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Switch from Graduate Route to Student Visa UK 2026

International students looking for information on switching from graduate visa to student visa

If you are currently on a Graduate Route visa and want to study another course in the UK, you may be asking:

  • Can I switch from the Graduate Route to a Student Visa inside the UK?
  • Can I get another Graduate visa later?
  • Do I need to show proof of funds?
  • What happens if I have dependants?

This guide explains the rules clearly for 2026.

Can I Switch from a Graduate Route to a Student Visa Inside the UK?

Yes. If you are in the UK on a valid Graduate Route visa, you can switch to a Student Visa without leaving the UK.

To switch, you must:

  • Be in the UK
  • Have an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor
  • Have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
  • Apply before your current visa expires

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before your course starts.

Your new course must begin within 28 days of your current visa expiring.

You can remain in the UK while waiting for a decision, as long as you applied before your visa expired.

You cannot switch to a Student Visa if you are on a visit visa, short-term student visa, Parent of a Child Student visa, seasonal worker visa, domestic worker visa, or leave outside the immigration rules.

Can I Apply for a Second Graduate Route Visa?

No.

The Graduate Route can only be granted once. If you have already had a Graduate Route visa, you cannot apply for another one in the future.

Official Home Office caseworker guidance states that if someone has previously been granted permission under the Graduate Route, any new Graduate Route application must be rejected as invalid.

This means:

Graduate Route → Student Visa → Graduate Route again is not allowed.

If you decide to study another course, you should plan carefully because you will not be able to rely on the Graduate Route again.

Do You Need to Show Proof of Funds?

This depends on how long you have already been in the UK.

If You Have Been in the UK for 12 Months or More

If you have lived in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months before applying, you normally do not need to provide financial evidence.

If You Have Been in the UK for Less Than 12 Months

You must show enough money to cover:

  • Your course fees for one academic year, as shown on your CAS
  • Your living costs

Living cost requirement:

  • £1,529 per month for up to 9 months if studying in London
  • £1,171 per month for up to 9 months if studying outside London

If proof of funds is required, the money must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, and the 28 day period must end within 31 days before your visa application.

What If I Have Dependants?

If you have a partner or children in the UK with you, the rules are now stricter.

From January 2024 onwards, students can only bring dependants if they are studying:

  • A PhD or other doctoral qualification (RQF level 8), or
  • A research-based higher degree

This means that if you switch from a Graduate Route visa to a standard taught Master's or undergraduate course, your partner or children will not be eligible to apply as your dependants under your new Student Visa.

Do Dependants Need to Apply Again?

Yes. Your partner and children must apply separately to extend or switch their visa. They can apply:

  • At the same time as you, or
  • Before their current visa expires

Do You Need to Show Extra Money for Dependants?

If financial evidence is required, you must show additional maintenance funds for each dependant.

Required amounts:

  • £845 per month for up to 9 months if studying in London
  • £680 per month for up to 9 months if studying outside London

If your dependant has already been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months, they normally do not need to provide proof of funds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while my Student Visa application is being processed?
If you applied before your Graduate visa expired, your previous work conditions normally continue until a decision is made. However, once your Student Visa is granted, your working hours will follow Student Visa rules.
How long does it take to switch from the a Graduate Route to Student Visa?
Standard processing time inside the UK is usually around 8 weeks, though priority services may be available.
Can I travel outside the UK while my application is pending?
No. If you leave the UK while your application is being processed, your application will be withdrawn.
When should I apply to switch from Graduate Route to Student Visa?
You must apply for your Student Visa before your Graduate Route visa expires. If you apply after your visa has expired, your application may be refused and it could affect your immigration record. In addition, your new course must begin within 28 days of your current visa expiring. If your course start date is later than 28 days after your visa expiry, you may not be eligible to switch from inside the UK. Always check your visa expiry date and course start date carefully before submitting your application.

If you are unsure whether you are eligible to switch from a Graduate Route visa to a Student Visa, speak to an experienced admissions adviser before making any decision. Getting the timing or documentation wrong can affect your immigration status.

If you would like personalised guidance on your next course and visa options, contact our team, and we will help you plan your next step carefully and correctly.

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