Foreign nationals over the age of 16 can apply for a student visa to study in the UK. Applicants between the ages of 4 and 17 may apply for a student visa for children under the age of 18. In most cases, students are sponsored by the educational institution and given a visa to study at that university for the duration of the term. The UK government has announced a new student visa route starting on October 5, 2020, and the requirements for the same are listed below.
REQUIREMENTS FOR OBTAINING A STUDY VISA
These non-tradable points will be required for students to be granted time off. Those that meet the route requirements will receive points, which include sponsorship, English language, and financial/maintenance requirements. The Tier 4 student visa’s main requirements are as follows: Accepted for a course at a Tier 4 licenced educational institution with no strings attached; At least a B1 or B2 CEFR level in the English language for degree-level students and higher; Provide for one’s living expenses and educational costs in the United Kingdom without relying on state subsidies. Students from outside the UK can now apply up to six months before the commencement of their study under the new student route.
From 5 October 2020, EU nationals will be able to apply for entrance clearance to the UK, which will allow them to enter on 1 January 2021. The list of ‘low risk’ nationals has been expanded to include EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens. There will be no need for students from these countries to submit proof of their financial status or academic credentials in order to receive an offer of study. Due to the applicant’s status as a permanent resident, they do not need to demonstrate financial resources when asking for permission to remain in the UK for longer than a year. There is a 28-day waiting period before an application can be submitted in the United Kingdom.
Entry clearance or permission to stay applications require the following funds: Students studying in London are required to have sufficient funds to pay any outstanding course fees as stated on their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, and £1,265 for each month of the course (up to a maximum of 9 months). There must be sufficient money to pay any outstanding course fees specified on the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, plus £1,015 for each month of the programme that students are enrolled in outside of London (up to a maximum of 9 months).
Tier 4 Doctorate Extension Scheme, if the application is made As a student union sabbatical officer or as a doctor or dentist in training, the candidate will meet the financial requirement and does not need to prove finances when requesting for entry clearance or permission to stay. If they have already proven that they have met the English requirement, at the level required for their current application, in a prior successful application for entrance clearance or permission to remain in the UK, then they have met the requirement. If they are a national of one of the specified majority English-speaking nations, or if they have a qualifying qualification, they can meet the English language criteria. An applicant will meet the English language requirement if they have submitted a valid digital reference number from an approved provider proving that they have passed an approved English language exam to the required level within the past two years. This means that applicants with an A’ level in English or higher in English language and literature will meet the English language requirements for admission.
RIGHT TO WORK
Working 20 hours a week during term time, full-time during vacations, or doing work placements as part of the course is permitted for students in the UK who are enrolled in a degree-level course at an institution of higher education. Students can only work 10 hours per week during term time if their study is below the degree level.
WHAT CAN WE DO FOR YOU?
Lemain Solicitors’ Immigration lawyers have extensive expertise serving students from all around the world. Being personable, inventive and constantly going the additional mile to ensure our clients get the special attention they deserve are just some of the things we strive for. Our Immigration team has a strong reputation and is committed to providing our customers with clear, open, and accurate guidance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: IF I DECIDE TO STUDY IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, CAN I BRING MY FAMILY ALONG WITH ME?
A: Unmarried partners and children are welcome to join international students who are enrolled in a full-time programme of at least six months’ duration sponsored by the government or an international sponsorship agency, or who are enrolled in a postgraduate programme of at least nine months’ duration at a university with a proven record of compliance, or who are enrolled in a Doctorate Extension Scheme.
WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM TIME FRAME FOR A STUDENT TO COMPLETE THE COURSE?
A: In accordance with the Home Office’s new Student Visa route, which took effect on October 5, 2020, international students over the age of 18 studying for a diploma or certificate can stay in the UK for a maximum of two years. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency grants exemptions to international students completing courses below the degree level that are subject to regulatory requirements. There is no exception from the five-year cap for international students, unless their course of study is one of the ones designated for exemption. The updated Student Visa route does not reflect a study cap for postgraduate studies, save for individuals who have already been granted leave as postgraduate doctors or dentists – in which case the study cap would be three years..
Q: MY STUDENT VISA APPLICATION WAS TURNED DOWN. WHAT NOW?
A: student may choose to submit a new application that corrects any previous errors; appeal the decision by administrative review if there has been a case working error; or challenge the decision by way of a judicial review if it was unlawful, unreasonable, or procedurally unfair and improper.
Q: IN ORDER TO MEET MAINTENANCE CRITERIA, ARE BANK STATEMENTS OF THE APPLICANT’S PARENTS ACCEPTABLE?
A: You or your parents or legal guardians may be able to demonstrate that you have enough money to cover your living expenses. They’ll also have to show proof of their relationship with the account holder and get their permission to utilise the money.