FAQs

How much does it cost to study in the United Kingdom?

The cost of studying in the United Kingdom varies depending on the level of study and the university.

• International undergraduate tuition fees typically range from £11,400 to £38,000 per year.
• International postgraduate tuition fees usually range from £9,000 to £30,000 per year.

Source: British Council

Is it possible to study in the United Kingdom without taking the IELTS [or another English] exam?
It depends on which country the student is from. Some countries with English as their first language are exempt. Students who do not have an IELTS or other SELT (Secure English Language Test) will need to prove their language levels, and /or study a pre-sessional English course. To learn more, please contact us.

Is it necessary to have health insurance in the United Kingdom?
Yes, it is. Students need to get health insurance before entering the country and this will cover all their medical expenses during their stay. It is known as an Immigration Health Surcharge and is paid during the visa application process. (Additional travel insurance is also recommended).

What examinations are required to study in the United Kingdom?
To gain admission to a university in the UK, you will need certain qualifications which will differ depending on what level of education you already have, and what you wish to study. You may need to take a range of additional tests, ranging from the GMAT to a SELT test. To learn more, please contact us with your background and requirements and we can advise.

Can I work in the UK with a student visa?
Yes, as an international student in the United Kingdom, you are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holiday periods.

Can I study in the UK with a scholarship?
Yes, it is possible. Universities in the UK offer a wide range of scholarships, grants, and bursaries for international students to cover their tuition fees, and sometimes their accommodation. However, they are in high demand and competition is fierce. The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most well-known for postgraduate studies and covers all tuition, accommodation, and visa fees. Contact us for more information on our scholarship search service which is subject to a fee.

How much maintenance is required to be shown as a bank balance for a UK student visa?

For a UK Student visa, the amount of maintenance (living costs) you must show in your bank balance depends on where you will be studying:

• In London: £1,483 per month (for up to 9 months)
• Outside London: £1,136 per month (for up to 9 months)

Source: UK Government – Student Visa Money Requirements

Is a medical test required for a UK student visa?
Generally, no medical tests are required, however, the UK requires nationals of some specified countries to take a TB test at a UKVI-approved test centre. Information can be found on their website.

How long does it take for a UK student visa to be processed?

The processing time for a UK Student visa depends on where you apply from:

• Applying from outside the UK: You’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.
• Applying from inside the UK: You’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

However, other factors can also affect the duration. If the Home Office requests further information or documents, this may delay the decision.

Is an interview compulsory for a UK student visa?
Before confirming an offer, many universities undertake a credibility interview to ascertain that the student is genuine and sometimes to verify that their English language levels are adequate.

Can you bring your family on a student visa?

Yes — your partner and children (your “dependants”) may be able to apply to come to the UK or to stay longer, if you meet certain conditions. To be eligible, you must be one of the following:

• A government-sponsored student starting a course that lasts more than 6 months, or
• A full-time student on a postgraduate level course that is either:
  • A PhD or other doctorate (RQF level 8), or
  • A research-based higher degree.

Source: UK Government – Student Visa: Family Members

When can you apply for a visa?
If you are applying from outside of the UK, the earliest you can apply for a Student visa is 6 months before you start your course. You’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.

If you are applying from inside the UK, the earliest you can apply is 3 months before your course starts. You must apply before your current visa expires. Your new course must begin within 28 days of your current visa expiring. You’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

When can you travel to the UK?
You can arrive before your course starts. This can be either:

• up to 1 week before, if your course lasts 6 months or less
• up to 1 month before, if your course lasts more than 6 months.

What is a CAS?
CAS stands for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, and this can only be issued by a UKVI-approved education sponsor. UK immigration rules require the University to sponsor your application for a Student Visa (this is not the same as financial sponsorship). A CAS number confirms that the University has made you an Unconditional offer of a place to study with them and that you have accepted this and met all the relevant academic and financial conditions for your offer.