The short-term student category welcomes overseas students over the age of 16 who wish to study in the United Kingdom for a short period of time. Typically, students utilise this path to complete an English Language course, a Training course, or to conduct brief research projects as part of their degree programmes while studying abroad in a foreign country. Additionally, students may use this method to come to the United Kingdom to retake an exam or retake any modules; however, they should not use this route for extended periods of time by making many visits or using it in succession.
PREREQUISITES FOR SHORT-TERM STUDY VISAS
Students who fall into this category must demonstrate that they have been offered an unconditional place on a course at a recognised institution, that they have enough money to support themselves without relying on public subsidies, and that they have the means to pay for their return transportation. Children under the age of 18 who wish to study in the United Kingdom must also ensure that they have made appropriate arrangements for housing and that they have obtained permission from their parents or legal guardians to do so. In order to be eligible to apply for the 11-month short-term visa, students must have been accepted into a course to learn English and be over the age of sixteen. The course must be completed at an educational institution that has been approved as a licenced sponsor or that has been accredited by one of the organisations listed below.
- Language Services Accreditation Organization (ASO)
- Accreditation Service for International Colleges is a non-profit organisation that provides accreditation for international colleges.
- Accreditation in the United Kingdom
- The Education and Training Inspectorate of the British Accreditation Council (in Northern Ireland)
- Estyn is a woman who lives in the United States (in Wales)
- Education Scotland Independent Schools Inspectorate Office for Standards in Education (formerly known as the Office for Standards in Education) (Ofsted)
- Higher Education Quality Assurance Agency for Students (Office for Students Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education)
As an additional requirement, if the applicant wishes to study in the UK while on an overseas course, the applicants must ensure that their educational institution has its own national accreditation, that the educational programme will be delivered in part in the UK, and that other programmes that are similar to and equivalent to a UK degree are offered in other countries. Applicants for this visa who wish to conduct research in the United Kingdom must be over the age of 16, already enrolled in an overseas UK equivalent degree programme, and conducting the research in a UK recognised organisation. When applying for a short-term student visa, you will often be given 6 months for any short-term courses, including English language courses, or 11 months if you are solely applying for an extended student visa for English language courses.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: CAN A STUDENT VISA BE EXTENDED?
A: A short-term study visa cannot be extended and is normally granted for a limited time. Students should not use this route for extended periods of time.
Q:CAN I INCLUDE MY FAMILY?
A: Family members as dependents are not allowed. If they wish to join the applicant on the visit, they must apply separately for a standard visit visa.
Q: ON A STUDENT VISA, CAN I WORK PART-TIME?
A: Short-term study visa holders cannot work or engage in any business activities. This restriction also applies to work placements.
Q: HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A VISA?
A: Outside the UK, this category normally takes 15 working days to process. Applicants can apply up to 3 months before their intended travel date. This application also has a priority option.
Q: ARE THERE ANY FEES FOR A SHORT-TERM STUDY VISA?
A: Applicants for an 11-month short-term study visa must pay a mandatory health surcharge before their application is considered.