As an international student wishing to study in the UK, you will need a Tier 4 visa. A UK Tier 4 visa is usually issued to a student who has been offered preliminary admission study in the UK.
The student will be sponsored for level 4 by the educational institution where the student will study and the visa will be issued to study a specific course at the institution.
It is worth noting that the UK education system is undeniably well organized and very well structured. Many other countries use the UK education system template as a guide.
All international students coming to the UK must have a student visa. The only exceptions are students from Switzerland and the European Union.
Just take your time and read this article through. We have put together all the details you need to learn more about applying for a UK Tier 4 student visa as an international student.
Why Study in the UK?
The UK is a world leader in many areas of education, including engineering, science, art and design, business and management, law, and finance.
Britain’s reputation and heritage as a world center for scientific research make it a magnet for some of the world’s best thinkers. With just one percent of the world’s population, the UK is responsible for eight percent of the world’s scientific publications.
The UK has a world-renowned education system with qualifications that can really improve your future. It attracts over 600,000 international students each year to a variety of programs ranging from English courses to Ph.D. students.
Student visas are only issued to full-time students. A student visa cannot be issued for part-time courses. Eligibility for a student visa is calculated using a points system. Applicants must achieve at least 40 points before they can get the visa
How the points are awarded in UK Tier 4 Student Visa
Confirmation letter (30 points)
Before your visa application is considered, you will need an official letter of admission from a recognized university in the UK.
This letter, the so-called Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), is worth 30 points. All universities in the UK must have “Highly Trusted Status” to issue CAS letters.
When in doubt, check with the school of your choice to see if they are on their trusted status list.
Financing (10 points)
Students must show that they can finance their studies in the UK. The funding here includes both tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the course.
For the cost of living, you must show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for at least 9 months. The number is calculated on the basis of around £ 1000 per month.
Bank statements from your sponsor are required as proof.
Other requirements and evidence
- Your passport details
- A recent passport photo
- Proof of command of the English language. However, students from English-speaking countries are not required to provide evidence of this, especially if they hold a degree that is equivalent to the UK degree.
- Academic qualifications
- Evidence of vaccinations against certain diseases. It depends on your country of origin.
How to apply for UK Tier 4 Student Visa
All level 4 student visa applications are made online.
Before a candidate can apply for the Tier 4 visa, they must ensure that they:
- a university place was offered
- can speak, read, write and understand English
- has enough money to support himself and pay for your course – the amount depends on your circumstances
- come from a country that is not part of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland
- meet the other admission requirements
What are the types of Student Visa for university students?
Students wishing to study in the UK must apply for a level 4 student visa. This visa is for full-time students at the university who should generally be over 16 years of age.
Students aged 16 or 17 must obtain a letter from their parent or guardian giving them full permission to travel independently.
Student Visa Fees
Short-term study visa
- 6 months – 89 €
- 11 months – £ 178
Long term study visa
The cost of the Tier 4 student visa for long-term students is £328 with an additional £150 for healthcare costs per year. This enables access to health care through the National Health Service (NHS).
For students already in the UK, the cost of the visa is £439 by mail or £839 if you prefer to take it to their office in person. This fee does not include the Immigration Health Service Charge.
What do I expect when I enter the UK as an international student
Immigration officers would need to stamp your passport at the airport or any port of entry into the UK. The stamp would indicate the length of your stay in the UK.
You can stay for another four months after the specified duration. Citizens from some countries would have to register with the UK police within seven days of arrival.
Other documents you may need to present to immigration authorities at the port of entry include:
- Vaccination card or vaccination certificate
- Letter of admission from your university
- Proof of funding
- Proof of accommodation
Work and study on the Tier 4 student visa
Valid UK student visa holders attending publicly funded universities can work up to 20 hours per week during school hours.
However, they can work full-time during the school holidays during the Christmas and Easter holidays.