OISC REGULATED · UNITED KINGDOMTEMPORARY VISA

Student Visa — UK Immigration Advisers

The UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) allows you to study in the UK at a registered institution. You must have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a Student sponsor institution and meet financial requirements. Most full courses of 6+ months require a Student visa for non-EEA nationals.

Visa code

Course duration + buffer

Duration

£490

Gov fees from

OISC

Regulator

Visa details

Visa typeStudent Visa

CodeST

DurationCourse duration + buffer

Est. gov fees£490 (gov) + agent + IHS

RegulatorHome Office / OISC

Key eligibility

Unconditional offer from a UK UKVI-licensed student sponsor (CAS required)

English language proficiency (B2 CEFR / IELTS 5.5–6.5 depending on course level)

Sufficient funds: £1,334/month for London, £1,023/month outside London

Funds must be held in your account for 28 consecutive days before application

Valid passport and biometric information

Parental consent required if under 18

Why use an OISC adviser for the Student Visa?

Student visa refusals often cite insufficient funds or failure to satisfy the entry clearance officer of genuine student intent. An OISC adviser helps you prepare your financial evidence, personal statement, and address any previous refusals or complex immigration history.

Student Visa Advisers

OISC-regulated advisers and solicitors specialising in Student Visa applications.

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Frequently asked questions — Student Visa

Can I work on a UK Student visa?

Yes, but with restrictions. If studying at a higher education institution, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. If studying at an FE college, you are limited to 10 hours per week during term. Work restrictions do not apply during the holidays.

What is the Graduate Route visa?

The Graduate Route allows you to stay in the UK for 2 years after graduating from a UK higher education institution (3 years for PhD graduates). It requires no job offer and allows you to work in any role. It is an ideal stepping stone to a Skilled Worker visa after you find a sponsored employer.

Do I need to show funds for the whole course?

No. You only need to show funds for your first year of study (9 months maximum, capped at £9,207 in London and £6,207 outside London), even if the course is longer. Funds must be in a regulated bank account and held continuously for 28 days.

Can I extend my Student visa to complete my course?

Yes, if your course takes longer than expected or you need more time to complete your studies, you can apply to extend your Student visa from inside the UK, provided you are still sponsored. Your sponsor must assign a new CAS for the extension.

Does my Student visa count towards settlement (ILR)?

Normally, time on a Student visa does not count towards settlement. However, time on the Graduate Route does count. Most students transition to a Skilled Worker visa (which leads to ILR after 5 years) rather than seeking to count student years towards settlement.