Do I need a tuberculosis (TB) test for a UK student visa?

A tuberculosis (TB) test is required for UK Student Visa applicants from certain countries if you plan to stay in the UK for 6 months or more. The test must be completed at a UK Visas and Immigration approved clinic in your country before you apply.

The list of countries whose nationals must undergo TB testing includes much of Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia (including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal), Southeast Asia (including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia), parts of the Middle East, and several other regions. You can check the full and current list on the UKVI website.

The test involves a chest X-ray and, if necessary, further tests. It is usually valid for 6 months. You will receive a certificate from the approved clinic, which you must include with your visa application.

The cost of TB testing varies by country and clinic but is typically between £50 and £150. You must use a UKVI-approved clinic — tests from non-approved clinics will not be accepted.

If your TB test result indicates you have active TB, you will need to complete treatment before you can be issued a UK visa. Latent TB (inactive) does not prevent you from obtaining a visa.

Check the official UKVI list of approved clinics in your country on the UK government website to ensure you go to the correct place.