UK Study Visa for Indian Students: Types, Process, Requirements, Cost, Test Score

The United Kingdom is known for its prestigious universities, world-class education, and unparalleled academic opportunities. You must apply for a UK study visa to pursue your academic goals while studying in the UK. This comprehensive guide discusses the types of UK study visas, the application process, requirements, and fees for Indian students.

Types of UK Study Visas for Indian Students 

There are various types of UK study visas based on age and the type, of course you want to pursue.

Student Visa (previously Tier 4 General Student Visa): The Student Visa is specifically created for individuals 16 years or older who have been accepted into a course at an educational institution in the UK. This visa lets students visit the UK for up to 1 week before their course starts if it lasts 6 months or fewer or up to one month before if it lasts more than six months.

Child Student Visa (previously Tier 4 Child Student Visa): The Child Student Visa caters to students aged 4-15 years who have been offered a place in a course at a UK independent school. This visa enables the student to remain in the UK until the earlier of the end of their course or the age of 18.

Short-term Study Visa: The Short-term Study Visa is ideal for Indian students aged 18 or over who wish to study a short course in the UK. This visa permits holders to enrol in short courses for a maximum of six months and up to 11 months for English language courses.

UK Student Visa Eligibility 

You must fulfill specific requirements to get university admission and be eligible for a UK student visa. These include:

• You must have received a full-time academic course offer from a licensed student sponsor.
• Having enough financial resources to support oneself throughout the course.
• Proficient in English language skills
• Obtaining consent from parents if the student is between 16 and 17 years of age.

UK Study Visa Application Process 

Applying for a UK study visa involves several steps, as outlined below.

Receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a Licensed Sponsor: Before applying for a UK study visa, Indian students must obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK educational institution. The CAS proves that the student has been offered a place in a course at a UK institution. Applying for a visa within six months of receiving the CAS is essential.

Apply Online for the UK Study Visa: Indian students must apply for their UK study visa online through the official UK Visa portal. They can apply up to three months before the start date of their course, and the application usually takes around three weeks (15 working days) to process.

Prepare Necessary Documents: Applicants must gather all required documents, including their passport, visa application form, CAS, proof of funds, English language proficiency test results, and any additional documents specified by the UK Home Office.

Attend a Biometric Appointment: As part of the visa application process, Indian students must book and attend a biometric appointment at a designated visa application center in India. During this appointment, applicants will have their fingerprints scanned and a digital photo taken of their faces.

Receive a Decision on the Visa Application: After submitting the visa application and attending the biometric appointment, applicants will receive a decision from the UK Home Office regarding their visa application. If accepted, you'll receive a visa and can go to the UK to start your education.

UK Study Visa Requirements for Students 

Indian students must meet specific requirements to be eligible for a UK study visa. These requirements include:

• A valid passport
• A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK educational institution. While applying for a UK study visa, remember that your visa letter should be issued at most 6 months before the application date. Students who have received their CAS should apply for their visa within this time frame to ensure a smooth application process.
• Proof of funds: You need proof that you can cover your course fees for the first year of study and living expenses for up to 9 months. The amount required may fluctuate based on your age, whether you're an adult or a child, and whether you intend to attend school in London or somewhere else. You need the funds for at least 28 days before applying.

To cover essential living expenses for 9 months, you must demonstrate a minimum of £12,006 if you intend to reside in London. If you plan to live outside London, you must display £9,207 to meet your basic living expenses.

• English language proficiency test results, such as IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, etc., from an approved provider.
• Possessing a visa letter doesn't guarantee a successful application. The applicant must fulfill all the category requirements and adhere to the immigration rules and other criteria.
• Additional documents are required by the UK Home Office, such as academic transcripts, medical records, or proof of parental consent for applicants under 18.
• ATAS certificate.
• Payslips.
• Original mark sheets/provisional certificates.
• The visa fee payment confirmation receipt.

UK Student Visa Cost 

The cost of a UK study visa for Indian students depends on the type of visa applied for. The fees for the most common types of visas are:

• Student Visa (Tier 4 General): £348
• Child Student Visa (Tier 4 Child): £348
• Short-term Study Visa: £97 (for up to 6 months) or £186 (for up to 11 months)

The fees are paid online using a Visa or MasterCard or through a demand draft submitted at the visa application center or select Standard Chartered Bank branches. These locations also accept cash payments.

English Language Proficiency Requirements 

Students applying for a UK study visa must demonstrate their proficiency in the English language by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider, such as IELTS, LanguageCert, Pearson, or PSI Services (UK) Ltd.

Generally, UK universities require a minimum IELTS band score of 6, but pathway and foundation courses may accept scores as low as 5.5. Some institutions may also offer IELTS waivers based on a student's English scores in their 12th standard.

Biometric Residence Permit from UKVI Office 

In addition to the study visa, Indian students must obtain a biometric residence permit (BRP) from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) office. This permit requires applicants to make an appointment with the UKVI to have their fingerprints scanned and a digital photo taken of their face.

How to Apply for UK Student Visa? 

To get a student visa in the UK, there are a few steps that study-abroad aspirants need to follow. The application process takes approximately three weeks after submitting a complete application.

Step 1: Get a College Acceptance letter: The first step is determining if you qualify for a student visa. To study in the UK, you need to have an approved admission at the university or college of your choice. Students must show they have the resources to pay their tuition and living expenses.

Step 2: Gather all required documents.

Step 3: Apply online: Register and create an account on the official UK Visa website and complete the online application form. After completing the form, you must print and sign it and use the online appointment calendar to book an appointment at the visa application centre. Students will receive an email with their application number after submitting the form.

Step 4: Pay the application fee: You can pay through Standard Chartered Bank, a nationalized or foreign bank demand draft, at the visa application centre, or online using a Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card.

Step 5: Visit the application centre: Visit the visa application centre on the scheduled date to submit your application, facial photograph, and fingerprints. 

Students have the option to withdraw their applications by contacting UKVI.

Tips for a Successful UK Study Visa Application 

• As early as you can, ideally, three months before the commencement of your study, apply for the visa.
• Ensure that your chosen educational institution is a licensed sponsor and holds a valid Tier 4 sponsor license.
• Check the specific requirements for your visa type and gather all necessary documents before applying.
• Attend your biometric appointment and complete the visa application process diligently.