In the first part of the UK Student visa series, we covered the types of visas, basic eligibility criteria, a list of important documents and other related information. This second part of this series will bring deeper insights into the procedure to apply for a UK student visa. Here’s what you must know about visas before planning to study in the UK.

Duration of the UK student visa

It will depend on the duration of your study program and if you have previously studied in the UK. If you are attending a degree level course and are over 18 years, you can stay up to 5 years. If you are attending courses below degree level, you are eligible to stay up to 2 years.

Steps to apply for the UK student visa

 

1. Application process

Apply through the official UK visa website or the UK embassy. Keep all the documents ready when you apply. While filling the application form, ensure you fill in the correct and complete details. Take a printout of the fully-filled application form. Also, pay the visa application fee and take a printout of the same. Please remember to note down the reference number that you will get once you have paid the fees. You are allowed to apply 6 months before your study program begins. 

2. Book an appointment 

After completing the above process, you will be directed to the visa application centre to book your appointment to capture your biometric data for  UK Student Visa.

3. Attend your appointment 

Ensure you arrive on time with all the necessary documents to avoid any hiccups. The digital finger scanner will capture your biometric data, and a digital photograph will be taken too. You might have to attend an interview to get your UK student visa processed. The interview will be conducted online. 

4. Communication

If you are selected, you will receive an email communication confirming the same. You can also opt to receive an update via SMS (only if your visa application centre offers this facility). So, do keep track of the communication that you will receive.

5. Collect the documents 

The decision usually takes up to 3 weeks, after which you will receive an email informing you whether you are selected or not. Once you receive the official communication, you will be required to collect your documents. You can collect it personally, or the documents will be sent to you via courier. Please remember to carry a valid ID proof and visa application fee receipt issued by the respective centre if you visit personally.

Things to know about UK student visa interview

As a part of the application process, you might need to attend the visa interview if you receive an intimation. This interview is to gauge if you are a genuine student interested in studying in the UK. Your visa application centre will inform you about the interview conducted by the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) caseworker. 

You may be asked about:

• The educational institution and the study program 
• Your academic scores
• Your future plans 
• The reason to study in the UK
• Your accommodation arrangements
• If you have enough funds and other related information  

So, we hope this information about the UK student visa helps advance your plans. To read about the previous part of this series of UK student visas, please click here . If you are worried about finances, we at Avanse  offer a customized study abroad loan. If you have queries related to an education loan or need more information,  please connect with us. All the best!