How do I apply for a student visa?

• Find the address of the British Mission in the country of your birth or the country in which you are currently living. Get in touch and ask for an application form;
• We advise you to apply as early as possible; a student visa can be issued up to 3 months before its valid date starts. You must state clearly on your application form the date you intend to travel to the UK;
• You will need to take the following documents to your British Mission;
• Your completed visa application form and application fee;
• Your passport (check that it's in date) and 2 recent passport sized photographs;
• Your uncondtional offer letter from your course provider;
• Evidence of financial security (see top tips below);
• Evidence of intent to return;
• Evidence of accommodation whilst on your course.

Top Tips for a Successful Student Visa Application

Know your course provider

You will be asked to give reasons why you have chosen your particular course provider so make sure that you do your research and find out aboutyour chosencollege or school before completing your application.

It may also be useful to find out about providers that offer similar courses so that you can include a comparison and a valid reason for your choice in your application.

Include information about the location, facilities, reputation etc.

 

Know your course

Do you know:

Your hours of study;
Your course qualification(s);
How you will be assessed (examinations, essays/assignments etc.)?



Sufficient financial capability
You will need to prove that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your course.
If you are providing bank statements, make sure they cover at least 3 months.
Ask your course provider if you are required to pay a deposit, when the outstanding fees are due and if the fees are refundable.
Ask about living expenses including accommodation, food and transport.
Remember to budget for travel, excursions in the UK and the cost of returning home to your country.
You may be allowed to work part time when you are in the UK but make sure you ask staff at your British Mission about this; you should not include any money you might earn from a part time job in your student visa application.


Get it right 1st time!
Take some time to complete your visa application; make sure it is well presented.Seek professional advice from your British Mission or the International Office of your course provider.
Make sure that you fully understand the terms and conditions of your unconditional or acceptance offer.
If somebody is assisting you with finance for your course, make sure you attach a Sponsorship Certificate to your application.
You will be asked to provide a personal statement; make sure it is in your own words and based on your own, personal circumstances.
Include evidence that you intend to return to your country (e.g. a letter from your employer stating that they will keep your job open for you whilst you are studying in the UK and/or there may be the possibilty of promotion on successful completion of your course).
It may help your application if you mention that you or your family own property in your home country (bring proof as it shows that you are more likely to return home after your studies).
If you are not employed, explain how successful completion of your course in the UK will better equip you for finding a job in your home country.
Don't forget to mention how important your UK experience will be and how it will enhance your career prospects in today's global market.

 


Please note, the advice written here is given in good faith and correct at time of writing.

Please check with your local British Mission for any changes or updates.

Live and Learn Homestays Ltd. accepts no liability for any losses suffered due to advice given here.