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UK Student Visa Process 2027 | Complete Guide

Last verified 29-October-2026

At a glance

Country
United Kingdom
Visa type
Student
Fee
£558
Where to apply
Online via the official UK Visas and Immigration (www.gov.uk)

Are you planning to study in the United Kingdom? but don’t know the procedure? Then read this complete guide of the UK student visa process 2027. All students must obtain a visa in order to enter the country and study legally. The UK Student Visa (formerly known as the Tier 4 General Student Visa) is an official clearance document issued by the United Kingdom government that will allow all international students aged 16 or above to travel to and live in the UK.

Additionally, there are 3 types of UK student visa including general student visa, child student visa and short-term study visa. I will explain one by one below.

Student Visa (Formerly Tier 4 General):

This type of visa is issued to students aged 16 or 18 and older (depending on the course level). For this visa you must have an offer for a full-time course at a licensed UK student sponsor (institute or university). This visa even allows students to work up to 20 hours per week

Child Student visa.

This type of visa is for children between the age of 4 and 17 years. Parents of children below 12 are required to have their permit or visa to stay with them during their education. Parents must also fulfil all the requirements of the child student visa of the UK.

Short-term study visa.

This visa is issued to students who want to pursue short courses. The validity of this visa is between 6 to 12 months. On this visa, students are not allowed to work, extend visa or bring their dependents.

Who is Eligible for UK Student Visa 2027?

To be eligible for a UK Student Visa, you must meet the following Points-Based System criteria. You must score 70 points to get your visa.

  1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Students must get unconditional offer from a UK university/institution. The institute must hold a valid Student Sponsor license. It has 50 points.
  2. Financial Capability: Students must provide proof that they have enough funds to cover tuition fees for 1 year plus living costs held in a bank account for a continuous 28-day period. It has 10 points.
    • Inside London: £1,529 per month (up to 9 months).
    • Outside London: £1,171 per month (up to 9 months).
  3. English Language Proficiency: Students must show an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as IELTS Academic or prove qualification exemption (CEFR level B2 for degree-level or higher). It also has 10 points.
  4. Tuberculosis (TB) Test: You must show medical certificate for TB. Applicants from specified countries (including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, etc.).

What is UK Student Visa 2027 Fees & Additional Costs?

The fees and additional costs are as follows;

  • Standard Application Fee: £558
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year (gives access to the UK’s NHS).
  • Biometric Enrollment Service Fee: £19.20 at the local Visa Application Centre (VFS).
  • Optional Priority Services: Priority (5 working days) ~£500 extra; Super Priority (24 hours) ~£1,000 extra.

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What is the validity & duration of stay of a UK Student Visa 2027?

The UK student visa is valid for the entire duration of your degree program. An additional margin of up to 4 months is given after your course completes.

How to Apply?

To apply for the visa students must follow the step by step process given below;

  1. Obtain your CAS: Accept an unconditional offer from a licensed UK university and pay the required amount to receive your official 14-digit CAS reference number.
  2. Gather Required Documents: Prepare your passport, CAS statement, financial bank statements (following the 28-day holding rule), English test results, and TB test certificate.
  3. Submit Online Application: Create an account on the GOV.UK Student Visa Portal, complete the form, and give your CAS details.
  4. Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee (£558) and the IHS fee online during application submission.
  5. Book Biometrics & Upload Documents: Book an appointment at your local Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) to upload scanned documents, give fingerprints, and take a photo.
  6. Receive Digital eVisa: Once approved, your status will be linked directly to your passport digitally via your UKVI account.

Explore Opportunities:

Source Government of UK, 29-October-2026 View the original
Written by Kubra Khan Updated 31-October-2026

Information is published for guidance and may change without notice. Confirm every requirement and fee with the destination country's embassy, consulate or official portal before travelling or paying anything. We are not an agent and do not charge for any guide.

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