UK Student Visa (Appendix Student)
Official guidelines for international students securing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) and studying at UK universities.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
The UK Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) is the primary immigration route for international students enrolling in undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programmes at licensed UK universities and colleges under Appendix Student.
Core Eligibility Requirements
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Issued by a licensed Student Sponsor following an unconditional offer.
- Financial Requirement: You must prove you have funds to pay course tuition for the first year, plus living costs: £1,483 per month (up to 9 months, £13,347) for London institutions, or £1,136 per month (£10,224) outside London, held for 28 consecutive days.
- Academic Progression: If extending in the UK, your new course must be at a higher academic level (or complementary to previous study).
- English Proficiency: Minimum CEFR level B2 for degree-level study, assessed by the university or an approved SELT test.
Working Rights for Students
Students at higher education institutions are legally permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term-time and full-time during official vacation periods. Breaching term-time hours is a severe immigration violation that triggers visa cancellation.
Key Requirements & Highlights
- Must hold valid CAS from a Home Office licensed Student Sponsor.
- Maintenance funds: £13,347 (London) or £10,224 (outside London) held for 28 days.
- Term-time working limit: Strictly 20 hours per week for degree-level courses.
- Direct progression to the 2-year Graduate Visa upon course completion.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- University Offer & CASReceive unconditional offer, pay deposit, and receive digital CAS number from university.
- Bank Statements AuditEnsure maintenance and tuition balance remains untouched in account for 28 consecutive days ending within 31 days of application.
- Online FilingApply online on GOV.UK up to 6 months before course start date (if abroad) or 3 months before (if in UK).
- Biometrics & ApprovalEnrol biometrics and receive digital eVisa / 90-day travel vignette.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can student dependents accompany me to the UK?
Under rules implemented in January 2024, international students on taught Master's courses can no longer bring family dependents. Only students on postgraduate research courses (PhD or research Master's) or government-sponsored students can bring partners and children.
Can I do freelance or self-employed work as a student?
No. Student visa holders are strictly prohibited from engaging in business activity, self-employment, freelance gig work, or working as a professional sportsperson or entertainer.
Need Guidance on Your Application?
Priyanshu Decodes provides clear route explanations, document planning, and consultation calls. For regulated legal advice or formal Home Office representation, always consult an IAA-registered adviser or an immigration solicitor.