Student Visa
Student Visa | Amicis Educational Services Ltd
The Student Visa, formerly known as the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, underwent rebranding at the end of 2020, introducing several changes, including a post-study option, implemented in June 2021.
Eligibility for the Student Visa requires obtaining a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies and accumulating at least 70 points on the points-based immigration system.
UK Student Visa Application
Starting from October 5, 2020, the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa was replaced with the “Student Route.” This new route also applies to EU/EEA nationals seeking entry into the UK after January 1, 2021.
If you aspire to study in the UK, you must apply for the Student Visa. Regardless of nationality (EEA or non-EEA), a unconditional offer from a licensed sponsor is mandatory to qualify for the visa.
Graduates from approved UK courses can now benefit from the Graduate Visa route, allowing them to live, work, and seek employment in the UK for up to two years, extendable to three years for PhD graduates.
Here, we present all the essential details about the new UK Student Route.
UK Student Visa Eligibility
To apply for the UK Student Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Receive an unconditional offer of study from an approved sponsoring institution.
- Obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from your sponsoring institution.
- Score at least 70 points on the points-based system.
- Possess the necessary academic qualifications required for the chosen course and genuinely intend to study in the UK.
- Demonstrate sufficient financial means to support yourself in the UK (including any accompanying family members/dependents).
Course Requirements
To qualify for the UK Student Visa, your chosen course must align with the Student Visa rules. Eligible courses include:
- Full-time courses leading to a qualification below degree level (RQF level 3, 4, or 5) with a minimum of 15 hours of organized daytime study per week.
- Full-time courses leading to a qualification at degree level or above (RQF level 6, 7, or 8).
- Full-time courses at degree level or above (RQF level 6, 7, or 8) that are equivalent to UK higher education courses and delivered as part of an overseas course.
- Part-time courses leading to a qualification above degree level (RQF level 7 or above).
- Recognised foundation programs for postgraduate doctors or dentists.
- English language courses at B2 level as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Financial Requirements
To study in the UK, you must provide evidence of your financial capacity to support yourself.
English Language Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate a certain level of English language ability to study in the UK. Below degree level, a B1 level is required, while degree level or above necessitates a B2 level.
The most common way to prove English ability is through a SELT English language test provided by Trinity College London, IELTS SELT Consortium, LanguageCert, or Pearson Education Ltd. The test can be taken at various centers worldwide.
Exemptions from English Language Requirement
Some international students are exempt from the English language requirement, including those who:
- Previously completed an English-taught course at an approved educational provider (undergraduate or postgraduate level).
- Demonstrated the required English level in another visa application. Intend to participate in a study abroad program as part of a university degree course in the USA.
- Are nationals of majority English-speaking countries (such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, etc).
How to Apply for a Student Visa
The Student Visa application is completed online and can be made from both within and outside the UK. Many applicants prefer applying from their home country.
At Amicis Educational Services Ltd, we offer expert assistance in formulating your Student Visa application to the highest standards. Our experienced immigration lawyers have helped countless international students begin exciting journeys in the UK. Whether you are applying from your home country or within the UK, we are here to support you. For more information on our specialist application package, call us now on 0333 305 3612.
Extending the Student Visa
Extensions for Student Visas are available in certain circumstances. Additionally, the previous Tier 4 (General) Student Visa can still be extended.
To be eligible for a visa extension, the following criteria must apply:
Received an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor.
Can provide a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. Studying at a higher academic level than the current course.
Studying at a higher academic level than the current course.
Appealing a Student Visa Refusal
To appeal a Student Visa refusal, follow these steps:
Identify the reasons for the visa refusal outlined in your refusal letter. Consider whether to request an administrative review or re-apply based on the refusal letter information. Check the submission deadline for administrative reviews (usually 14 days for in-country applications or 28 days for applications outside the UK). If opting for an administrative review, address the reasons for refusal and state any errors in the decision-making process. Submit the form to the Home Office through the requested method (post, email, or in person). Await the administrative review decision.
For more information on Student Visa extensions and the application process, Call us
Seeking advice from an experienced immigration lawyer after a Student Visa refusal is highly recommended. This will improve the chances of avoiding further refusals, saving time and expenses.
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