UK Student Visa Application Guide
Explore world-renowned British higher education. Learn about Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), English language assessment, 28-day financial evidence rules, and VFS biometrics with personalized guidance from Global Access Visa Consultancy.
Quick Overview
- Visa Route: Student Visa (points-based system)
- Mandatory Prerequisite: CAS from licensed student sponsor
- Visa Fee: £558 (standard international)
- Healthcare Surcharge: £776/year (IHS discounted student rate)
- Financial Rule: 28 consecutive days holding rule
- Our Assistance: CAS check, financial structuring, TB test prep & VFS guidance
CAS Reference
Unique 14-digit electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies issued by UK university.
28-Day Maintenance
Living cost & remaining tuition held uninterruptedly in bank for at least 28 days.
TB Screening
Tuberculosis medical test certificate from an approved UKVI clinic in India.
VFS Biometrics
In-person biometric submission and passport handover at official VFS Global center.
Who Can Apply for a UK Student Visa?
Applicants aged 16 or over applying for higher education in the UK under the Student Route must score 70 points under the UKVI Points-Based System:
Key Official Requirements
- ✓ CAS Validity: A CAS is valid for 6 months from issuance date.
- ✓ Application Window: Applications can be made up to 6 months before the course start date when applying outside the UK.
- ✓ Tuberculosis Test: Mandatory medical clearance certificate from designated clinic for residents of India.
- ✓ Graduate Route Eligibility: Successful completion enables applying for a 2-year post-study work visa in the UK.
UK Student Visa Document Checklist
Documents commonly required by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for Indian applicants.
1. Core Application Documents
- • Current valid passport with blank pages
- • CAS statement issued by the sponsor university
- • UKVI TB Test Certificate from an approved clinic
- • ATAS Certificate (for select postgraduate STEM subjects)
- • Biometric Residence Permit (if renewing or changing)
2. Financial Evidence (Strict 28-Day Rule)
- • Bank statements dated within 31 days of application date
- • Funds held continuously for at least 28 consecutive days
- • Education loan sanction letter (government/regulated bank)
- • Official financial sponsorship letter (scholarship/government)
- • Birth certificate and consent letter if using parents' funds
3. Academic & English Qualifications
- • Qualifications listed on the CAS statement
- • Original graduation degree, mark sheets & certificates
- • Proof of English proficiency (SELT / IELTS / PTE score report)
- • Statement of Purpose / Academic resume
- • Experience certificates for employment gaps (if applicable)
UK Student Visa Step-by-Step Process
A clear roadmap guiding your journey from admission offer to landing in the UK.
Receive Offer & CAS
Fulfill university conditions, pay your tuition deposit, and receive your 14-digit CAS statement.
Maintain 28-Day Funds
Ensure required maintenance funds are maintained continuously in your bank account for 28 days.
Undergo TB Medical Test
Book an appointment and complete your chest X-ray screening at an approved UKVI clinic.
Online UKVI Application
Fill out the official GOV.UK visa form, pay the visa fee (£490) and health surcharge (IHS).
Book VFS Appointment
Upload supporting documents electronically to the VFS portal and book biometric date.
Biometrics & Interview
Provide fingerprints and facial photograph at VFS; complete credibility interview if selected.
Visa Decision & Vignette
Receive passport stamped with entry vignette and official UKVI decision letter.
Travel & BRP Collection
Travel to the UK, clear immigration, and collect your Biometric Residence Permit or digital status.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Official processing-time standard published by UK Visas and Immigration (GOV.UK):
Standard Processing Service
Typically 3 Weeks (15 Working Days)Calculated from the date you attend your biometric appointment at the VFS Global centre.
Priority Visa Options
Optional Expedited ServicePriority service (typically within 5 working days) or Super Priority service (next working day) are available for an extra fee, subject to VFS availability.
* Note: Processing may take longer if your application is complex, documents require additional verification, or during peak intake seasons (July to September).
How Global Access Visa Consultancy Assists You
End-to-end guidance from our Hyderabad office ensuring accurate compliance with UKVI requirements.
CAS & Document Audit
Thorough audit of academic credentials, Statement of Purpose, and CAS statements to eliminate data errors.
28-Day Financial Calculation
Precise calculation of living costs in or outside London and date-matching for the mandatory 28-day holding requirement.
Credibility Interview Mock Sessions
Tailored practice sessions for UKVI credibility interviews, ensuring clear explanations of university choice, modules, and post-study career plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important questions and answers regarding UK student visa applications from India.
Disclaimer: Global Access Visa Consultancy provides consultation, documentation guidance and application-support services. Final visa decisions are made solely by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Visa approval and processing times cannot be guaranteed.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Every application is different. Tell us about your plans and our team will help you understand the relevant requirements, documentation and next steps.
GLOBAL ACCESS VISA CONSULTANCY
Chief Consultant: Mohammed Abubakar
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