student visa

Step 1 - Beginning your application:

Click here to start your application. At the start of your application, you’ll be asked to confirm your identity, and depending on where you’re from and what type of passport you have, you’ll either:

• have your fingerprints scanned (also called biometric information) and a photograph taken at a visa application center
• scan your identity document using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app - don’t forget, you’ll need to create or sign into your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to do this

Not sure which of the above options is right for you? Don’t worry, you’ll be told when you apply.

Step 2 - Waiting to hear back:

Typically, you’ll hear back within 3 weeks of submitting your application. Remember, when you apply, you may be asked if you’d like to pay an additional fee to hear back sooner.

Step 1 - The start of your application:

Click here to begin your application. When applying from inside the UK, you might be able to apply to:

• Extend your Student visa
• Switch to a Student visa from another type of visa

Step 2 - Waiting to hear back:

Once you’ve submitted your application, you may be asked if you’d like to pay an additional fee to hear back a bit quicker.

Your application could take a little longer than expected if:

• Your supporting documents need to be verified
• You need to attend an interview
• Your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)

But, don’t worry, someone will be in touch if this is the case to explain everything to you.

• you’ll receive a biometric residence permit - this is an ID card that includes your name, date, place of birth, photograph and fingerprints. This can be used to confirm your identity and right to study. Please note, that you’ll only receive this if you had your fingerprint scanned and photo taken 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 use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app during the application process.

Find out what happens after you hear back.