, A-Level or equivalent
Degree taught in English
Your university will confirm whether your evidence meets UKVI standards
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
1. Accept Your Offer
Secure your place and receive your CAS.
2. Prepare Documents
Typically required:
Passport
CAS reference
Financial evidence
English language proof
TB test results (if applicable)
3. Apply Online
Applications are made via the official UK government website.
4. Pay Fees
Visa application fee
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
5. Attend Biometric Appointment
You’ll provide fingerprints and a photo at a visa application centre.
6. Wait for Decision
Standard processing times are typically around 3 weeks from outside the UK.
Visa Fees (2026)
Application fee: £490
Immigration Health Surcharge: £776 per year of study
Fees are subject to change, so always check official guidance before applying.
Can You Work on a Student Visa?
Yes, but restrictions apply.
If studying at degree level or above:
Up to 20 hours per week during term time
Full-time during official holidays
If studying below degree level:
Up to 10 hours per week
You cannot be self-employed or work as a professional sportsperson.
Bringing Dependants
Recent rule changes mean most students can no longer bring dependants unless they are:
Studying a postgraduate research programme (PhD or equivalent)
Government-sponsored students on longer courses
It’s important to check current Home Office guidance before planning family relocation.
How Long Can You Stay?
You can usually stay for:
The length of your course
Plus, a short additional period after completion
After graduating, you may be eligible for the Graduate visa, allowing you to remain in the UK for:
2 years (undergraduate and master’s graduates)
3 years (PhD graduates)
Common Reasons for Refusal
Applications are often refused due to:
Incorrect financial evidence
Incomplete documents
CAS errors
Failure to meet English requirements
Credibility concerns in interviews
Attention to detail is critical.
Can You Switch Visas in the UK?
In many cases, you can switch to a Student visa from inside the UK, provided you’re not on a visitor visa or certain short-term categories.
You may also switch from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa after securing a qualifying job offer.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a UK Student visa in 2026 is a structured but manageable process as long as you prepare properly. The key areas to focus on are:
Accurate financial documentation
Meeting English language standards
Applying within the correct timeframe
Following Home Office guidance carefully
With the right preparation, your journey to studying in the UK can begin smoothly and confidently.
If you’d like help reviewing your eligibility or preparing your application, professional advice can significantly reduce the risk of refusal and ensure everything is submitted correctly the first time.
