The United Kingdom has been one of the most preferred destinations for international students pursuing higher education abroad.
The UK offers many academic programs, world-class universities, and research facilities, making it an ideal student destination. However, international students must obtain a Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK.
This article will discuss what a Tier 4 student visa is, the eligibility criteria, cost, dependent visa, checklist, and processing time.
What is a Tier 4 Student Visa UK?
A Tier 4 student visa is a type of visa that allows international students to study in the UK. The visa is designed for students who want to study a full-time course in a UK educational institution. The Tier 4 student visa is valid for the duration of the course plus a few additional months to allow students to prepare to leave the UK.
Eligibility for a Tier 4 Student Visa UK
To be eligible for a Tier 4 student visa, international students must meet the following requirements:
- Offer of Admission: Students must have an offer of admission from a UK educational institution licensed to sponsor Tier 4 visas.
- The course of Study: Students must have enrolled in a full-time course in a UK educational institution. The course must lead to a recognised qualification, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
- Financial Requirements: Students must have sufficient funds to cover their UK tuition fees and living expenses. The amount of funds required varies depending on the educational institution's location and the course's length. As of 2021, students must have at least £1,334 per month to cover living expenses in the UK and an additional £1,334 per month for each dependent.
|
Talk to an Expert- English Language Proficiency: Students must be able to speak, read, write, and understand English appropriately. They can demonstrate this by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) or providing proof of their previous education in English.
- Immigration History: Students must have a clean immigration history and not have been refused a visa to enter the UK in the past.
Cost of a Tier 4 Student Visa UK
The cost of a Tier 4 student visa varies depending on the course's duration and the educational institution's location. As of 2021, the visa fee for a Tier 4 student visa is £348 for a course duration of up to six months, £475 for a course duration of more than six months, and £97 for each dependent.
In addition to the visa fee, students must also pay the healthcare surcharge, providing access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS). The healthcare surcharge is £470 per year, and students must pay it upfront for the entire duration of their course.
Dependent Visa
Students can bring their dependents to the UK on Tier 4 dependent visa. Dependents include spouses, partners, and children under the age of 18.
To be eligible for a dependent visa, the student must study a full-time course for at least six months.
Dependents must also meet the financial requirements, which are £1,334 per month in addition to the student’s living expenses. They must also have a valid visa to enter the UK.
Checklist for a Tier 4 Student Visa UK
To apply for a Tier 4 student visa, students must provide the following documents:
- Passport: A valid passport that will remain valid for the duration of the course.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): A unique reference number provided by the educational institution sponsoring the visa.
- English Language Proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency, such as a Secure English Language Test (SELT) or proof of previous education in English.
- Financial Documents: Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses in the UK, such as bank statements or a letter from a financial sponsor.
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test: Students from certain countries must undergo a TB test and provide a certificate as part of the visa application.
- Academic Documents: Academic qualifications, such as transcripts and certificates, to demonstrate the eligibility for the course.
- Additional documents, such as a police clearance certificate, biometric information, and a passport-sized photograph, may also be required.
Processing Time for a Tier 4 Student Visa UK
The processing time for a Tier 4 student visa varies depending on the location of the visa application centre and the time of year. In general, the processing time can take up to three weeks for applications made outside the UK and up to eight weeks for applications made within the UK.
However, students can pay an additional fee for a priority service to expedite the visa processing time. The priority service is available for applications made within the UK and can reduce the processing time to as little as 24 hours.
Obtaining a Tier 4 student visa is essential for international students who wish to study in the UK. Students must meet the eligibility criteria, including having an offer of admission from a licensed educational institution, sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees and living expenses, and English language proficiency.
ATier 4 student visa costs include the visa fee and the healthcare surcharge. Dependents on Tier 4 dependent visas can also be included, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
To apply for a Tier 4 student visa, students must provide a checklist of documents, including a valid passport, CAS, proof of financial support, and academic qualifications. The processing time for a Tier 4 student visa varies, but students can pay an additional fee for a priority service to expedite the processing time.
Overall, obtaining a Tier 4 student visa is necessary for international students who wish to pursue their academic goals in the UK. Students can embark on a fulfilling educational journey in the UK by meeting the eligibility requirements, providing the required documents, and allowing sufficient time for the visa application process.
|
FAQs
Can I work while studying on a Tier 4 student visa in the UK?
Yes, Tier 4 student visa students can work part-time during term time and full-time during vacation periods.
Can I bring my family with me on a Tier 4 student visa?
Yes, dependents can be included on Tier 4 dependent visa, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Do I need tuberculosis (TB) test to apply for a Tier 4 student visa?
Students from certain countries must undergo a TB test and provide a certificate as part of the visa application.
How much does a Tier 4 student visa cost?
The cost of a Tier 4 student visa depends on the length of the course and the location of the visa application centre. The current visa fee is £348, and students must also pay a healthcare surcharge of £470 per year.
What is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)?
A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a unique reference number that confirms a student has been accepted to study at a licensed educational institution in the UK.
Can I apply for a Tier 4 student visa from within the UK?
Yes, students can apply for a Tier 4 student visa from within the UK, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and their current visa allows for a switch to a Tier 4 visa.
How long does it take to process a Tier 4 student visa?
The processing time for a Tier 4 student visa varies depending on the location of the visa application centre and the time of year. In general, the processing time can take up to three weeks for applications made outside the UK and up to eight weeks for applications made within the UK.
Can I extend my Tier 4 student visa?
Yes, students can extend their Tier 4 student visa if they continue to meet the eligibility criteria and their course of study is longer than six months.
