How to ensure a successful student visa application?
The Student Visa (previously the Tier 4 Visa) is the UK immigration route for international students wishing to continue their studies in the UK. It not only allows study at an approved educational institution, but also part-time work and potentially further migration to post-study work or even permanent residence in the future. Below is how to make the most of your chances for a successful student visa application.
- Be Sponsored by an Authorized Institution
Achievement in your application begins with the acquisition of sponsorship from a recognized UK study institution. It should be accredited and authorized by the UK government. It must be licensed by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to issue the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). This confirmation document is important because it confirms your acceptance into a particular program.
Research and choose the right institution or course most suited to your academic and career goals well ahead of time.
- Study a Qualifying Course
For you to qualify for a student visa, you must be on an approved institution studying a full-time course. The qualifying courses are usually further education courses and professional courses level 3 and above on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).
Ensure your chosen course is eligible and prepare documents with your course details.
- Demonstrate Financial Means
You will need to show that you can support yourself in the UK. This is where you need to show that you can afford tuition fees and living expenses during your period of study.
Staple clear bank statements, funding letters, or proof of scholarship indicating your financial position for a successful application.
- Show English Language Competence
The required level of English language proficiency is to be demonstrated by an official English language test or possession of a degree-level qualification taught in English. The minimum accepted CEFR level is generally B1, but a higher level may be necessary for certain programs.
Sit the necessary tests early and have all the certificates ready to hand so that submission can avoid any last-minute issues.
- Be Over the Age Criteria
You will typically need to be over 16 years old to be eligible for a Student Visa. If you are between 16 and 17 years old, you might have to provide additional proof of parental consent or even apply for a Child Student Visa if you wish to study at school.
Verify the age-specific requirements of the institution you wish to apply to so that you can be sure you qualify with their requirements.
- Comply with Tuberculosis Testing Requirements
Residents of some countries are required to produce a certificate of tuberculosis (TB) testing if they wish to remain in the UK for six months or beyond. This policy is intended to prevent the spread of TB in the UK.
Have your country of origin listed for TB testing on the UK government site long before your application date to avoid delay.
- Pay the Healthcare Surcharge
You will have to add a healthcare surcharge to your visa application. The surcharge provides access to the National Health Service (NHS) while you are in the UK and will vary based on your length of stay.
Put this expense aside during your preparation to demonstrate that you can fund yourself while you are there.
- Offer a Thorough and Accurate Application
Ensure that you give a complete application since incomplete applications can lead to delay or rejection. Applications done within the UK take 8 weeks to process, and those done outside the UK take about 3 weeks to process, although there are also priority services available to utilize.
Have all documents ready in advance and check completeness before submitting.
We are professionals in assisting students in applying for student visas at Lumine Solicitors. We can help you evaluate your suitability, prepare the documents that you need to complete, and monitor your application progress for you.
For expert advice on your student visa needs or any other immigration concern, please feel free to get in touch with us at Lumine Solicitors on 020 3950 2246 or register on our website to start your process today.
