Student Standard Visa

A step-by-step guide that explains what you need to do during the application process.

student

How do I apply for a visa?

Top Tip: Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later at a time that suits you. You don't need to finish it all at once, so you can always go away and come back to it if you need to.

How do I apply for a Student visa outside of the UK?

Step 1 - Starting your application:

Visit here to start your application. Remember, as part of your application, you’ll be asked to confirm your identity. How you do this depends on where you’re from and what type of passport you have. You’ll either:

  • Give your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) at a visa application centre
  • Use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also need to create or sign into your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

You’ll be told which of the above options is right for you when you apply.

Step 2 - Waiting for a response:

You’ll typically get a response within 3 weeks. However, when you apply, you may be given the option to pay an additional fee to hear back sooner. Learn more, here.

How do I apply for a Student visa inside of the UK?

Step 1 - Starting your application:

Visit here to start your application. Since you’re applying from within the UK, you might be able to apply to:

Step 2 - Waiting for a response:

When you apply, you may be given the option to pay an additional fee to hear back sooner. Learn more, here.

Will I be contacted if my application is going to take longer than usual?

There’s a chance your application may take longer than usual if it’s a little less straightforward, but don’t worry, you’ll be contacted if this is the case. Reasons for this could include:

  • Your supporting documents need to be verified
  • You need to attend an interview
  • Your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)
What do I do if I need to change or withdraw my application?

Don’t panic if you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it, you can contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), here.

You can also ask to withdraw your application by contacting UKVI, but please be aware that your fee will only be refunded if UKVI has not started processing your application.

What happens after I hear back?
If your application is successful, you’ll get either:
  • a biometric residence permit - this is a permit that holds your name, date, place of birth, photograph and fingerprints. It can be used to confirm your identity and right to study. You’ll receive this if you gave your biometric information at a visa application centre during the application process.
  • a digital immigration status which you can view and prove online - you’ll receive this if you used the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app during the application process.

Find out what happens after you hear back.

Last updated 15 May 2024