UK Student Visa 2025: Complete Guide
The UK Student Visa enables international students aged 16 or over to study full-time at recognized institutions across the United Kingdom. Recent changes in 2025 have affected eligibility, financial requirements, dependents, and post-study options—so careful planning is essential for a successful application.
Who Can Apply?
- Aged 16+ with a confirmed acceptance on a course from a licensed Student Sponsor (university, college, etc.)
- Have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued by your UK institution
- Meet the English language proficiency criteria (e.g., IELTS, PTE, or other approved tests)
- Show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses
- Provide parental consent if you’re under 18
Key 2025 Changes & Requirements
- Financial Requirements: As of January 2025, you must show at least £1,450/month for courses in London and £1,125/month outside London, for a minimum of nine months, plus enough funds for tuition fees
- Dependents: Only students enrolled in postgraduate research programs (e.g., PhDs) can bring dependents; those in undergraduate or taught postgraduate courses cannot bring family members
- Graduate Route Visa: Post-study work rights (Graduate Visa) now permit only 18 months’ stay after completing your studies, down from two years. PhD graduates may still qualify for a longer stay
- Application Fee: £524 (as of July 2025)
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements showing the required balance must typically be available for at least 28 consecutive days before application
- Additional Health Surcharge: Required to access NHS healthcare in the UK; paid during the application process
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) statement from your institution
- Proof of funds (bank statement, scholarship letter)
- English language test results
- Parental/guardian consent (if under 18)
- Tuberculosis test certificate (for applicants from select countries)
- Any additional documents required by your country or course (e.g., ATAS certificate for certain technology/STEM fields)
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Receive CAS from your UK institution
- Prepare supporting documents and evidence of financial and English requirements
- Apply online via the UK government website
- Pay the visa fee and health surcharge
- Book and attend a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Centre (fingerprints, photo, and supporting docs)
- If applying after 15 July 2025, you will only be issued an electronic eVisa, not a vignette sticker
- Wait for decision: average processing time is about 3 weeks outside the UK, 8 weeks inside the UK
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work while studying? Yes, but work hours and sectors are restricted by visa conditions and course type
- Can I bring family members? Only if studying a postgraduate research program (e.g., PhD)
- Can I stay after graduation? Eligible graduates may apply for 18 months (bachelor’s/master’s) or 3 years (PhD) via the Graduate Route
- What if my finances or documents change? Seek advice from your institution and update/or provide new supporting documents to UKVI
- Is the process digital? Yes—most applications and evidence upload are online, and eVisas have replaced the entry vignette from July 2025 onward
Why Choose the UK for Study?
- World-class universities and research
- Career and post-study work options
- Multicultural, global student community
