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Student Visa
OVERVIEW
Student Visa Solicitors
If you dream of studying in the UK at one of the world’s most prestigious universities, you will need a Student Visa.
While the application process is points-based and structured, strict requirements apply. A properly prepared application significantly increases your chances of approval.
At Lawhive, our network of experienced immigration solicitors provides professional guidance to help you secure your Student Visa with confidence.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
What Is a Student Visa?
A Student Visa is a points-based visa that allows international students to:
Live in the UK
Study at an approved institution
Work (subject to restrictions)
The course must meet specific eligibility requirements, and you must have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor.
The visa is granted for the duration of your course.
Who Can Apply for a Student Visa?
You can apply if you:
Are aged 16 or over
Have an offer from a licensed student sponsor
Can financially support yourself and pay for your course
Meet the English language requirement
If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must also provide parental consent.
When Can I Apply?
You can apply once you receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
The earliest you can apply is 6 months before your course start date.
How Long Can I Stay in the UK?
You can stay for the duration of your course.
Maximum limits apply:
Up to 5 years for degree-level study
Usually 2 years for courses below degree level
This visa was previously known as the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa.
Can I Extend My Student Visa?
You may be able to extend your visa if you:
Currently hold a Student or Tier 4 visa
Have an unconditional offer from a licensed sponsor
Have a valid CAS
Are progressing to a higher academic level
Can I Switch to a Student Visa?
You may switch from another visa if:
You are already in the UK
You have a CAS from a licensed sponsor
However, you cannot switch if you hold:
A Visitor visa
A Short-term Student visa
A Parent of a Child Student visa
A Seasonal Worker visa
A Domestic Worker visa
Leave outside the Immigration Rules
If you have status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you do not need a Student Visa.
When Can I Travel to the UK?
You must wait until:
Your Entry Clearance visa is valid, or
Your e-visa has been granted
Your travel date depends on your course start date and visa validity.
How Much Does a Student Visa Cost?
Home Office application fee: £490 per applicant
You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge
Legal fees vary depending on complexity. On average:
£675 – £900
More complex cases may reach £1,069
You will receive a clear quote before work begins.
Can I Bring My Partner and Children?
You may be eligible to bring dependants if you are:
A government-sponsored student on a course longer than 6 months, or
A full-time postgraduate student (RQF Level 7 or above) lasting 9 months or more
You must provide evidence of your relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
What Can I Do on a Student Visa?
You can:
Study your approved course
Work part-time (subject to conditions)
Work as a student union or sabbatical officer
Live in the UK during your course
What Can’t I Do?
You cannot:
Claim public funds or benefits
Work as a professional sportsperson or coach
Be self-employed
Study at a state-funded school
Do I Need to Prove Financial Requirements?
Yes. You must show you have sufficient funds to:
Pay your tuition fees
Support yourself during your studies
Evidence may include:
Bank statements
Loan agreements
Sponsorship letters
You may be exempt if you have lived lawfully in the UK for 12 months prior to applying.
English Language Requirement
You must meet the required level under the CEFR scale:
B2 level for degree-level courses
B1 level for courses below degree level
Required Documents
You will typically need:
Valid passport
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Proof of funds
Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate (if required)
Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
Written financial sponsor consent (if applicable)
Parental consent if under 18
Documents not in English or Welsh must be officially translated.
How to Apply
Secure admission from a licensed UK institution
Obtain your CAS
Submit your online application
Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
Provide biometrics
Upload supporting documents
How Long Does It Take?
Standard processing usually takes up to 6 weeks.
Priority and super-priority services may be available for faster decisions.
How Can Lawhive Help?
Lawhive provides access to experienced immigration solicitors who can:
Assess your eligibility
Review your financial evidence
Prepare and submit your application
Ensure compliance with Home Office requirements
Reduce the risk of refusal
We aim to assign a specialist solicitor within 24 hours of receiving your case details.
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Our Immigration solicitors are ready to help
With straightforward pricing – so you know exactly what to expect at every step.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Lawhive is an online platform that lets you work with a licensed solicitor instantly online. By making your Student Visa through Lawhive, you'll get updates from your solicitor from anywhere and be able to check on the status 24/7. You can exchange messages and files with your solicitor directly through the Lawhive platform, and access our support team whenever you need.
Absolutely, Lawhive has a network of SRA licensed solicitors able to help with Student Visa. We'll assign you with a solicitor who is able to get started right away. All Lawhive solicitors are fully regulated and are specialists in their legal area, with at least 10+ years of experience.
Getting started is easy. Just describe your matter and the help you're looking for and we'll assign you a solicitor. If you're unsure what you need, let us know and we can arrange for a solicitor to advise on the best course of action. Once your case has launched, you'll work directly with your solicitor through the Lawhive platform using any mobile, tablet or computer. You'll also get support from the Lawhive team anytime you need.
Lawhive has one of the largest networks of Immigration solicitors in the UK. As soon as we’ve received details of your case, we will assign a specialist solicitor with relevant experience to your situation. All solicitors operating through Lawhive are fully licensed and regulated by the SRA, and have a minimum of 10+ years experience.