Studying in the UK: How to Get into a University and Obtain a Student Visa

The high standard of education and the prestige of UK universities make the United Kingdom one of the most attractive destinations for students worldwide. However, being accepted into a university is not enough to earn that coveted degree — you also need to obtain a student visa.

Many international applicants face challenges at this stage. In this guide, we will take a detailed look at how to prepare for admission, what requirements are set by universities and government authorities, and what support is available along the way.

Contents:

• Choosing a university and receiving a CAS
• Student visa: key requirements and application steps
• University support during the visa process

Choosing a University and Receiving a CAS

1. Choosing a university and a programme

The first step is to decide on your field of study and select your universities. The UK education system offers a wide range of programmes — from humanities and technology to business and medical fields. A full list of programmes is available on the UCAS platform — the main service for applying to UK universities. Through UCAS, you can apply to up to five universities at once.

2. Academic and language requirements

Each university sets its own entry requirements. These typically include:

• Academic performance (school leaving certificate, A-levels, IB, or equivalent);
• Proof of English language proficiency — most commonly IELTS Academic or IELTS UKVI; in some cases, TOEFL or equivalent certificates are accepted.

Note: Most universities accept IELTS Academic, TOEFL, PTE, and other international English tests. However, in certain cases — especially for foundation programmes or when specifically required by the university — you may need to take the IELTS for UKVI Academic, which is approved by the UK Home Office.

The minimum IELTS score is usually 6.0–6.5, but more competitive programmes may require a higher score.

3. Preparation programmes

If your high school diploma does not meet UK standards or your English level is not sufficient, the university may offer:

• Foundation Year — academic preparation before starting an undergraduate degree;
• Pre-sessional English courses — intensive English language courses prior to the main programme.

Successfully completing these programmes often guarantees progression to the degree course.

4. Receiving a CAS — a key document for your visa

Once you have been officially accepted, the university will issue a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) — an electronic document with a unique number confirming your place on the course. A CAS is required when applying for a student visa.

Important: Universities issue CAS only after all offer conditions have been met — including tuition deposit payment and proof of English language proficiency.

Student Visa: Key Requirements and Application Stages

1. Who can apply for a student visa?

You can apply for a Student visa (formerly Tier 4) if:

• You are 16 years old or over;
• You have received a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from a licensed student sponsor;
• You have enough funds to cover your tuition fees and living costs;
• You meet the required level of English language proficiency;
• If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must have parental or guardian consent.

2. Required documents

When applying for a Student visa, you will need to provide:

• A valid passport or travel document;
• Your CAS from the university or college;
• Proof of financial means;
• An approved English language certificate;
• Tuberculosis test results (if required for your country);
• Additional documents depending on your circumstances (e.g. parental consent for minors).

3. Financial requirements

As of 2 January 2025, financial requirements are:

• £1,483 per month for studying in London;
• £1,136 per month for studying outside London.

These amounts must cover at least 9 months of your studies. The required funds must be held in your bank account for a continuous 28-day period, and the end of that period must be no more than 31 days before the visa application date.

4. Visa fees and healthcare surcharge

• Visa application fee: £524 if applying from outside the UK.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): depends on the length of your visa. For example, for a 3-year course, the charge is approximately £1,035 per year.

5. Application timeline

• You can apply no earlier than 6 months before your course starts.
• Decisions are typically made within 3 weeks if you apply from outside the UK.

6. Visa application process

1. Receive a CAS from your university or college.
2. Gather all required documents.
3. Submit your visa application online.
4. Pay the visa fee and IHS surcharge.
5. Attend a biometric appointment (fingerprints and a photo).
6. Wait for a decision on your application.

University Support During the Visa Process

1. One-on-one guidance and visa advice

Most UK universities offer dedicated visa support services for international students. For example:

• University of St Andrews provides visa guidance through its International Student Support team.
• University of Cambridge offers immigration advice via its International Student Office.
• University of Bristol has a Visa and Immigration Support team available to assist students.

These services help students understand UKVI requirements, prepare documentation, and complete their visa application.

2. Application preparation and document review

Universities often provide:

• Checklists of required visa documents;
• Guidance on financial requirements and English language evidence;
• Support with completing the online application and paying the associated fees.

Some private educational providers, such as Kaplan International Pathways, which partner with UK universities, also offer visa support to students enrolled in foundation or pre-sessional programmes.

3. Post-visa support

After receiving your visa, universities continue to assist students by:

• Hosting webinars and information sessions for new international students;
• Providing information about accommodation, healthcare, and daily life in the UK;
• Giving access to student support services, including academic help and wellbeing counselling.

Need detailed guidance?

Experts at ED-EX.com will assist you at every stage of the application process — from choosing a country to preparing documents.

You can submit a request in any convenient way:

— directly in your personal account

— on the page of your chosen university

— or by emailing us at support@ed-ex.com