Types of UK Student Visa 2024 – Is your dream to study in the UK? If so, then you’ll need to apply for a student visa. As there are several types of student visas available, and which one is right for you will depend on your individual circumstances. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of UK student visas and what they entail. So, if you’re considering studying in the UK, read on.
What are the Types of UK Student visas?
The student visa falls under Tier 4. There are 3 types of UK student Visas for which you can apply based on the eligibility criteria.
The Tier 4 (General) Student Visa
The Tier 4 student visa is the best option for students who are looking to relocate and study in the UK. This visa can allow its holders to attend universities, colleges and language schools.
During their studies, holders of this visa can work part-time both on- and off-campus, depending on their course of study and their plan of action upon graduation. Moreover, holders may be able to extend their visas after the commencement of their studies, allowing them more time to pursue their academic goals.
Tier 4 (General) is an excellent choice for those wanting to take advantage of all that UK education has to offer – it’s a surefire way to kickstart an exciting learning experience.
Who can apply for a Tier 4(General) Student Visa?
The Tier 4 (General) Student visa is available to those over the age of 16 years and who are looking to study a course at least level 6 on the Ofqual register.
Additionally, prospective students must show evidence of their ability to support themselves financially throughout their studies and proof to support their claim that they have sufficient funds for tuition fees, accommodation, and other living expenses.
How to apply for a Tier 4(General) Student Visa?
Here you have provided evidence of your qualifications, including proof of enrolment at an approved educational institution. You’ll also need to provide details about the course you plan to study and demonstrate that you have enough funds available to support yourself throughout the duration of your studies.
Finally, it’s important to note that you must have a valid biometric residence permit in order to be in UK for more than 6 months.
What is the validity of a Tier 4(General) Student Visa?
The length of time for which a Tier 4 (General) Student visa is valid depends on the duration of your course.
For courses lasting less than 6 months, the visa will last until the completion of your studies. For those studying longer courses, the visa typically lasts for up to 5 years or until your course finishes, whichever comes first.
The Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa
The Tier 4 (Child) student visa is especially for children between the age group of 4 and 17 who wish to pursue their educational goals in the U.K.
If successful, they would be able to live with a family member or approved guardian, attend school in the U.K., and even be eligible to take part in certain activities outside of their studies like music, dance, sports and arts.
To qualify for this type of U.K. student visa, one must submit an application that documents educational credentials and financial capability to cover the intended stay in Britain.
The process also requires a mandatory criminal record check from the child’s home nation or other countries where he or she may have lived over a significant period of time before applying. If successful, students can make enormous educational accomplishments within the United Kingdom while experiencing an unforgettable cultural immersion.
Who can apply for a Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa?
The Tier 4 (Child) Student visa is available for children aged between 4 and 17 who are looking to undertake a course of study in the UK.
To be eligible, students must have an offer from an approved school or college and show evidence that they have funds to cover their stay in the UK. In addition, they must demonstrate that they have a suitable guardian who will take care of them during their stay in the UK.
How to apply for a Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa?
For this Visa, you need to provide evidence of your qualifications, including proof of enrolment at an approved educational institution.
You’ll also need to provide details about the course you plan to study, demonstrate that you have enough funds available to support yourself throughout the duration of your studies and evidence that you have a suitable guardian who will take care of you during your stay in the UK.
What is the validity of a Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa?
The length of time for which a Tier 4 (Child) Student visa is valid depends on the duration of your course. For courses lasting less than 6 months, the visa will last until the completion of your studies.
For those studying longer courses, the visa typically lasts for up to 5 years or until your course finishes, whichever comes first. Additionally, students may be eligible to apply for an extension if the course is extended beyond 5 years.
The Short-term Study Visa
The Short-term study visa is a great choice for those who want to undertake a course of study for up to six months. This type of visa allows foreign students the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and skills without making a long-term commitment.
Not only can it enrich one’s educational experience, but students also have the chance to explore a new country, learn about different cultures, and make lasting memories.
Students should bear in mind that the length of stay granted by this visa is limited, so they should enjoy their time while they are there and make sure they take advantage of any opportunities available.
Who can apply for Short-Term Study Visa?
Anyone seeking to apply for a job, college, or program should ensure that they are aware of the eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
Each entity will have its own criteria and there may be different requirements for different positions, programs, or courses. You must take some time to research the appropriate information to make sure that you are able to meet their specific demands.
To be successful with your application, it is essential that you follow the process outlined, provide all relevant documentation and demonstrate how your skills, knowledge and qualifications make you a suitable candidate.
How to apply for Short Term Student Visa?
To apply for the Short-term Study visa, applicants will need to fill out an online application form and provide proof of acceptance letter from their program of study.
Additionally, applicants must demonstrate that they have enough funds to cover tuition fees, other living expenses and other costs associated with their studies. They must also submit a valid passport or travel document and provide evidence that in future, you have plan to return to their home country once the visa expires.
Finally, applicants may also be required to submit additional supporting documents such as medical certificates or criminal record checks.
The application process can seem daunting; however, with some prior preparation and knowledge, it can be a relatively straightforward procedure.
What is the validity of Short-Term Study Visa?
Applying for something can be a stressful and time-consuming process, but the outcome can be very rewarding. Before you jump into the application process, it is important to make sure that you understand what is required of you.
This could include making sure that all paperwork is filled out properly and included in your submission. Depending on the type of application, this process will last anywhere from a few days to several weeks or even months.
Once the application has been submitted, the applicant must remain patient and wait until they hear back with a decision or a response. Taking extra care during this step will result in a better chance of success when applying for anything!
However, when you plan to apply for a student visa, it can be a daunting task. However, it is essential to remember that there are four different types of visas available.
The Tier 4 (General) student visa is the most common type of visa and allows you to study at an educational institution in the UK for an extended period of time.
The Tier 4 (Child) student visa is similar to the General student visa but is specifically for children in the age group of 4 and 17.
Lastly, the Short-term study visa allows you to study in UK for up to 6 months and is ideal for students who are not looking to stay in the country for an extended period of time.
These are just some of the different types of student visas available; be sure to do your research so that you can apply for the correct one.
Student Visa Application Process for UK
The visa application process involves a number of steps. Here is a simple breakdown of the steps:
- Choose the appropriate visa category: Based on your course, study duration and age, choose the right UK student Visa that most fits your requirements.
- Gather necessary documents: This includes your passport, proof of acceptance from a UK educational institution, financial evidence demonstrating sufficient funds, and a recent photograph.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English: Take up approved tests like IELTS or TOEFL to meet the English language requirement as prescribed by the universities you are applying for
- Adhere to the timeline: Submit your application at least three months before your course starts. Plan accordingly, as processing time can vary depending on the type of student Visa in the UK, and missing deadlines can cause delays in further steps
- Apply online: Visit the official website to apply for the Uk student visa. However, if you are applying to Universities through SecureMyscholarship, our expert team will do it for you
- Pay all necessary fees: This includes the healthcare surcharge for access to the UK’s National Health Service.
- Interview: Based on your location, you might be required to Attend an interview or provide biometric information. Prepare well for this interview.
Detailed information regarding the student Visa application process for the UK can be found here
UK Student Visa Application Fees
| Study Visa Applications Submitted Outside the UK | ||
| Application Category | Application Fee
( in GBP) |
Application Fee
(In INR) 1 INR=105.44GBP |
| General Student | 490 | 51,665 |
| Child Student | 490 | 51,665 |
| Short-term student studying English language (6-11 months) | 200 | 21088 |
Working While Studying
The UK lets its international students work part-time for 20 hours per week during their studies for students who hold tier-4 General student visas.
Know that there are a few restrictions on the type of employment you choose to make money. You cannot engage in self-employment or professional sports.
However, there are additional benefits for international students pursuing their post-graduate studies in the UK. As per the recent updates, the UK no longer allows undergraduate students to bring dependents on dependent visas to the UK, but postgraduate students can bring dependents along with them using tier 4 UK student visa.
Working Post Studies
This visa falls under the tier-1 category of the UK Visa. Once you complete your studies, you can switch your general student Visa to a PSW visa if you wish to work or look for work in the country for the next 2 years if you are an undergraduate and 3 years if you are a postgraduate.
However, if you successfully find a job with a minimum pay of £38,700 per year, you can apply for a skilled worker visa.
Conclusion
A Student Study Visa will allow you to kick-start your studies in the UK. And if you need any specific assistance like being stuck in the cycle of finalising courses or universities. Then you are in the right place, we at SecureMyScholarship have a panel of experienced career counsellors.
We provide end-to-end assistance from choosing the right course to getting your offer letter at your dream university. Why wait? Contact us now!
FAQs About Types of UK Student Visa
How many types of student visas are there for UK?
The United Kingdom offers three different types of student visas.
These include the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa, and the Short-term Study Visa.
Each of these visas has its own unique set of eligibility requirements, so it is important to research your options before applying.
What visa do I need to study in the UK?
The visa type depends on how long you are planning to study in the UK, which depends on the length and type of your studies.
- For longer courses or programs, you will likely need a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa.
- If you are under 17 years old, then you should apply for the Tier 4 (Child) Student Visa.
- The Short-term Study Visa is an option for students looking to study in the UK for up to six months
Is there any interview for UK Student visa?
No, there is no interview required for UK Student Visas. However, you may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional information as part of the application process.
This is usually done in cases where more complex issues arise, and further clarification is needed.
Additionally, if the visa application requires biometric data (fingerprints), then applicants may also be required to attend a visa application centre for an appointment.
What are the new rules for UK Student visas?
The undergraduate students holding the tier 4 general student visa of UK can no longer bring dependents but the postgraduate students can bring dependents
Why are UK student visas denied?
UK student visas can be denied if the applicant fails to meet the criteria set out in the points-based immigration system. This includes
- Not having an approved education provider,
- Insufficient financial means to pay tuition fees and living costs,
- Lack of command of English
- Not providing evidence of health insurance and crime prevention.
- Errors on the application form,
- Incomplete documentation
- Expired documents
can lead to a visa application being denied.
