Understanding UK student visa requirements is essential for international students planning to study in Britain. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the points-based eligibility system and UKVI rules for international students to financial requirements, English language criteria, and the Appendix Student immigration rules. Whether applying for undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programmes, this guide explains the student visa UK requirements you need to meet for a successful application in 2026.
- UK Student Visa Rules and Regulations 2026
- Appendix Student Immigration Rules Explained
- Student Route Eligibility Assessment
- 70 Points System and CAS Requirements
- Financial Requirements for UK Student Visa
- English Language Requirements
- UK Student Visa Conditions and Restrictions
- Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding UK Student Visa Requirements in 2026
The UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4 General) allows international students aged 16 and over to study at licensed educational institutions in Britain. Meeting the student visa requirements for UK involves satisfying a points-based system, providing financial evidence, demonstrating English language proficiency, and obtaining a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a Home Office-approved sponsor.
The student visa application fee is £524, with an additional Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year required to access NHS services during your studies. Applications can be submitted up to six months before your course start date when applying from outside the UK.
UK Student Visa Rules and Regulations 2026
What are the main UKVI rules for international students?
UKVI rules for international students require applicants to score 70 points across three categories: a valid CAS from a licensed sponsor (50 points), proof of sufficient funds (10 points), and English language proficiency (10 points). Students must also meet suitability criteria and comply with visa conditions regarding work and study.
The UK student visa rules and regulations are set out in the Immigration Rules: Appendix Student, which governs all student route applications. These rules establish three core areas that applicants must satisfy: validity requirements, suitability criteria, and eligibility conditions.
Validity requirements ensure your application is properly completed with all necessary forms, fees, biometric data, and a valid passport. Your CAS must be issued within six months of your application date. If you were previously sponsored on a different visa, you may need written consent from that sponsor before applying.
Suitability criteria assess whether you should be granted entry to the UK. Factors listed under Part 9 of the Immigration Rules can result in refusal, including criminal history or submitting false documentation. Applicants who are unlawfully in the UK or under immigration bail are automatically disqualified.
Appendix Student Immigration Rules Explained
What does ST5.1 of the Immigration Rules require?
Paragraph ST5.1 of Appendix Student sets out the validity requirements for student visa applications. It specifies that applicants must use the correct application form, pay all required fees, provide biometric information, hold a valid travel document, and include a CAS issued within six months.
The Appendix Student immigration rules replaced the former Tier 4 provisions in October 2020 and continue to govern all student route applications. Understanding these technical requirements is essential for meeting UK student visa requirements successfully.
Key sections within Appendix Student include ST1 (purpose), ST2-4 (entry and stay requirements), ST5-7 (validity), ST8-10 (suitability), and ST11-26 (eligibility requirements covering points, CAS, courses, finances, and English language). The academic progression rules are found in ST26, while maximum study periods are detailed in ST17-18.
Student Route Eligibility Assessment
How does the UKVI student route eligibility assessment work?
The UKVI student route eligibility assessment evaluates whether applicants meet all requirements under Appendix Student, including the 70-point threshold, genuine student criteria, course validity, academic progression rules, and maximum study period limits. Caseworkers assess applications against each requirement before granting permission.
Beyond scoring 70 points, students must pass the Genuine Student assessment. This evaluation examines your educational history, the logic of your study plan, and your intention to comply with immigration rules. A credibility interview may be conducted to verify your genuine dedication to studying in the UK.
Your course must be at the appropriate level based on your age and whether your sponsor holds probationary or full licence status. For students aged 18 or over studying with a licensed sponsor, courses must be at RQF Level 3 or above in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, or SCQF Level 6 or above in Scotland.
70 Points System and CAS Requirements
The UK student visa operates on a mandatory 70-point system. Applicants receive 50 points for holding a valid CAS from a licensed student sponsor, 10 points for meeting financial requirements, and 10 points for demonstrating English language proficiency at the required level.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Your CAS is an electronic record issued by your educational institution confirming your acceptance onto a specific course. It contains essential information including your course title, academic level, start and end dates, tuition fees, and any qualifications used to secure your place. Each CAS can only be used once and is valid for six months from the date of issue.
Genuine Student Assessment
All applicants must satisfy the genuine student requirement. UKVI assesses whether you have a consistent academic history, a logical study plan that represents genuine progression, and a credible intention to leave the UK at the end of your studies if required. Your sponsor institution also provides their assessment of your suitability on the CAS.
Financial Requirements for UK Student Visa 2026
How much money do you need for a UK student visa?
Students must show funds to cover outstanding course fees plus living costs of £1,529 per month (London) or £1,171 per month (outside London) for up to 9 months. Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days, with the final day falling within 31 days of your application date.
The UK student visa financial requirements have been updated for 2026 to reflect current living costs. For detailed guidance on meeting these requirements, including acceptable evidence and common mistakes to avoid, see our comprehensive financial requirements guide.
Students who have been lawfully resident in the UK for 12 months or more are exempt from showing maintenance funds. Additionally, applicants from certain low-risk nationalities may benefit from differential evidence requirements, meaning they are not required to submit financial documents upfront but must have them available if requested.
English Language Requirements
To score 10 points for English language proficiency, applicants must demonstrate ability at CEFR Level B2 for degree-level courses or CEFR Level B1 for courses below degree level. Your student sponsor must confirm your English ability on the CAS, including the assessment method used.
If you take a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as IELTS for UKVI, the test provider name, your unique reference number, and scores for each component must be recorded on your CAS. Nationals from majority English-speaking countries, those with degrees taught in English, and holders of certain UK qualifications may be exempt from providing separate English language evidence.
- SELT certificate (IELTS for UKVI or equivalent)
- GCSE, A-level, or Scottish qualification in English
- Degree taught in English (from approved countries)
- Majority English-speaking country passport
UK Student Visa Conditions and Restrictions
What are the restrictions on a UK student visa?
Student visa holders cannot access public funds, work more than 20 hours per week during term time (degree level) or 10 hours (below degree level), engage in self-employment or freelance work, work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer, or fill permanent full-time vacancies.
Work Conditions
Work restrictions vary by study level. Students on degree-level courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods. Those studying below degree level are limited to 10 hours per week during term. Work placements are permitted if they form an assessed part of your course.
Self-employment is strictly prohibited on a Student visa. You cannot work as a freelancer, sole trader, or run a business while studying. If you wish to explore entrepreneurship, you may prepare a business plan with the intention of applying for the Innovator Founder route, but you cannot conduct any business activities until you switch visa category. Student Union sabbatical officer positions are allowed for up to two years.
Academic Progression Requirements
Students extending their visa must demonstrate academic progression to a higher level or, in specific circumstances, to a course at the same level that is clearly related to their previous studies or career aspirations. After completing a bachelor's degree, you can apply to study a master's. After a master's, another master's may be permitted if it supports demonstrable career goals.
Maximum Study Periods
The maximum study period for below-degree-level courses is 2 years from age 18. For degree-level courses, the general limit is 5 years, with extensions available for specific programmes such as medicine (6 years), architecture (7 years), and veterinary science (7 years). Postgraduate doctors and dentists may study for up to 3 years on foundation programmes.
Dependants
Dependants (spouse, partner, and children under 18) can accompany students enrolled on postgraduate courses of at least 9 months that are either government-sponsored or at doctoral/research level. Dependants of students on undergraduate or taught master's courses without government sponsorship cannot be brought to the UK under current immigration policy.
After Your Studies: Graduate Route
Upon completing your course, you may be eligible for the Graduate Route visa, which allows you to stay and work in the UK for 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates) without requiring employer sponsorship. However, from 1 January 2027, the Graduate Route will reduce to 18 months for bachelor's and master's graduates. Alternatively, you can switch directly to a Skilled Worker visa if you secure sponsored employment.
- Score 70 points: CAS (50) + Finances (10) + English (10)
- Show £1,529/month (London) or £1,171/month (outside London) for 9 months
- Work up to 20 hours per week during term (degree level)
- Self-employment and freelancing are strictly prohibited
- Dependants only permitted for PhD/research students or government-sponsored courses
- Graduate Route: 2 years (apply by Dec 2026) or 18 months (from Jan 2027), 3 years for PhD
Frequently Asked Questions
UK Student Visa Requirements: FAQs
What are the basic UK student visa requirements for 2026?
To obtain a UK student visa in 2026, you must score 70 points: 50 points for a valid CAS from a licensed sponsor, 10 points for meeting financial requirements (£1,529/month in London or £1,171/month outside London for up to 9 months plus course fees), and 10 points for English language proficiency at CEFR B1 or B2 level depending on your course. You must also be at least 16 years old, pass the genuine student assessment, and pay the £524 application fee plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year.
How many hours can I work on a UK student visa?
Students on degree-level courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods. Those studying below degree level are limited to 10 hours per week during term. Work placements that form part of your assessed course are permitted outside these limits. Self-employment is strictly prohibited on a Student visa, including freelance work and operating as a sole trader. For full details on work rights on a student visa, see our dedicated guide.
Can I bring my family on a UK student visa?
Under current rules, only students enrolled on postgraduate research programmes (such as PhDs) lasting at least 9 months, or those receiving government sponsorship, can bring dependants to the UK. Students on undergraduate degrees or taught master's programmes without government sponsorship cannot bring spouses, partners, or children. For more information on student dependant visas, see our comprehensive guide.
How long does UK student visa processing take?
The standard UK student visa processing time is approximately 3 weeks (15 working days) for applications made outside the UK. You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date, and it's advisable to apply as early as possible to allow time for any issues. Priority and Super Priority services may be available at additional cost depending on your location. For extensions from within the UK, processing typically takes up to 8 weeks, though most decisions are made sooner.
What happens if my UK student visa is refused?
If your student visa is refused, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You may be able to request an Administrative Review if you believe a caseworker error was made. Alternatively, you can submit a fresh application addressing the reasons for refusal. In limited circumstances, a Judicial Review may be appropriate. Professional immigration solicitors can assess your options.
Can I extend my student visa in the UK?
Yes, you can extend your student visa from within the UK if you need more time to complete your studies or wish to progress to a higher-level course. You must apply no more than 3 months before your new course starts, and the new course must begin within 28 days of your current visa expiring. Academic progression rules require that your new course represents advancement from your previous studies.
Do I need parental consent for a UK student visa if I'm 16 or 17?
Yes, applicants aged 16-17 must provide evidence of parental or legal guardian consent to study and live independently in the UK. The consent letter must support the visa application, detail living and care arrangements in the UK, and cover travel and reception plans. Consent must come from both parents, a single parent with sole legal responsibility, or a legal guardian.
Can I stay in the UK after completing my studies?
Yes, eligible graduates can apply for the Graduate Route visa, which allows you to stay and work in the UK for 2 years after completing a bachelor's or master's degree, or 3 years after a PhD. This visa does not require employer sponsorship. Alternatively, if you secure a job offer from a licensed sponsor, you can switch directly to a Skilled Worker visa. Note: From January 2027, the Graduate Route will reduce to 18 months for bachelor's and master's graduates.