UK Student Guide

Introduction Moving to the UK for your higher education is an exciting journey, but the visa application process can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate this easily, we have broken down the entire UK Student Visa (Tier 4) process for 2026 into simple, actionable steps.

📌 Step 1: Get Your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

Before you can apply for a visa, you must have an unconditional offer from a UK university. Once you accept the offer and pay your initial deposit, the university will issue a CAS statement. This is a unique reference number that connects you directly to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system.

  • Tip: Check every detail on your CAS (name, passport number, course details) to ensure there are no spelling mistakes.

📌 Step 2: Prepare Your Financial Documents

One of the main reasons student visas get delayed or refused is incorrect financial proof. You must prove that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees for one academic year plus your living costs.

  • Living Costs Requirement: * Inside London: £1,334 per month (up to 9 months).

    • Outside London: £1,023 per month (up to 9 months).

  • The 28-Day Rule: The total required funds must be held in your bank account for a consecutive 28 days before you submit your online application. The bank statement must not be older than 31 days on the date you apply.

📌 Step 3: Take Your TB (Tuberculosis) Test

If you are applying from Sri Lanka or any other designated country, you must provide a valid TB certificate.

  • This test must be done only at an approved clinic by the Home Office (such as the IOM - International Organization for Migration).

  • The certificate is valid for 6 months.

📌 Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee and IHS (International Health Charge)

When you submit your application online via the official UK government website, you will need to pay two main fees:

  1. Visa Application Fee: Around £490 for applications made outside the UK.

  2. IHS Fee: This allows you to use the UK's National Health Service (NHS) while you are studying. The cost depends on the duration of your visa.

  3. Click here to apply on the official UK government website: (https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply)

📌 Step 5: Book and Attend Your VFS Appointment

After paying online, you will book an appointment at the nearest VFS Global centre to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).

  • You will need to upload your financial documents, passport, CAS, and academic certificates to the VFS portal before your appointment, or pay to have them scanned at the centre.

Final Words: Give yourself at least 3 months before your course starts to begin this process. Stay organized, double-check your bank statements, and you will be on your way to the UK in no time!