Study visas

Important information on visas required for study in the UK

There are two main immigration permission routes to study in the UK. They are the new Student route visa and the Visitor visa route for short-term study (less than six months).

Which immigration route you require depends on a number of factors, including the length of your studies. The different immigration routes have different conditions attached. It is very important that you obtain the right permission for your study in the UK.

The Student route visa came in on 5 October 2020 replacing the Tier 4 visa route. If you are coming to study a course of six months or more you will need to apply for the Student route visa. In this section, you will find the information you will need to apply for this visa.

The new Visitor route, which came into effect on 1 December 2020, is the most appropriate route for those coming to the UK to study for a course of six months or less, for example, our Study Abroad students.

The Visitor route will replace the Short-term study visa route in the majority of cases. Short-term study visas from 1 December 2020 will only be applicable to students coming to study an English language programme for a duration of 6-11 months. 

Please note
If you are a student from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nigeria, you will be required to take part in a Pre-CAS interview before you receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.

Find out more information about Pre-CAS interviews.

Faq Items

eVisa information

Applying for a Student visa inside of the UK

Applying for a Student visa outside of the UK

Guide to Completing the Student Visa application form from inside the UK

Guide to completing the Student Visa application form outside of the UK

Police Registration suspended

Visitor visa guide for courses of six months or less

Visit Visas for Coming to the UK for a visit

Changes to Your Course of Study and Visa Implications

Information for international students travelling with dependents