UK Student Visa Checklist
18 essential steps to secure your UK Student Visa. From CAS letter and 70-point system to IHS payment, financial evidence, TB test, and credibility interview preparation.
What Is the UK Student Visa Checklist?
The UK Student Visa (Tier 4 visa) requires applicants to meet a 70-point system — 50 points for a valid CAS letter from a licensed sponsor, 10 points for financial evidence, and 10 points for English language proficiency. This checklist covers every step from course selection and IELTS for UKVI to the credibility interview and BRP collection.
In 2026, key requirements include an IHS payment of £1,035 per year, a visa fee of £490, and 28 days of maintained funds in your bank account. Processing typically takes 3–8 weeks, though priority services are available.
Use this checklist to track your progress and ensure nothing is missed. Each item includes specific details to help you complete your application confidently.
18-Step UK Student Visa Checklist
Choose Your Course & University
Research UK universities and courses that align with your academic background and career goals. Consider factors like ranking, location, tuition fees, and scholarship opportunities before shortlisting.
Take an Approved English Language Test
Register and take a SELT (Secure English Language Test) such as IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic UKVI, or LanguageCert. Your test must meet the CEFR level B2 or higher as specified by your university.
Submit University Application via UCAS or Direct
Apply through UCAS for undergraduate courses or directly through the university portal for postgraduate programs. Ensure you submit all required documents including transcripts, SOP, LORs, and a valid passport.
Receive an Unconditional Offer
Once you receive an unconditional offer letter from your university, you have met all academic conditions. Accept the offer formally through the UCAS portal or university application system.
Pay Your Tuition Deposit
Pay the required tuition deposit (typically £1,000–£4,000) to secure your place. This amount will be adjusted against your total tuition fees. Keep the payment receipt for visa purposes.
Receive Your CAS Letter
Your university will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter after you accept the offer and pay the deposit. The CAS contains a unique CAS number and confirms your course details.
Gather Financial Evidence (28 Days Bank Statement)
Show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees plus living costs (£1,334/month in London or £1,023/month outside London). Funds must be held in your account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Pay the IHS fee of £1,035 per year as part of your visa application. This gives you access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS). You will need to pay for the entire duration of your course.
Complete the Online Visa Application Form
Fill out the UK Student Visa application form online on the UKVI website. Provide accurate personal details, CAS information, and answer all questions truthfully about your study plans.
Pay the Visa Application Fee (£490)
Pay the visa application fee of £490 for Student Visa (Tier 4) applications made from outside the UK. Payment is made online during the application process.
Book Your Biometrics Appointment
Schedule a biometrics appointment at a UKVCAS application support centre. Appointments can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons (June–September), so book early.
Attend Biometrics at UKVCAS Centre
Visit the UKVCAS centre on your scheduled date to provide your biometric information (photograph and fingerprints). Carry your passport and appointment confirmation letter.
Complete Your TB Test (If Applicable)
If you are from a country where tuberculosis is prevalent (including India), you must take a TB screening test at an approved clinic. The test results are valid for 6 months from the date of issue.
Prepare for the Credibility Interview
Prepare for a possible credibility interview where UKVI officers may ask about your study plans, university choice, course content, and your intention to return home after studies. Be honest and confident.
Submit Supporting Documents
Upload all required supporting documents to the UKVI online portal including your CAS letter, financial evidence, English test results, TB certificate, passport, and previous qualification certificates.
Receive Your Visa Decision
Standard processing takes 3–8 weeks. You will receive a decision via email. Priority and super-priority services are available for faster processing at an additional fee.
Collect Your BRP or Activate Your eVisa
After approval, you will either receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or an eVisa depending on the current UKVI system. Follow the instructions provided to collect or activate your immigration status.
Prepare for Departure
Book your flights, arrange accommodation, pack essential documents, and familiarize yourself with UK customs and culture. Ensure you arrive no more than 1 month before your course start date.
UK Student Visa — Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long does a UK Student Visa take to process?
Standard processing takes approximately 3 to 8 weeks from the date of your biometrics appointment. Priority processing (5 working days) and super-priority processing (next working day) are available for an additional fee of £500 and £1,000 respectively. Processing times can vary based on your country of application and the time of year.
Q. What is a CAS letter and why is it important?
A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a digital document issued by your UK university that confirms you have been offered a place on a course. It contains a unique CAS number and details about your course, tuition fees, and personal information. You need a valid CAS to apply for a UK Student Visa, and it accounts for 50 of the required 70 points in the visa system.
Q. How much Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) do I need to pay?
The IHS fee is £1,035 per year for the full duration of your course. For example, if you are studying a 3-year undergraduate degree, you will pay £3,105 upfront. This surcharge grants you access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS), allowing you to use healthcare services at no additional cost during your stay.
Q. What financial evidence do I need to show for a UK Student Visa?
You must show proof of funds covering your first year of tuition fees plus living costs of £1,334 per month in London or £1,023 per month outside London (for up to 9 months). The money must be held in a bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before your application. Acceptable evidence includes bank statements, fixed deposit certificates, or education loan letters.
Q. Can I work while studying on a UK Student Visa?
Yes, international students on a UK Student Visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. However, you cannot work as a professional sportsperson, entertainer, or in a role that fills a permanent full-time vacancy. Make sure to check the conditions printed on your BRP or eVisa.
Related Resources
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