Study in the UK
Official guidelines on UK Student visas, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), maintenance funds, and student working rights.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
The UK is one of the world's premier higher education destinations. To study in the UK at degree level or above, international students must secure an offer from a licensed student sponsor and obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) before applying for a Student visa under Appendix Student.
Understanding visa conditions—including strict limits on term-time work hours, attendance monitoring, and switching into graduate work routes—is critical for protecting your lawful status throughout your studies.
Study Visa Categories
Student Visa
For degree courses, master's and doctoral programmes.
Read guide →Child Student Visa
For children aged 4 to 17 studying at independent schools.
Read guide →Parent of a Child Student
For parents accompanying a child under 12 at an independent school.
Read guide →Short-term Study Visa
For English language courses lasting between 6 and 11 months.
Read guide →Key Requirements & Highlights
- Valid CAS required from a Home Office licensed Student Sponsor.
- Maintenance funds: £1,483/month (in London) or £1,136/month (outside London) for up to 9 months, held for 28 days.
- Work rights: Up to 20 hours per week during term time for degree courses; full-time during official vacations.
- Dependants: Restricted to students on research postgraduate programmes (PhD, research master's) or government-sponsored courses.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- Receive Offer & CASAccept university unconditional offer; receive your CAS 6 months prior to course start.
- Hold Funds 28 DaysEnsure living costs and remaining tuition are held in a bank account for 28 consecutive days.
- Apply OnlineSubmit application on GOV.UK, pay visa fee (£490) and IHS (£776/year).
- Arrival & BRP / eVisaTravel to the UK up to 1 month before your course start date and set up your online eVisa account.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours can I work on a Student visa?
Degree-level students can work a maximum of 20 hours per week during official term time. During official university holidays, full-time work is permitted. Exceeding 20 hours during term time is a criminal breach of visa conditions.
Can I bring dependants on a UK Student visa?
Under rules implemented in January 2024, international students can only bring dependants (partner and children) if enrolled on a postgraduate research programme (such as a PhD or research master's) or on a course with an official government scholarship.
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.