Starting a degree or a research project in the UK is one of the most exciting chapters in a student’s life. However, before you can settle into your halls or start your first lecture, there is the significant hurdle of the UK immigration system.
The Student Visa (formerly the Tier 4 General visa) is the primary route for international students. While the process is streamlined, it is also incredibly strict. Even a small administrative error, like showing a bank statement that is one day short of the required period, can lead to a refusal. At Judge Law, we see many bright students face delays simply because they didn’t have a clear roadmap. This guide is designed to give you that clarity and the reassurance you need to apply with confidence.
Section 1: Who Needs a Student Visa?
If you are a non-UK or non-Irish citizen and you want to study a course in the UK that lasts longer than six months, you will likely need a Student Visa. This applies to both EU and non-EU citizens following the changes in immigration rules over the last few years.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Have been offered an unconditional place on a course by a licensed student sponsor.
- Have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course.
- Be able to speak, read, write, and understand English to a specific level.
If you are aged 16 or 17, you will need written consent from your parents or guardians to live independently in the UK.
Section 2: Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
You cannot apply for a visa just because you have a university offer letter. You need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
The CAS is a unique reference number issued to you by your education provider after you have accepted an unconditional offer and, in many cases, paid a tuition deposit. It is a digital document that contains your personal details, course information, and the costs of your tuition fees.
Key CAS Facts:
- Validity: A CAS is valid for six months from the date it is issued.
- Timing: You can only use a CAS to apply for a visa up to six months before your course start date (if applying from outside the UK) or three months before (if applying from inside the UK).
- Single Use: A CAS can only be used once. If your visa is refused and you need to reapply, you will usually need to request a new CAS from your university.
Section 3: Financial Requirements
The “Maintenance Requirement” is the most common area where students face refusals. The Home Office wants to see that you can live in the UK without needing to rely on public funds.
How much money do you need?
You must show you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees for one academic year (as stated on your CAS) plus a set amount for living costs.
| Location of Study | Monthly Requirement | Total for 9 Months (Max) |
|---|---|---|
| London (Inner London boroughs) | £1,529 | £13,761 |
| Outside London | £1,171 | £10,539 |
The 28-Day Rule
This is the most critical rule to follow. The required funds (tuition + maintenance) must be in your bank account for a consecutive 28-day period. The end date of this 28-day period must be within 31 days of the date you submit your visa application online.
If your balance drops even £1 below the required amount for just one day during that month, your application will likely be refused.
Section 4: English Language Requirements
You must prove your knowledge of the English language when you apply. Usually, this means passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider like IELTS.
- Degree Level or Above: You must prove you have a level of English equivalent to CEFR level B2.
- Below Degree Level: You must prove a level equivalent to CEFR level B1.
Many universities are allowed to “self-assess” your English if you are studying at a degree level or higher. If they do this, your CAS will state that they have confirmed your proficiency, and you won’t need to provide a separate test certificate to the Home Office.
Section 5: Working While Studying
A Student Visa is primarily for study, but you are usually allowed to work part-time to gain experience or supplement your income.
- Degree level courses: Usually 20 hours per week during term time.
- Below degree level: 10 hours per week during term time.
- Vacations: You can work full-time during official university holidays.
However, you cannot be self-employed, work as a professional sportsperson, or take a permanent full-time job while on a Student Visa.
Section 6: Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa
Many students wish to remain in the UK to start their careers. In 2026, the rules around switching are specific. You can often switch to a Skilled Worker Visa before you finish your studies, provided you have a job offer from a licensed sponsor and meet the salary thresholds.
This is a popular route for those looking to build a life in the UK and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). At Judge Law, we help many graduates transition from their student status to professional working visas seamlessly.
Section 7: Dependants Rules
The rules regarding bringing family members (dependants) changed significantly in early 2024. Currently, you can only bring dependants to the UK if:
- You are enrolled in a postgraduate research programme (like a PhD).
- You are a government-sponsored student.
If you are on a standard taught Master’s degree or an Undergraduate degree, you generally cannot bring partners or children with you on this specific visa route.
Section 8: Common Refusal Reasons
At our London office and Windsor office, we frequently review refusal letters. The most common reasons include:
- Financial Evidence Issues: Using the wrong type of bank account or failing the 28-day rule.
- Missing Documents: Not providing a TB test (if required for your country) or failing to provide translations for non-English documents.
- Credibility Interview: If the Home Office doubts your intention to study, they may invite you to an interview. Failing to explain your course choice or career goals can lead to a “Genuine Student” refusal.
- ATAS Certificate: Failing to provide an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate for specific science or engineering subjects.
[INFOGRAPHIC PLACEHOLDER: The Student Visa Checklist]
- Valid Passport
- CAS Reference Number
- Financial Evidence (28-day proof)
- English Language Proficiency
- TB Test (if applicable)
- ATAS Certificate (if applicable)
- Parental Consent (if under 18)
Section 9: Extending or Switching
If you want to stay in the UK to continue your studies (for example, moving from a Bachelor’s to a Master’s), you must apply for a visa extension. You can apply from within the UK as long as your new course starts within 28 days of your current visa expiring.
If you have finished your course and aren’t ready to switch to a Skilled Worker route, you might consider the Graduate Visa, which allows you to stay and work for two years (three years for PhD students) without needing a sponsor.
FAQ Section
1. How much money do I need?
You need your remaining first-year tuition fees plus £1,529 per month (London) or £1,171 per month (outside London) for up to nine months.
2. How long does it take?
Standard processing is 3 weeks if you apply from outside the UK and 8 weeks if you apply from within the UK. Priority services are usually available for a faster decision.
3. Can I work full time?
Only during official university vacation periods or after your course has officially ended while your visa is still valid.
4. Can I bring family?
Only if you are on a postgraduate research course or a government-sponsored programme.
5. Can I stay after graduation?
Yes, you can apply for a Graduate Visa to stay for 2 years, or a Skilled Worker Visa if you have a sponsored job offer.
6. What if my course changes?
If you change courses at the same university, you may need to inform the Home Office. If you change universities, you will almost always need to apply for a new visa.
7. What happens if my visa expires?
Overstaying is a serious immigration offence. You must apply for a new visa or leave the UK before your current visa expires.
8. Can I appeal a refusal?
Most Student Visa refusals do not have a right of appeal but do have a right to Administrative Review if you believe the Home Office made a mistake.
Need a Professional Eye?
The UK Student Visa application is more than just a form; it’s the gateway to your future career. Because the financial and document requirements are so precise, many students prefer to have their application reviewed by a professional before hitting “submit.”
At Judge Law, we provide a structured review of your CAS, financial statements, and supporting documents to ensure everything meets the current UKVI standards. Whether you are applying from Slough, Reading, or anywhere else in the world, we are here to help.
Contact us today to ensure your transition to UK student life is as smooth as possible.
