Want to study in Britain? Smart Migrate UK can help you through the Student visa process step by step. We’re led by Aditi Bhardwaj, a trusted and experienced UK visa consultant who has helped many students get offers and visas for colleges and universities across the UK.
Whether you’re applying from overseas or already in the UK, we’ll explain what you need, help you prepare a strong application, and keep you on track with deadlines and documents.
Talk to a study visa advisor
Who’s eligible for a UK student visa?
You must be 16 or older and:
- Have an offer from an approved education provider (we’ll check your offer and CAS).
- Have enough money for tuition and living costs (the amount depends on your city and course).
- Speak, read, write, and understand English to the required level.
- If you’re 16 or 17, have parental consent and proof of it.
If you’re 16–17 and will be studying at an independent school, you may need a Child Student visa. We’ll tell you which visa type is right for you.
(This route replaced the old Tier 4 (General) visa.)
When to apply
Applying from outside the UK
- You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts.
- You can expect a decision in approximately 3 weeks.
Applying from inside the UK
- You may submit your application up to 3 months before the course start date.
- Apply before your current visa ends — your new course must start within 28 days after your current visa expires.
- You can expect a decision in approximately 8 weeks.
We’ll plan your dates, review your CAS, and identify potential issues early.
How long can you stay
- Degree level (RQF 6+): usually up to 5 years.
- Below degree level: usually up to 2 years.
This depends on what you’ve studied in the UK before. We’ll review your past studies to confirm your maximum time allowance.
When you can travel
- Up to 1 week before your course if it lasts 6 months or less.
- Up to 1 month before your course if it lasts more than 6 months.
Don’t travel before the start date on your visa.
See fee guidance by category
Fees and the health surcharge
- Visa fee: £490 (same price applies inside or outside the UK).
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): paid annually with your visa. We’ll calculate the total cost for you.
- Each dependent (if allowed) must pay their own fee and IHS.
Bringing your partner and children
In some cases, your partner and children can come with you as dependants. The rules depend on your course and education provider. We’ll check if you qualify and prepare your applications together.
What you can and can’t do
You can:
- Study your course.
- Work the hours you’re allowed (depends on your course level and term time).
- Be a student union sabbatical officer.
You can’t:
- Get public funds or pensions.
- Work as a professional sportsperson or coach.
- Be self-employed.
- Study at an academy or council-funded school.
We’ll explain the exact work rules outlined on your visa so you can follow them.
After you finish your course
- Extend your visa to keep studying.
- Switch into the student route from another UK visa (if allowed).
- Apply for a Graduate visa and stay for at least 2 years (or longer for doctoral graduates).
We’ll help you choose the best option once you finish your course.
How Smart Migrate UK helps (led by Aditi Bhardwaj)
- Course & Sponsor Check: We confirm that your university or college is an approved provider.
- Money & IHS: We calculate the funds and health surcharge required.
- Documents & CAS: We prepare a complete, clear application and help prove your genuine student status.
- Application Filing: We submit your application, upload evidence, and arrange biometrics.
- Before you travel: We review your visa decision and confirm your entry timing.
- After arrival: We help with BRP, right-to-work checks, and next steps.
With Aditi’s personal review of tricky cases, you’ll get simple, workable steps that reduce the chance of refusal or delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same as Tier 4 (General)?
No. The current student visa replaced the Tier 4 (General) visa.
How much money do I need to show?
It depends on your city and tuition. We’ll provide a clear, personalised breakdown and bank statement checklist.
How long does it take?
Outside the UK: about 3 weeks. Inside the UK: about 8 weeks. Faster services may be available—we’ll let you know.
Ready to start?
Smart Migrate UK can help with every step of your study visa journey.
Note: Rules and fees change. This page reflects the information you shared. We always follow the latest UK Home Office guidance when you apply.
Start your visa planning