If you are 16 or over and want to study a course at higher education level in the UK lasting longer than six months, you will most likely need to apply for a student visa through the Student Route. This costs £490 per applicant. If you want a priority or super-priority service it will cost more. Follow this step-by-step guide to applying for your student

 
Visa:
Step 1: Apply to your chosen university (or universities) and receive an unconditional offer.

Step 2: Once you have received your unconditional offer, and you have accepted it, your university will give you adocument called a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (or CAS). This will cost £25.

Step 3: Once you have your CAS, you can begin the visa application process. You can apply for your student visa up to six months before your course starts. You must pay an application fee (£490 for students) and have a current passport.

European students: If you’re from an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app on a smartphone to complete the identity stage of your application.

Step 4: As part of your application, you will need to pay a fee called an Immigration Health Surcharge. This gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service. Students receive a 25 per cent discount on the usual cost, so the rate for student visa holders is £470 per year.

European students: If you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you may be able to apply for a refund of the cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge. Check the GOV.UK website to find out if you are eligible to do so.

Step 5: As part of your student visa application, you may need to prove your knowledge of the English language. Different universities have different requirements, so check what form of English language evidence you will need with your university.

Step 6: You will need to complete your application and have it accepted before you arrive in the UK. Your university will advise you about your visa application, so don’t be afraid to contact the international office for support. Some universities have dedicated immigration advisors like us that are on hand to support international students with their visa applications.