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UK Student Visa FAQ

Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ page to guide prospective international students through the UK’s Points-Based System Student Route. Navigating the complexities of the UK student visa application process can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with the specific requirements and procedures. This page aims to demystify the process, providing clear, detailed answers to frequently asked questions about eligibility criteria, the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), English language requirements, the assessment of applicant credibility, rules for dependants, and more. Whether you’re applying for a Student or Child Student visa or are a dependant of a student, our goal is to offer valuable insights to help you successfully embark on your educational journey in the UK.

UK Student Visa – Point-Based System Student Route Q&A

What are the validity requirements for applying under the Student route in the UK?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, the validity requirements for applying under the Student route in the UK include:
1. Validity Requirements for the Student Route: Applicants must meet specific criteria outlined in Appendix Student ST 1.1 to 1.5 of the Immigration Rules. These criteria ensure that the application is complete and meets the basic threshold for consideration.
2. Verification of Supporting Documents: Caseworkers are required to conduct verification checks if there are doubts about the authenticity of the supporting documents submitted by the applicant.
3. Consent from Financial Sponsors: If an applicant has previously received official financial sponsorship covering course fees and living costs, they must obtain consent from the financial sponsor for a further application to study in the UK as a Student. This is particularly relevant if the new application is made within 12 months of completing the course or within 12 months of the award of the scholarship.
4. Representatives: If an applicant has a UK-based representative, it must be ensured that the representative is approved to provide immigration advice. This includes being registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) or one of the designated authorities like the Law Society or the General Council of the Bar.
These requirements are designed to ensure that applicants are genuinely intending to study in the UK and have the necessary support and documentation to do so. It’s important for applicants to carefully review these requirements and ensure they meet them before submitting their application.

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How does the UK Home Office assess if an applicant is a genuine student?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, the UK Home Office assesses whether an applicant is a genuine student through several key considerations:
1. Credibility Assessment: The Home Office conducts a credibility assessment to determine if the applicant genuinely intends to study in the UK. This assessment is based on various factors, including the applicant’s immigration history, education history, and the course of study they intend to pursue.
2. Interviews: In some cases, the applicant may be required to attend an interview. During the interview, the applicant’s reasons for studying in the UK, their choice of course and institution, and their post-study plans may be discussed. The applicant’s answers are used to assess their genuineness.
3. Documentation and Evidence: The applicant must provide sufficient documentation and evidence to support their application. This includes evidence of acceptance into a course of study at a licensed sponsor, proof of financial means, and evidence of English language proficiency.
4. Consistency and Plausibility: The Home Office evaluates the consistency and plausibility of the applicant’s statements and evidence. This includes assessing whether the course of study is relevant to the applicant’s previous studies or career aspirations and whether the applicant has a clear plan for their studies and any post-study activities.
5. Previous Immigration History: The applicant’s previous immigration history, including any previous study in the UK or other countries, compliance with the terms of previous visas, and any previous refusals, is taken into account.
6. Financial Stability: The applicant must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their course fees and living costs in the UK. This is to ensure that the applicant can support themselves without recourse to public funds.
These criteria help the Home Office determine whether the applicant is using the student route appropriately and not as a means to enter or remain in the UK for other purposes. It’s important for applicants to be prepared to demonstrate their genuine intention to study and comply with the requirements of the student visa.

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What are the eligibility requirements for entry clearance and permission to stay as a Student or Child Student in the UK?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, the eligibility requirements for entry clearance and permission to stay as a Student or Child Student in the UK include:
1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Applicants must have a valid CAS from a licensed student sponsor. The CAS is a digital document that confirms the applicant has been accepted onto a course of study by an approved education provider.
2. Course Requirements: The course must meet certain criteria. For students, it should be a full-time course, a part-time postgraduate course, an approved foundation program, or an English language course at level B2 or above. For Child Students, the course should be at an independent school.
3. Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate they have enough money to support themselves and pay for their course. This varies depending on the length of the course and where they will study.
4. English Language Requirement: Students must prove their knowledge of the English language. This usually means passing a secure English language test (SELT) from an approved provider.
5. Consent of Parents or Guardians: For Child Students, consent from parents or legal guardians is required, along with proof of their relationship.
6. Academic Progression: The course must represent an academic progression from any previous studies undertaken in the UK unless exempted under specific circumstances.
7. Maintenance Funds: Applicants must show they have sufficient funds to cover their living costs while in the UK, unless they have been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date of application or their education provider can cover these costs.
8. Immigration History: Applicants must not have previously violated any immigration laws in the UK.
9. Genuine Student Requirement: Applicants must satisfy the Home Office that they are genuine students intending to complete their course of study.
10. Age Requirements: For the Student route, applicants must generally be over 16 years old. For the Child Student route, applicants must be aged between 4 and 17 years old.
These requirements are designed to ensure that applicants are genuine students who intend to study in the UK and are capable of supporting themselves during their stay. It’s important for applicants to carefully review these requirements and ensure they meet them before submitting their application.

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What is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and how is it used in the UK student visa application?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a crucial component in the UK student visa application process. Here’s how it is defined and used:
1. Definition of CAS: A CAS is an electronic record, not a physical document, which contains information about the student and their course of study. It is issued by a licensed sponsor, which is typically an educational institution that has the authority to offer courses to international students.
2. Purpose of CAS: The CAS is essentially a statement from the educational institution that they have accepted the student for a course of study. It serves as proof that the student has been accepted onto a course by a recognised UK educational institution.
3. Use in Visa Application: When applying for a Student visa, the applicant must include their CAS number in their application. This number allows UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to access the information in the CAS to confirm the student’s acceptance and the details of their course of study.
4. Information Included in a CAS: The CAS includes important details such as the student’s personal information, course details (like start and end dates, level of study, and place of study), and any fees paid or required. It may also include information about the student’s English language proficiency and academic qualifications.
5. Validity of CAS: A CAS is typically valid for use in a visa application for six months from the date it is issued. However, the student must apply for their visa within three months of the start date of their course as stated in the CAS.
6. Requirement for Visa Application: Having a valid CAS is a mandatory requirement for a Student visa application. Without it, the application cannot be processed.
7. Role in Points-Based System: The CAS is part of the points-based system for immigration. By obtaining a CAS, the student earns a specific number of points, which are required to be eligible for the visa.
The CAS is a key document in the UK student visa process, acting as a bridge between the educational institution and the UK immigration authorities, confirming the student’s acceptance and course details.

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Can an applicant switch into the Student or Child Student routes within the UK?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, applicants can switch into the Student or Child Student routes within the UK, subject to certain conditions:
1. Eligibility to Switch: Most applicants who are already in the UK on a different type of visa can apply to switch to the Student or Child Student route. However, there are exceptions. For instance, individuals on short-term visas, such as visitors, cannot switch to the Student or Child Student routes while in the UK.
2. Requirements for Switching: To switch to the Student route, applicants must meet the same requirements as those applying from outside the UK. This includes having a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor, meeting the English language requirement, and having sufficient funds to support themselves and pay for their course.
3. Application Process: The application to switch to the Student or Child Student route must be made online. Applicants need to provide evidence that they meet the requirements, such as details of their CAS and proof of finances.
4. Timing of Application: It’s important for applicants to apply before their current visa expires. Additionally, they should consider the start date of their course, as they can only apply to switch after they have received a CAS for the new course.
5. Child Student Route Specifics: For those switching to the Child Student route, the applicant must be aged between 4 and 17 years old and have a place on a course at an independent school. The same general requirements for switching apply.
6. Restrictions on Switching: Certain immigration categories may have restrictions or may not be eligible to switch into the Student or Child Student routes. Applicants should check the specific rules applicable to their current visa category.
7. Continuity of Residence: For those concerned about qualifying for settlement in the future, it’s important to note that switching visas within the UK can impact the continuity of residence, which is a factor in some settlement applications.
Applicants considering switching to the Student or Child Student routes should carefully review the specific requirements and conditions to ensure they are eligible and that their application aligns with their educational and long-term residency goals.

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What are the requirements for dependants of students applying to stay in the UK?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, the requirements for dependants of students applying to stay in the UK are as follows:
1. Eligibility of the Student: Dependents can only apply if the main applicant is either on a postgraduate level course (NQF level 7 or above) that lasts 9 months or more, a new government-sponsored student on a course that lasts longer than 6 months, or a Doctorate Extension Scheme student.
2. Relationship to the Main Applicant: Dependents must be a spouse, partner, or child under 18 years old of the main applicant (Student visa holder). Children over 18 can only apply if they are in the UK as dependents and are not leading an independent life.
3. Evidence of Relationship: Dependents must provide evidence of their relationship to the main applicant, such as a marriage certificate for a spouse or a birth certificate for a child.
4. Financial Requirements: Dependents must show they have enough money to support themselves while in the UK. The amount varies depending on the circumstances, such as the length and location of the main applicant’s course. The main applicant or dependents must have this money for a consecutive 28-day period ending no more than 31 days before the date of application.
5. Application Process: Dependents must apply online and pay the application fee and the healthcare surcharge. They must also provide biometric information.
6. English Language Requirement: There is no English language requirement for dependents.
7. Switching into the Dependent Route: In some cases, dependents already in the UK on a different visa can apply to switch to the dependent route.
8. Work Rights for Dependents: In most cases, dependents of students can work in the UK. However, they cannot work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach.
9. Study Rights for Dependents: Dependents can also study in the UK, but if they want to study a course that requires ATAS clearance, they must obtain this before starting the course.
10. Duration of Stay: The duration of the dependent’s stay will generally align with that of the main applicant.
These requirements ensure that dependents who accompany or join students in the UK have adequate support and are genuinely related to the main applicant. It’s important for dependents to carefully review these requirements and ensure they meet them before submitting their application.

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How is English language ability assessed in the UK student visa application process?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, the assessment of English language ability in the UK student visa application process is as follows:
1. Level of English Required: Applicants must prove they can speak, read, write, and understand English to a certain level. The required level depends on the course they are planning to study. For most courses, they need to demonstrate English language proficiency at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
2. Secure English Language Tests (SELTs): Applicants can prove their knowledge of English by passing a SELT from an approved provider. The test must cover reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
3. Exemptions Based on Nationality: Applicants from certain English-speaking countries are exempt from proving their English language ability. The list of these countries is specified in the guidance.
4. Exemptions Based on Previous Study: Applicants who have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in English, or who have already proven their level of English in a previous successful UK visa application, may also be exempt.
5. Degree Taught in English: If the applicant has a degree that was taught in English, it may be accepted as proof of their English language ability. This is subject to verification through services like NARIC to confirm the degree was taught or researched in English.
6. Level of English for Different Courses: The level of English required may vary depending on the type of course. For example, for degree level courses, the requirement is usually B2, while for some below degree level courses, it might be B1.
7. Validity of Tests: English language test results are typically valid for two years. Applicants need to ensure their test results are valid at the time of their visa application.
8. Requirement for Each Application: Applicants must meet the English language requirement each time they apply, unless exempt.
9. Child Students: For Child Students under the Student route, there are different English language requirements, or they may be exempt depending on their age and the type of school they are attending.
10. Documentation: Applicants must provide the necessary documentation to prove their English language proficiency, such as test certificates, as part of their visa application.
The assessment of English language ability is a crucial part of the UK student visa application process, ensuring that students have the necessary language skills to successfully undertake their studies in the UK.

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What factors are considered in assessing the credibility of a student visa applicant?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, the factors considered in assessing the credibility of a student visa applicant include:
1. Immigration History: The applicant’s previous compliance with UK and other countries’ immigration laws is reviewed. This includes their travel history, previous study in the UK or elsewhere, and adherence to the conditions of previous visas.
2. Education History and Progression: The applicant’s education history is assessed to ensure that their intended course of study in the UK represents genuine academic progression. This includes looking at the level and relevance of their previous studies in relation to the proposed course.
3. Course Choice and Study Plans: The rationale behind the choice of course and institution is evaluated. The applicant should be able to explain why they chose a particular course and how it fits into their career plans or academic progression.
4. Financial Circumstances: The applicant must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their course fees and living costs in the UK. Their financial situation, including the source and availability of these funds, is scrutinized.
5. Post-Study Plans: The applicant’s intentions after completing their studies are considered. They should be able to articulate their plans post-study, whether it involves returning to their home country or pursuing further studies.
6. Personal Circumstances: The applicant’s personal circumstances, including ties to their home country, are assessed. This includes family, social, and economic ties that would encourage them to return home after their studies.
7. English Language Ability: The applicant’s ability to speak, read, write, and understand English is evaluated, as it is essential for their integration into the UK educational system.
8. Documentation and Statements: The credibility of the documents and statements provided in the application is assessed. This includes the authenticity of educational and financial documents.
9. Interviews: In some cases, the applicant may be interviewed as part of the credibility assessment. The interview is used to clarify any doubts or questions regarding their application.
10. Genuine Student Requirement: Overall, the applicant must satisfy the decision-maker that they are a genuine student. This means they must intend to study the course for which they have been accepted, have a clear plan for their studies, and intend to leave the UK after their studies are completed, unless they are eligible to extend their stay.
These factors collectively help the UK Home Office determine whether the applicant genuinely intends to study in the UK and comply with the conditions of their visa.

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What are the rules regarding overstaying for applicants under the Student route?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, the rules regarding overstaying for applicants under the Student route are as follows:
1. Consequences of Overstaying: Overstaying a visa in the UK can have serious consequences. It can affect the individual’s credibility and future immigration applications, both in the UK and other countries.
2. 14-Day Grace Period: In some circumstances, if an individual overstays their visa by 14 days or less, their application for further leave may still be considered without the overstay being held against them. This is typically only applicable if there are good reasons beyond the applicant’s control that prevented them from applying in time.
3. Re-entry Bans: Individuals who have overstayed their visa by more than 30 days may face a re-entry ban to the UK for a certain period. This ban can last for one, two, five, or ten years, depending on the circumstances of the overstay and departure.
4. Impact on Future Applications: Overstaying can negatively impact future visa applications. Applicants may be required to disclose any previous overstays when applying for visas, and this history can influence the decision-making process.
5. Regularization of Stay: If an individual realizes they have overstayed, they should take steps to regularize their stay as soon as possible. This may involve leaving the UK and reapplying from their home country or making an application for further leave to remain in the UK, if eligible.
6. Exceptions and Compassionate Circumstances: In some cases, where there are compassionate or compelling reasons, the Home Office may consider applications from individuals who have overstayed. However, these circumstances are exceptional.
7. Responsibility of the Applicant: It is the responsibility of the applicant to be aware of the conditions of their visa, including its expiry date, and to take timely action to either extend their stay legally or leave the UK before their visa expires.
8. Legal Advice: Individuals who have overstayed or are at risk of overstaying are often advised to seek legal advice to understand their options and the best course of action.
It’s important for students under the Student route to adhere to the conditions of their visa, including the duration of stay, to avoid complications related to overstaying. Overstaying can have significant long-term implications for an individual’s immigration status and ability to return to the UK.

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How does the UK Home Office handle applications from dependants of overseas diplomats for the Student or Child Student routes?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, the handling of applications from dependants of overseas diplomats for the Student or Child Student routes is not explicitly detailed in the document.
Typically, the guidance documents for UK visas, including student visas, provide comprehensive information on general eligibility, application procedures, required documentation, and conditions for various applicant categories. However, the specific scenario of dependants of overseas diplomats might fall under a more specialized or exceptional category that is not covered in the standard guidance for student visas.
For dependants of overseas diplomats, the application process and requirements could be different due to their unique diplomatic status and the specific agreements or protocols that might apply between the UK and the respective countries of the diplomats. These cases often require consultation with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or a specialized section of the UK Home Office that handles diplomatic affairs.
Applicants in this category or those assisting them are advised to seek specific guidance from the UK embassy or consulate, or directly from the UK Home Office. They may also benefit from consulting with their own country’s diplomatic mission in the UK for advice on how to proceed with their application under the Student or Child Student routes.

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Is there any section in the Points-Based System Student Route guidance document that applies exclusively to Turkish students?

Based on the guidance document on the Points-Based System Student Route, there are no sections that specifically apply exclusively to students from Türkiye. The guidance generally applies to all international students, including those from Turkiye, who are applying for a Student or Child Student visa under the UK’s Points-Based System.
However, there are aspects of the guidance that Turkish students, like all international students, should pay particular attention to:
1. English Language Requirement: Students from Türkiye, as with other non-native English-speaking countries, must meet the English language requirement, typically by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT).
2. Financial Requirements: Turkish students must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their studies in the UK.
3. Documentation: All relevant documents, possibly including academic records and financial statements, should be in English or accompanied by certified translations.
4. Immigration History: The UK Home Office will consider the applicant’s immigration history, which includes any previous stays in the UK and other countries.
5. Credibility Assessment: As with all applicants, Turkish students will undergo a credibility assessment to determine their genuine intention to study.
6. Visa Application Process: The process for applying, including online application, biometric information submission, and attending an interview if required, applies to Turkish students as well.
It’s important for Turkish students to carefully review the entire guidance document to ensure they understand and meet all the requirements for the UK Student visa. Additionally, they should keep abreast of any bilateral agreements or specific provisions between Turkiye and the UK that might impact their application.

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Further Reading

  1. Student Route Caseworker Guidance

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