UK Study Visa Application Process & Cost Involved (2025)

The United Kingdom remains one of the most preferred study destinations for international students due to its world-class education system, global recognition of qualifications, and strong post-study work opportunities. Thousands of students from India apply for the UK Study Visa every year to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, research, and diploma programs across top-ranked UK universities.

If you’re planning to study in the UK, understanding the UK Study Visa application process, documentation requirements, and visa cost is essential for a smooth journey.

Types of UK Study Visas

Most international students apply for:

• Student Route Visa (Previously Tier 4 Visa) – For courses longer than 6 months.

• Short-Term Study Visa – For short courses (e.g., English language programs).

Latest Processing Timeline (2025 Update)

On average, the UK Study Visa application takes:

• 15–30 days under Standard Processing

• 5–7 days under Priority Processing (additional cost applies)

Processing may vary based on application volume and documentation clarity.

Step-by-Step UK Study Visa Application Process

Applying for a UK Study Visa requires proper planning and accurate documentation. Below is a detailed breakdown of each step to help you understand the entire process smoothly.

1. Gather Required Documents

Prepare all academic and personal documents before starting your application. This ensures a faster and more organized process.

You will need:

• Valid passport (must be valid for your entire stay + have blank pages)

• 10th, 12th, and graduation transcripts/certificates (as applicable)

• Degree or diploma certificates (if applying for postgraduate studies)

• Work experience letters (if you have professional experience)

• English language test score (IELTS / PTE / TOEFL / MOI)

• Proof of funds (bank statements, education loan letter, or financial sponsorship)

Financial Requirement (2025 Rule):
You must show funds for 28 consecutive days:

• £1,334 per month if studying in London

• £1,023 per month outside London

This is required to demonstrate your ability to cover living expenses, plus you must show that you can pay your remaining tuition fee.

2. Prove Your English Language Proficiency

To study in the UK, you must prove that you can understand and communicate in English.

Accepted Tests:

• IELTS Academic

• PTE Academic

• TOEFL iBT

• Duolingo is accepted by some universities

• MOI (Medium of Instruction Certificate) is accepted by many institutions if prior education was in English.

Each university sets its own score requirement, typically:

• Bachelor’s Programs: IELTS 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each band)

• Master’s Programs: IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall (depending on course)

3. Apply to Universities & Receive Offer Letter

You can apply directly or through a UK Study Visa consultant. There are two types of offer letters:

• Conditional Offer Letter: Accepted temporarily — must meet additional requirements such as test scores or documents.

• Unconditional Offer Letter:  Admission is confirmed — you are ready to move to the CAS stage.

This step usually takes 7–15 working days, depending on the university.

4. Pre-CAS Interview

Once you receive your offer letter, the university will schedule a Pre-CAS interview, usually conducted over Zoom or MS Teams.

They will ask questions like:

• Why did you choose this course and university?

• How does this program help your future goals?

• Who is funding your education?

• Do you understand your course structure and location?

Purpose: To ensure you are a genuine student and not applying just to stay in the UK.

5. Pay Required Tuition Fee Deposit

After clearing the Pre-CAS interview, you will be required to pay an initial tuition fee deposit, usually between:

• £2,000 – £5,000 (depends on the university)

This payment confirms your intent to study.

6. Receive the CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

After the fee payment, the university reviews your:

• Academic documents

• English language scores

• Proof of funds (bank statements for at least 28 days)

Once satisfied, the university issues your CAS Letter. CAS contains a unique reference number, which is required to apply for your UK Study Visa.

This step takes 10–20 business days, depending on the university.

7. Submit UK Study Visa Application Online

Visit the UK Government Visa Portal and fill out the Student Visa application form.

You must upload:

• Passport

• CAS letter

• Financial proof documents

• Academic documents

• TB (Medical) Certificate (for students staying more than 6 months)

At this stage, you must also pay:

• Visa Application Fee

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

8. Biometrics Appointment at VFS

After submitting the online application:

• Book a biometrics appointment at your nearest VFS Global centre.

• Attend with your original documents.

• Biometric includes fingerprinting and photograph capture.

This step is generally completed within 1–7 days after application submission.

9. Wait for Visa Decision

Once approved, you will receive:

• Visa approval email

• Passport returned with UK Study Visa entry vignette

10. Receive Your Passport with a Visa Stamp

Once approved:

• Your passport will be delivered to you by courier OR

• You may collect it from the VFS center.

The visa stamped in the passport is a 30-day entry vignette. Your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) will be collected once you reach the UK.

UK Study Visa Cost (Latest Fee Structure 2025)

Example IHS Estimate (Course Duration):

Payment accepted by International Debit/Credit Cards.

Post-Study Work Opportunity (PSW Visa)

After completing your degree, you may apply for a Graduate Route Visa, allowing:

• 2 Years Work Visa after UG/PG program

• 3 Years Work Visa after PhD

This makes the UK Study Visa an excellent pathway to global career growth.

Conclusion

The UK offers excellent academic quality and career opportunities, but the UK Study Visa application requires careful documentation and strong financial preparation. With the right guidance, your UK education dream is achievable.

Need Assistance with Your UK Study Visa?

Abroad Gateway can help you with:

• University Selection
• SOP & Document Preparation
• CAS Process Support
• Visa Filing & Interview Preparation

Start your UK Study Visa journey with experts. Apply Now!