Documents Required for a UK University & Student Visa Application

How this checklist is organised

This checklist is designed as a step-by-step reference that clearly shows which documents are required at each stage of your UK study journey. It is organised to help you quickly identify what applies to your situation, without needing to cross-check multiple sources.

The document is divided into two clear sections:

1. Documents required for UK university applications

2. Documents required for UK student visa applications

Each section is further broken down by level of study (Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Research), making it easy to identify what applies to your course.

Please note:
Some documents are course-specific or conditional (for example, portfolios or ATAS certificates). Always refer to your university offer letter and CAS for exact requirements.

Use this checklist as a preparation guide only. It does not replace official university or UKVI instructions.

Documents Required for a UK University Application

Supporting Documents Checklist	Undergraduate (UG)	Postgraduate (PG)	Research (MRes / PhD)
Valid passport	✓	✓	✓
Academic transcripts	✓	✓	✓
Final degree/diploma certificate	✓	✓	✓
ATAS certificate (if applicable)		✓	✓
Curriculum Vitae (CV)		✓	✓
Academic or professional reference(s)	✓	✓	✓
Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose (tailored to course & university)	✓	✓	✓
English language proficiency certificate (IELTS or accepted equivalent)	✓	✓	✓
Research proposal			✓
Portfolio (Only required for art, design, architecture, and practice-based courses)	✓	✓

 

Documents Required for UK Study Visa Application

(Everything submitted for Uni application plus the following)

Supporting Documents Checklist	Undergraduate (UG)	Postgraduate (PG)	Research (MRes / PhD)
CAS letter (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)	✓	✓	✓
Proof of funds If self-funding - bank statements – 28-day rule If Sponsored - Sponsorship letter	✓	✓	✓
Previous UK visa decision letters (if applicable)	✓	✓	✓
TB test certificate (UKVI-approved clinic) (if applicable)	✓	✓	✓

 

This checklist is designed to help you stay organised and prepared, but requirements may vary depending on:

• The university and course you apply for
• Your nationality and funding source
• Your academic background and visa history

Before submitting your application:

• Double-check all documents against your offer letter and CAS
• Prepare certified translations if documents are not in English

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, documents, or next steps, our professional guidance can save you time, stress, and costly mistakes.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a CV for an undergraduate application in the UK?

In most cases, a CV is not required for undergraduate (UG) applications.
However, some universities may ask for a CV if you:

• Have study gaps
• Have relevant work experience
• Are applying for specific professional or creative courses

Always check your university’s course requirements.

 

What is ATAS, and who needs it?

ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) clearance is required for some postgraduate and research courses, mainly in areas such as science, engineering, technology, and certain research-based programmes.

ATAS is not required to receive an offer from a UK university.
However, if your course requires ATAS, it must be approved before the university can issue your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).

 

Your university will clearly confirm whether ATAS is required in your offer letter. Once approved, ATAS is then used as part of your UK Student Visa application.

 

Do all students need to submit an English language test like IELTS?

No.
Many students need to submit an English language test such as IELTS, PTE, or another accepted qualification.
However, you may be exempt if:

• You completed a recognised qualification taught in English
• Your university accepts an alternative English qualification

English requirements vary by university and course.

 

Is a portfolio required for all UK university courses?

No.
A portfolio is only required for creative, design, architecture, and practice-based courses , such as:

• Art & Design
• Architecture
• Fashion
• Media or Fine Arts

Most academic courses (e.g. Business, Computing, Engineering) do not require a portfolio.

 

Do I need a research proposal for postgraduate courses?

A research proposal is not required for taught postgraduate (Master’s) courses.
It is usually required for:

• MRes programmes
• PhD / Doctoral research degrees

Your university will specify this if applicable.

 

What documents are required for a UK student visa?

To apply for a UK Student Visa, you generally need:

• A valid passport
• CAS letter from your university
• Proof of funds or sponsorship letter
• Previous UK visa decision letters (if applicable)
• TB test certificate (if required)

All visa documents must match the information on your CAS.

 

Do my documents need to be translated into English?

Yes.
If any of your documents are not in English, you must provide certified English translations when required by the university or UKVI.

 

Can missing documents delay or affect my application?

Yes.
Missing, incorrect, or inconsistent documents can lead to:

• Delays in processing
• Requests for additional information
• Visa refusals in some cases

Using a checklist and double-checking your documents can help avoid issues.

 

Can I get help checking my documents before applying?

Yes.
Our professional guidance can help you:

• Understand which documents apply to your profile
• Avoid common mistakes
• Prepare your application correctly the first time

 

Contact us for a free initial assessment