Tier 4 (General) - Student Visa

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Our immigration specialists hold unrivalled success rates and will ensure your Student Visa application is uncomplicated, fast and stressfree.

Worried about running up high legal fees?  Our fixed fee structure is very competitive and ensures that not only will you avoid running up any unnecessary expenses, but you will also have a clear idea of total costs from the outset. Call us now on +44 (0)207 001 2121 to find out more.

Q. What is the Tier 4 (General) Category?

This category is for individuals aged 16 or above who want to study in the UK. 

The requirements for this category have changed numerous times in recent years, as the Government has tried to make it more difficult for abuses of the student visa system to occur.  Therefore, it is important to have a clear understanding of the Immigration Rules before you accept and pay for a place at an educational institution in the UK, or your application may be rejected.

Q. Are there any restrictions on what I can study in the UK?

Yes, there are restrictions on the type of course you may study. 

  • You must be applying to study full-time in the UK on a course which meets certain criteria such as leading to a qualification at or above level 6 NQF or is an English language course. 
  • Alternatively, you can apply to study a Foundation Programme as a postgraduate doctor or dentist, or to work as a student union sabbatical officer.
Q. What are the requirements for this visa?
  • You must get a letter of acceptance from an approved education provider (called a ‘confirmation of acceptance for studies,’ or, ‘CAS’)
  • You will need to prove that you have enough money to cover both your course fees and living costs for the duration of your stay in the UK
  • You must prove competency in the English language to a specified level

Want to know more about how you qualify for this visa? Give us a call on +44 (0)207 001 2121.

Q. How do I know whether my college or university is ‘approved?’

All UK education providers who wish to teach international students must hold a UKBA approved Tier 4 Sponsor Licence.  You will only be granted a visa if you the institution where you wish to study has a Tier 4 Sponsor Licence which has not been suspended or withdrawn.

Before applying to study at your desired education provider, you should check it appears on the UKBA’s Register of Tier 4 Sponsors, which you can view here.

Q. How long can I get a Student visa for?

The period of time you will be allowed to remain in the UK for under this visa varies depending upon the length of your course.  If your course lasts for 12 months or more, you will usually be allowed to stay in the UK for the full length of your course plus up to 4 months after the end of the course.

However, if you are applying for a visa to study a course that is below UK Bachelors degree level you will only be able to spend a maximum of three years in the UK.

Q. Can I work whilst I study in the UK?

If the course you are studying is at degree level or above, or you are on a short-term study abroad degree programme, you may work for up to 20 hours per week during term time and work full-time during your holidays.

If the course you are studying is below degree level, you may only work for up to 10 hours per week during term time, but you can still work full-time during your holidays.

Q. Can I bring my spouse and children with me to the UK?

If you are studying at an approved higher education institution on a course at NQF level 7 or above which lasts for at least 12 months you may bring your spouse or partner and children aged under 18 with you to the UK.

You must be able to prove that you have sufficient funds to support your dependants throughout their stay in the UK, without recourse to public funds.

Q. Can I come to the UK if I do not have a confirmed place on my desired course?

Yes, if you have not completed all the arrangements for your studies you may come to the UK as a ‘prospective student,’ provided you meet certain criteria.  For example, you must be able to show that you will start your course within 6 months of arrival in the UK.  For more details, please contact us.

Q. What is the Tier 4 (Child) Category?

This category is for non-EEA children aged between 4 and 17 years old to come to the UK for their education.  Children aged between 4 and 15 would have to be educated at independent fee-paying schools, since they cannot study at public schools.

Q. Can you help me if my application is unsuccessful?

Yes, if your application is unsuccessful we can review it for you and if necessary lodge an appeal or submissions on your behalf.  We have an excellent record of overturning student visa refusals and entry bans.  Please view our case studies section for examples.

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