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UK Student Visa Requirements
6 min read
To successfully secure a study visa for the UK, Indian students typically need to meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Acceptance into a recognised educational institution: You must have an unconditional offer and a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK student sponsor.
- Proof of financial support: You must demonstrate you have held the required funds for tuition fees and living expenses for a minimum of 28 consecutive days.
- English language proficiency: Demonstrate your proficiency through a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as IELTS for UKVI or PTE Academic, unless you qualify for an institutional waiver.
- Intention to study: You must satisfy the “Genuine Student” requirement, proving that your primary purpose in the UK is education.
- Immigration history: You must disclose all previous visa applications and have a clean immigration history.
It is important to note that UK government requirements regarding student visas change frequently. As of February 2026, maintenance and health surcharge rates have increased. Speak directly to a member of the StudyIn visa team for the most up-to-date guidance.
UK Visa Types
Student Visa (General)
You can apply for a student visa to study in the UK if you are 16 or over and have been offered a place on a course at a licensed student sponsor (Foundation, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, or PhD level).
Child Student Visa
You can apply for a Child Student visa if you are between 4 and 17 years old and want to study at a licensed independent school in the UK.
Short-term Student Visa
This visa is specifically for students studying English language courses lasting between 6 and 11 months.
Visitor Visa
For courses lasting less than six months at an accredited institution, including short-term research or educational exchanges, a Standard Visitor visa is used.
Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work)
The Graduate visa allows you to stay in the UK to work or look for work after graduation.
- Current Rule: 2 years for Undergraduate/Master’s; 3 years for PhD.
- Important 2027 Update: For non-PhD applications made on or after 1 January 2027, the stay-back period will be reduced to 18 months.
UK Visa Supporting Documents
Indian students generally need to provide the following:
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Your unique reference number provided by your university.
- Proof of Finances: Bank statements or loan letters showing you meet the 28-day rule.
- Passport: Must be valid for your stay and have at least one blank page.
- Academic Qualifications: Original transcripts and certificates as listed on your CAS.
- TB Test Certificate: Mandatory for Indian residents (must be from a UKVI-approved clinic).
In certain circumstances, you may also require:
- ATAS Certificate: Required for specific sensitive STEM subjects at the postgraduate level.
- Parental Consent: If you are under 18 years of age.
UK Student Visa Fees 2026
Application Fees (Outside the UK)
The fee for a Student Visa application from India is £524 (approx. ₹56,500). The same fee applies to each dependent joining you.
Visa Extensions & Switching (Inside the UK)
If you are extending your stay or switching to a Student Visa from within the UK, the fee is £524.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The IHS allows access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The rate for students is £776 per year. This is paid upfront for the total duration of your visa.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
The CAS is a virtual document generated by your university. It is the most important part of your application as it contains your course details, fees, and the university’s “Student Sponsor” license number.
Note: A CAS is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. You cannot apply for your visa more than 6 months before your course start date.
Get Expert Support
StudyIn’s visa consultant is registered with the Home Office OISC* (Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner) and has extensive knowledge of the latest immigration legislation, rules and regulations. Arrange a free counselling today to learn more.
FAQs
When and where can you apply for a student visa in India?
You can apply for a UK student visa up to 6 months before your course start date. The application is submitted online via the official GOV.UK portal. You must then book an appointment at a VFS Global centre (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or Chennai) to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).
What are the eligibility criteria for a 2026 UK student visa?
To qualify, you must have an unconditional offer and a valid CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from a licensed student sponsor. You must also meet the English language requirements (typically B2 level for degrees) and satisfy the 70-point immigration system by proving your identity, intent, and financial stability.
What are the financial requirements for a UK student visa in 2026?
You must show that you have enough money to cover your first year’s tuition fees plus living costs for up to 9 months. As of the 2026 updates, the monthly maintenance requirements are:
- London: £1,529 per month (Total: £13,761)
- Outside London: £1,171 per month (Total: £10,539)
These funds must be held in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before you apply.
How much does the 2026 UK student visa fee cost?
For Indian students applying from outside the UK, the standard visa fee is £524 (approx. ₹56,500). Additionally, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is currently £776 per year for students, providing you with full access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
How long is a student visa valid?
If your degree-level course lasts more than 6 months, your visa is usually granted for the full length of the course plus an additional 4 months of “wrap-up” time to look for work or prepare for graduation. For courses under 6 months, you are typically granted an extra 7 days.
Can I stay in the UK after my studies?
Yes, via the Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work).
- Current Rule: Graduates can stay for 2 years (3 years for PhD).
- Expert Update: For applications submitted on or after 1 January 2027, the stay-back period for Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates will be reduced to 18 months. PhD graduates remain at 3 years.
Can I work on a UK student visa?
Most Indian students on degree-level courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during university vacations. However, you cannot be self-employed, work as a professional sportsperson, or take a permanent full-time job until you switch to a post-study work or skilled worker visa.