Student visa - United Kingdom

What it is

For people aged 16 or over coming to study at a UK licensed student sponsor (university or college). Replaced the Tier 4 (General) student visa.

Key facts

Category: Study
Duration: Up to 5 years for degree-level study; up to 2 years below degree-level
Processing time: 3–8 weeks
Maximum validity: 5 years
Extendable: Yes
Dependants: Conditional
Work allowance: 20 hours per week
Age: 16 or over
English requirement: B2 degree level or above; B1 below degree level
How to apply: Online
Health insurance: Not required

Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.

Fees

Application fee (Apply from outside the UK): GBP 558
Health surcharge: GBP 776 per year
Proof of funds (living costs up to 9 months, held 28 days): GBP 1,171 per month
Application fee (Extend or switch from inside the UK): GBP 558
Proof of funds (living costs up to 9 months, held 28 days): GBP 1,529 per month

Key requirements

Confirmed offer of a place from a UK licensed student sponsor
Sufficient funds for course fees and living costs
Meet the English language requirement
Parental consent if aged 16 or 17
Genuine intention to study

Working on this visa

Work may be allowed depending on what you're studying and whether it's term-time; no numeric cap stated on the official page. Cannot be self-employed or work as a professional sportsperson.

Bringing family

Your partner and children ('dependants') may be able to apply to come to the UK or stay longer in the UK. You must be one of the following: a government-sponsored student starting a course that lasts longer than 6 months / a full-time…

After this visa

yes - can switch to a Graduate visa (2 years if applied on or before 31 December 2026, 18 months from 1 January 2027, 3 years for PhD/doctorate)

Money you must show

Outside London; London £1,529/mo; plus 1st-year course fees

Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 19 July 2026.