Apply for UK student visa from India

Key takeaways:

• Ensure you meet the basic eligibility and requirements for the UK student visa.
• Follow the application process online and attend a biometric appointment.
• Gather all the necessary documents for the visa processing.
• Pay the fees via credit/debit card, online banking, or demand draft.

Did you know that the UK is home to over 500,000 international students every year?

The country offers world-leading education with a vibrant student life. 

The United Kingdom is a favourite destination for many Indian students. If you are an Indian student planning to study in the United Kingdom, you need a UK student visa.

In this article, we'll cover:

• What you need to get a UK student visa from India
• Basic eligibility and requirements for Indian students
• UK student visa  and cost

Let's get started.

UK student visa eligibility

To get a UK student visa from India, you must:

1. Have an unconditional offer from a licensed UK educational institution/Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number
2. Get your English-language proficiency exam scores, such as the IELTS or TOEFL
3. Show sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and tuition fees while in the UK
4. Pay for health insurance/healthcare surcharge as part of your application

You can apply for the visa and check for additional information on the UK Government’s website.

For more information on the exact details of UK student visa requirements, check our guide to the UK student visa.

Also read: Study in UK

What are the new rules for the UK study visa in 2024?

The UK government has updated the English language proficiency standards, stricter financial requirements, and has suggested raising the cost of visas. 

Upon acceptance of the proposal, visa applicants will be required to additionally pay the National Health Service apart from the health surcharges.

£490 to apply for a Student visa from outside the UK

Also read: UK Government retains Graduate Visa Route

UK student visa requirements

Here is the UK student visa documents checklist for your reference:

• A valid passport
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) provided by the UK institution after you have accepted their offer
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs in the UK
• Recent passport-sized photographs as per UK visa guidelines
• Academic certificates and transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or other approved English language test scores
• Completed visa application form
• Tuberculosis test results
• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance certificate (if required)

Note: If any of your supporting documents are not in English, you will need to have them translated and dated, along with the translator's name and signature.

Talk to an Edvoy counsellor today to know the list of documents for visa processing.

What are the English language requirements for UK student visa?

Generally, universities in the UK require a minimum band of 6 in IELTS. Some foundation courses also accept an overall band of 5.5.

How to apply for UK student visa from India

The application process for a UK student visa is primarily online. Let’s see how to apply:

1. Visit the official UK government website for visas and immigration. 
2. Create an account and complete the application form.
3. Submit the necessary documents.
4. Pay the visa application fee online.
5. Book an appointment at your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) and submit your biometrics and documents.

Also read: Which UK student visa do I need?

NOTE

You must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days after arriving in the UK. It has your visa details and is proof of your right to study in the UK.

Tips to apply for UK student visa from India💡

1. Plan and start your application process early.
2. Ensure that all documents are complete and comply with the UK visa requirements.
3. Provide correct information in your application.
4. Learn to answer visa interview questions about your study plans and intentions in the UK.

Also read: How to prepare for the UK student visa interview

UK student visa fees

The UK student visa involves the following costs:

• UK student visa application fee: £363
• Healthcare surcharge (Immigration Health Surcharge - IHS): £624 per year of stay
• Biometric fee: £19 (approx.)

You can pay your UK student visa fee through credit or debit cards, online banking, or Demand Draft.

How can Edvoy help with your applications?

Our counsellors at Edvoy embody transparency and professionalism, and adhere to the standards set out in documents such as the “National Code of Ethical Practice for UK Education Agents 2021” or the “Educational Agency Certification Standards”.

Our counsellors cater to each student's needs, guiding them from choosing the right course to navigating the visa process. They provide you with clear and realistic information about what's required.

Edvoy offers end-to-end assistance throughout the study-abroad process, including university selection assistance, application guidance, funding advice, visa application support, pre-departure orientation, and ongoing student support.

Why compromise? Choose excellence with Edvoy's assistance!

Get started with your journey and talk to a friendly Edvoy counsellor today! Download the app.

Frequently asked questions

What is the UK student visa ?

The UK student visa  is usually 2-3 weeks from the date of your biometric appointment. Certain cases may take a longer duration.

How can I check the status of my UK student visa application?

You will be given a reference number on your appointment day for tracking your application status. Using this, you can track your application number. If you choose to be notified through messaging, you will be intimated via SMS and email.

When to apply for visa extension?

For a visa extension, make sure you apply before the expiry of your current visa. You may stay in the UK till the time a decision is conveyed to you.

What is the student visa UK cost?

The UK student visa application fee is approximately ₹36,000, excluding the healthcare surcharge and biometric fee.

Can Indian students work while studying in the UK?

Yes, Indian students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.