Student Visa Advice
Navigate complex UKVI regulations with our expert compliance team. We've maintained a 99% success rate for over a decade.
Your Pathway to a
Seamless Entry
Securing a student visa is the most critical step in your international education journey. A single error in documentation or a misunderstanding of current policies can lead to a refusal. Our mission is to eliminate that risk.
CAS Support
Full assistance in obtaining your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your chosen university.
Document Audit
Rigorous review of financial evidence, academic transcripts, and tuberculosis (TB) certificates to meet UKVI standards.
Interview Prep
Mock credibility interviews with senior consultants to build confidence and ensure compliance.
How to Apply for a UK Student Route Visa — Step by Step
The UK Student Route visa (formerly Tier 4) requires careful preparation. Here is the process LSOE guides you through from offer letter to arrival.
Receive Your CAS Number
Your university issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number once you have a firm offer and meet all entry conditions. LSOE liaises directly with admissions teams to ensure your CAS is issued correctly and on time.
Gather Your Documents
You will need: valid passport, CAS number, proof of English language (IELTS 5.5–6.5 or equivalent), academic transcripts, proof of funds (28-day bank statement showing at least £1,334/month for London, £1,023/month outside London), and a TB test certificate if required by your country.
Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
International students pay £776 per year of study upfront as part of the visa application. For a standard 3-year degree, this is £2,328. LSOE provides a full breakdown and helps you budget for this cost.
Submit Your Online Application
Apply via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal. You must apply no earlier than 6 months before your course start date. LSOE reviews your application form before submission to eliminate errors.
Book Your Biometric Appointment
After submitting online, book a biometric enrolment appointment at a UKVI visa application centre (VAC) in your country. Bring all original documents. Appointments typically take 30–60 minutes.
Receive Your Decision
Standard processing takes approximately 3 weeks from outside the UK. Priority service (available in many countries) reduces this to 5 working days. LSOE monitors your application and advises on any additional evidence requests.
UK Student Visa Costs & Key Facts (2025–2026)
| Item | Cost / Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee | £490 (applying from outside the UK) |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £776 per year of study |
| IHS for a 3-year degree (total) | £2,328 |
| Proof of funds — London | £1,334/month × months remaining (up to 9) |
| Proof of funds — outside London | £1,023/month × months remaining (up to 9) |
| Standard processing time | Approximately 3 weeks from outside UK |
| Priority processing time | 5 working days (most countries) |
| Earliest you can apply | 6 months before course start date |
| Work allowance (term time) | Up to 20 hours per week |
| Work allowance (holidays) | Full time |
| Graduate Route (post-study work) | 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) |
Fees correct as of 2025–2026. Always verify with the official UKVI website before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions — UK Student Visa
Common questions from students applying for a UK Student Route visa.
What is the UK Student Route visa?
The Student Route visa (formerly Tier 4 General) is the main visa for international students aged 16 or over who want to study at a higher education provider in the UK. You must have a confirmed place at a Student Sponsor (your university), a valid CAS number, and proof of English language ability and financial funds.
How much money do I need in my bank account for a UK student visa?
You must show funds for your tuition fees (first year, if not already paid) plus living costs. For London-based universities: £1,334 per month for up to 9 months. Outside London: £1,023 per month for up to 9 months. Funds must have been in your account continuously for 28 days before you apply.
How long does a UK student visa take to process?
Standard processing from outside the UK takes approximately 3 weeks. Priority processing (available in most countries) takes 5 working days. Super priority is available in some countries for next-day decisions. LSOE recommends applying at least 6–8 weeks before your course start date.
What is a CAS number and how do I get one?
A CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is a unique 14-character reference number issued by your UK university once you have met all offer conditions. Your university registers it with the UKVI. LSOE works directly with university admissions teams to ensure your CAS is issued accurately and on time.
Can my family come with me on a student visa?
Dependants (partner/children) can join you if you are studying at a higher education provider at degree level or above and your course is longer than 6 months. Dependants need their own visa application and must meet financial requirements. LSOE provides full dependant visa support.
What happens if my UK student visa is refused?
Common refusal reasons include insufficient funds, incorrect documents, or a credibility concern. You have the right to appeal or reapply with stronger evidence. LSOE conducts a full document audit before submission to minimise refusal risk. Our 99% success rate reflects this rigorous approach.
What is the Graduate Route visa (post-study work)?
The Graduate Route allows you to stay in the UK for 2 years after completing your degree (3 years for PhD graduates) to work, look for work, or start a business. There are no employer restrictions and no salary threshold. You switch from your Student Route visa to Graduate Route after graduation.
Is IELTS mandatory for a UK student visa?
You must demonstrate English language ability, but IELTS is not the only accepted test. UKVI accepts IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, LanguageCert, and others. Some students may qualify for an English language waiver if they have studied in English for 2+ years. LSOE advises on the best test for your situation.
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