• UK

UK Tier 4 Student Visa: A Complete Guidance for UK Student Route Visa

1935 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Sep 05,2023 05:51 PM IST

Many international students come to UK every year to acquire prestigious degrees. However, overseas students must apply for a visa to study in the UK. Read the blog to learn about UK Tier 4 Student Visa, including visa eligibility, process, guidelines, etc.

The UK remains one of the top destinations for international students, thanks to its world-renowned universities and rich cultural heritage. To study in UK, most international students will require a visa. The Tier 4 Student Visa, now commonly known as the Student Route Visa, is the primary route for those wishing to pursue their studies in the UK. Read the blog to learn about the UK Tier 4 Visa requirements, eligibility, process and more.

UK Visa Tiers

Tier Visa System in the UK is a point-based visa category system which determines the visa status of the applicant. To qualify for a visa in the UK, candidates are required to score a certain number of points on an assessment test that considers factors like age, English fluency, etc., relevant to the Tier under which the candidate is applying for a visa. The table below gives a brief description of the types of UK Visa Tiers:

Tier	Description	Eligibility
Tier - 1	High-value migrants	Investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding scientists and artists
Tier - 2	Skilled workers	Applicants with a job offer in the UK
Tier - 3	Low-skilled workers	Suspended
Tier - 4	Students	Applicants who want to study in the UK
Tier - 5	Temporary workers	Au pairs, seasonal workers, religious workers

Note: The UK Visa Tiers are constantly evolving, so it is important to check the latest requirements before applying for a visa.

What is a UK Tier 4 Visa?

The UK Tier 4 (General) Student Visa is a visa that allows non-EU/EEA students to study at a school, college or university in the country. International students can apply for this visa if they are accepted to a full-time course at an academic institution in UK.

Who Can Apply for a UK Tier-4 General Student Visa?

In order to apply for Tier-4 visa in the UK the applicant must be:

• An international student who wants to study in UK, or

• Already in the UK, and wishing to remain in the country to study, or

• Already residing in the UK and wants to switch to the Student visa category.

UK Tier 4 Visa: Eligibility

To be eligible for a Tier 4 Student Visa, candidate must:

• Be 16 years old or above

• Have been accepted to a full-time course at a university, college or approved education provider in the UK

• Have sufficient money to support themselves and pay for the course

• Have a valid ATAS certificate, if required

• Have proof of parental or other legal guardian consent if the candidate is under 18 years

UK Tier 4 Visa: Checklist

Below are some of the documents that students require for a UK Education Visa:

• A valid passport

• Proof of sufficient finances to cover the living cost

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number

• Passport-size coloured pictures

• Tuberculosis test results

• In case of additional requirements, the institute notifies the candidate before the submission of their application

Apart from the above-mentioned documents, some universities require additional documents, such as:

• A valid ATAS certificate if it is the requirement of course

• In case the applicant is below 18 years old, documentation of parental or other legal guardian consent is required

• If the applicant is receiving financial support for the course fee and living expenses in the last 12 months, a formal permission from the financial sponsor is required to submit the application.

How to Apply for a UK Student Visa?

Applicants applying for a UK student visa must keep the following things in mind:

• Start the process by filling out the online application form, which requires the applicant to pay the visa fee and the healthcare surcharge (as applicable).

• Submit the necessary documents, including CAS number, passport, photograph, proof of finance, etc.

• Next step is to have the biometrics and photograph taken at the visa application centre.

• Get the result of the application. If the visa application has been granted, appear for the interview later on (if required).

What is UK Tier 4 Visa Fee?

Visa Type	Visa Duration	Eligibility	UK Tier 4 Fee (average amount)*
UK Tier 4 Visa (general)	Entire Course Duration + 1 Month	16 Years or Above	£370 - £380
UK Tier 4 Visa (children)	Below 16: 6 Years + 4 months 16-17 years : 3 years + 4 months	6-17 years	£370 - £380

*To get real-time updates on visa fee or other requirements, contact the experts at Canam.

UK Tier 4 Visa: Processing Time

The application process begins once the candidate submits the application. The process generally takes around three to four weeks. Student needs to be present in their home country for biometrics and interview for the first time student visa application.

Dependant Visa

The Dependant Visa allows the spouse or children (unmarried) to visit the main visa holder in the UK for the same amount of time granted to the main visa holder. The visa takes around 15 days to process, and each dependant is also subject to the Immigration Surcharge, which is based on whether the dependant is an adult or child applicant.

Latest Update

With effect from July 2023, the government has reduced the number of dependant visa applications that can be made with a student visa application. As per the new student visa and dependant visa immigration rules, an international student coming to the UK on a student visa cannot bring family members on a dependant visa unless the student is enrolled in a postgraduate course that is currently designated as a research program or a PhD program.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, UK offers international students world-class education opportunities, and the Student Route Visa is the key for many international students to unlock these prospects. However, it is important to be well-prepared and informed about the process to avoid any delays or mistakes in the process.

Connect with the expert study abroad consultants at Canam to get complete information on programs offered in the UK, top academic institutes and visa guidance.

Also read : Why study MBA in UK?

FAQ

What is the UK Tier 4 Student Visa?

The UK Tier 4 Student Visa is a visa that allows international students to study in the UK. It is also known as the Student Route Visa.

How long does it take to get a Tier 4 UK visa?

The earliest a candidate can apply for a Tier 4 visa is 6 months prior to starting the course. It then takes around 3-4 weeks to get a decision on their visa. To get real-time updates regarding the UK Tier 4 Student Visa Processing time, connect with the experts at Canam.

Can I work while I'm on a Student Route Visa in the UK?

Yes, students on this visa type are allowed to work, but there are restrictions based on the level and type of course. Therefore, students are suggested to consult expert overseas counsellors to get the latest updates.

Can I study in UK without IELTS in 2023?

Yes, it is possible to study in UK without IELTS if the student applies to certain universities that have alternative requirements such as proof of over 60-65% in English in Class XI and XII, an undergraduate degree with medium of instruction as English, or a pre-sessional language course available for international students.

How much does it cost to apply for the UK Tier 4 Student Visa?

The application fee for the UK Tier 4 Student Visa ranges between £370 - £380. Applicants may also need to pay other fee, such as the visa facilitation fee and the health surcharge.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Edmonds College

Washington, USA • 83 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 11000-20500 / year

INTO Group - Colorado State University

Colorado, USA • 130 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 28000-32000 / year

Leaders Institute - Sydney Campus

New South Wales, Australia • 7 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 16000-18500 / year

Illinois Eastern Community Colleges - Frontier Community College Campus

Illinois, USA • 12 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 10500-11000 / year

EDUCO - Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Indiana, USA • 18 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 50000-51000 / year

Shorelight Group - The University of Utah

Utah, USA • 115 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 32000-35000 / year

University of Central Lancashire - Preston Campus

England, UK • 206 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 14000-28000 / year

Sprott Shaw College - Victoria Healthcare and Nursing Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 2 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 14000-38000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visit - Edmonds College, USA

Study in USA • University Visit

Vadodara • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Northeastern University

Study in Canada, USA • University Visit

Bangalore • 03:30PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Roger Williams University, USA

Study in USA • Webinar

Hyderabad-Kukatpally • 12:30PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Best Countries to Study MBBS Abroad at Low Cost

Studying MBBS abroad is more than just earning a degree. It's about acquiring a globally recognised medical degree that opens doors to advanced medica...

Updated on • Dec 14,2024 04:17 PM IST • Courses in Canada

MBA in Finance in New Zealand

Did you know New Zealand has become an emerging destination for pursuing an MBA (Master of Business Administration) program? The number of MBA student...

Updated on • Dec 13,2024 05:05 PM IST • New Zealand

Education System in Singapore

Singapore, also known as the "Lion City," has one of the most holistic and innovative education systems in the world. The Organization for Economic Co...

Updated on • Dec 12,2024 05:03 PM IST • Singapore

Medical Courses in UK

Medical courses in the UK are recognised globally for their academic challenge, updated facilities, and comprehensive practical experience. UK Univers...

Updated on • Dec 10,2024 05:36 PM IST • study in the UK

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • Dec 09,2024 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

Letter of Motivation for Germany

If you are planning to study abroad, you must know that the SOP is the most essential document for the application process. In Germany, the same SOP i...

Updated on • Dec 07,2024 05:11 PM IST • Germany

Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Studying abroad is an experience of a lifetime, incorporating distinct incidents and events. Students are advised to work part-time to make this adven...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:38 PM IST • Study in Germany

Health Insurance in Germany for International Students

Do you know that Germany has one of the world's oldest national health insurance systems? That's right, and the health insurance system of Germany dat...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:05 PM IST • Study in Germany

Scholarships in Germany for International Students

For international students looking to pursue their higher education abroad, Germany is known as one of the most affordable study destinations. Its cre...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 03:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study Permit for Canada

Planning to study in Canada? But in order to heading off to the land of the maple leaf, it's important to understand how to apply for a Canadian study...

Updated on • Dec 05,2024 05:04 PM IST • Study in Canada

Student Life in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most renowned universities that provide learning opportunities to students nationwide. The country is known ...

Updated on • Dec 04,2024 04:46 PM IST • study in the UK

Master of Information Systems (MIS) in USA

In today's fast-paced and digitally-driven world, organizations increasingly depend on information systems to streamline operations, enhance decision-...

Updated on • Dec 02,2024 05:28 PM IST • USA

Bachelor of Nursing Courses in Australia

Are you passionate about helping others and drawn to the dynamic world of healthcare? A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia could be the perfect la...

Updated on • Nov 30,2024 03:16 PM IST • Australia

Study Medicine in Germany

Are you an international student planning to study medicine in Germany? We want to tell you are going in the right direction, as Germany hosts world-c...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:34 PM IST • Study in Germany

Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

Germany is gaining popularity for its top-notch universities of applied science, known as Fachhochschule. These esteemed institutes offer top-quality ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:22 PM IST • Germany

Student Life in Germany

Germany is known for its affordable education and top-class universities in Europe, but what is it like to become a student at a German univ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 04:18 PM IST • Study in Germany

Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide to Study in Germany

Ever dreamt of studying in a land steeped in history and innovation? Germany, a powerhouse of education and engineering, beckons you with it...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 03:54 PM IST • Study in Germany

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:55 PM IST • PTE

Masters in Project Management in USA

Students with ISTJ Personality may have a successful future in project management as their sole personality aligns with the needs of an exceptional pr...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:15 PM IST • USA

IELTS Speaking Questions

The IELTS exam is a popular way for people who want to study overseas, but don't speak English as their first language or where it's not spoken often....

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:45 PM IST • IELTS

UK Tier 4 Student Visa: A Complete Guidance for UK Student Route Visa

Table of Contents

UK Visa Tiers

What is a UK Tier 4 Visa?

Who Can Apply for a UK Tier-4 General Student Visa?

UK Tier 4 Visa: Eligibility

UK Tier 4 Visa: Checklist

How to Apply for a UK Student Visa?

What is UK Tier 4 Visa Fee?

UK Tier 4 Visa: Processing Time

Dependant Visa

Latest Update

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams