If you wish to study in the UK you must apply for a General Student visa (Tier 4). Students and their dependants must be able to maintain themselves financially and accommodate themselves. Some students are allowed to work part-time during term time and full-time during vacations. Students' spouses are allowed to work if the student has a valid visa for over 12 months.

Tier 4 (General) Students

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from an educational institution (Licensed Sponsor) will be required. To gain a visa under this category, applicants will have to score 40 points with a valid CAS (30 points) and meeting all of the requirements for the maintenance and funds test (10 points).

Tier 4 (Child) students - For children between 4 and 17 to come to the UK to be educated at independent schools. 

Tier 4 (General) Student - For all other students who wish to undertake 16+ education.

Maintenance and funds test:

Visas to UK can help you with the following:

1. Find the right course of study
2. Find a College/University
3. Obtain the necessary UK visa
4. Help you find accommodation
5. Advise you about part-time work
6. Help you with any extension of visa
7. Help you to switch to another category later

Additionally you may enter the UK to study a short-term course of less than 6 months (or 11 months with exceptions) or as a Student Nurse.

Short-term study visas

Short-term students can come to the UK under this category to study at a licensed educational provider or to carry out a short period of research. They cannot extend their stay and will not be able to work or carry out any business.

Prospective Students

A prospective student can obtain entry clearance up to 6 months to come to the UK to visit institutions they have received offers to study before making up their mind.  They can later switch to the student category whilst in the UK by obtaining a CAS and by satisfying the other requirements as a student.