Student Visa (Tier 4)

The Student Visa (Tier 4) allows individuals to come to the UK to study at a recognized educational institution. It is designed for international students who wish to pursue full-time education in the UK. This visa enables students to live in the UK for the duration of their course and is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system.

The Student Visa can lead to settlement in the UK under certain circumstances, particularly if you transition into a work visa after completing your studies.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Student Visa (Tier 4), you must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that:

• You are aged 16 or over.
• You have an offer of a place on a course with a licensed sponsor (a recognized educational institution).
• You can prove you have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course.
• You meet the English language requirement.
• You have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your course provider.
• You meet any specific requirements for your course or institution.

Duration of Stay

You can stay in the UK with a Student Visa for:

• The duration of your course, plus up to 4 months after completing your course, depending on your study level.
• You can stay for up to 5 years for a degree-level course or longer if your course is at a higher academic level.

You may be able to extend your visa if you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a visa up to 6 months before your course start date in the UK. As part of your application, you will need to:

• Prove your identity.
• Provide the required documents, including your CAS and financial evidence.
• You may need an appointment to complete this process, which can add time to your application. You will be informed if an appointment is necessary.

Decision Timeframe

• 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
• 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Study at a recognized educational institution.
• Work part-time (up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full-time during holidays, depending on your course level).
• Bring your partner and children as dependants, if eligible.
• Travel abroad and return to the UK.

What You Cannot Do:

• Apply for most benefits (public funds) or the state pension.
• Work full-time during term time (unless allowed by your visa).
• Change courses or institutions without updating your visa.
• Apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) in the UK directly.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Student Visa application process seamless and stress-free!