Latest update May 2024

      Student Standard Visitor

      Find out how long you can stay in the UK with your visa.

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      How long can I stay in the UK on a student visa?

      You’re able to stay in the UK for the length of your course, so it really depends on how long your course is as well as what study you’ve already completed in the UK.

      For example, if you’re aged 18 or over and your course is at degree level, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 5 years. However, if it’s below degree level, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 2 years.

      For more information about how long you can stay in the UK, click here.

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      Am I able to stay longer in the UK if I want to?

      It is possible for you to stay longer than originally planned, for example:

      Extend your Student Visa
      You can extend your student visa if you’re eligible, to continue your studies in the UK for instance.
      Switch from Another Student Visa
      You can switch to a Student visa from another visa if you’re already in the UK.
      Switch to a Graduate Visa
      You can switch to a Graduate visa to stay in the UK for at least 2 years after successfully completing your original course.

      Can I travel to the UK before my course starts?

      • If you’ve chosen a 6-month (or less) course, you can travel to the UK up to 1 week before.
      • If you’ve chosen a course that runs for more than 6 months, you can travel to the UK up to 1 month before.

      However, please note, that you are not able to travel to the UK before the start date given on your visa, no matter when your course starts. 

       

      Last updated 15 May 2024