UK Visa for Indians: Process, Fees, Deadlines

With the number of esteemed universities, variety of courses and the standard of teaching, it is no surprise thousands of Indians choose to study in the UK. Cities like London, Edinburgh and  Manchester are becoming quite popular with students and are now hubs of different cultures and diversity. Language in the UK also poses no problem because Indian students are fluent in  English. The career opportunities in the UK are endless once you're done with your education. However, a UK visa is required for students to study there, and that may be a long and tedious process to secure. This blog will help simplify the process of getting a UK Visa for Indian students and tell you what to expect throughout the process.

Different UK Visa types 

While applying for a UK Visa for Indian students, you will come across 3 types of visas and can apply for the one they qualify for. The 3 types of visas are : 

• Student Visa (General) - This is primarily for students who are over the age of 18 (with some exceptions), and the validity of this kind of visa extends from 2 years to 5 years. This visa was previously known as a Tier 4 Visa.
• Child Student Visa - This is for students that have been sent an offer from UK independent schools between the age of 4 and 17.
• Short-term UK Visa - This is for students wanting to study English language courses lasting longer than 6 months and up to 11 months.

Are you an aspiring student trying to research about studying in the UK? Check out our blog on Everything About Studying in the UK.‍

Applying for a UK visa for Indian students online

The process of applying for a UK visa for Indian students may seem long and perplexing, but this blog will attempt to make that process a little easier to understand. Sometimes the visa application does get rejected, so be mindful of the requirements.

• The first step in obtaining a UK Visa for Indian students is to assess whether they are eligible to apply.
• A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) offered by the university stating the duration of the programme chosen.
• Proof of funds that show that you can cover your tuition and work expenses for the duration of your stay.
• Fill out the online UK student visa application form, then, using the calendar, book an appointment. Be mindful to include all the required documents like the English proficiency test scores, Tuberculosis medical test results and biometric information.
• The visa application fee, £363, must be paid.
• Make sure to attend the scheduled interview.

Indian students' requirements for UK Visa

These requirements must be followed carefully to ensure a positive outcome for visa applicants. 

• Offer Letter: The candidate must have received an offer letter from a recognised educational institution.
• Age: A minimum age of 16 years old is required.
• Language: Their knowledge of the English language and proficiency test scores must be as required.
• Finances: The university fees need to be paid, and the candidate must have the means to support themselves throughout their stay in the UK.

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UK Visa for Indian students processing time

Once the Uk visa is filed, the waiting period begins. The typical processing time for a Uk student visa is 3 weeks. Still, in case of any delays like the validation of supporting documents or a personal circumstances interview (in case of a criminal conviction), the applicant can reach out to The British High Commission or VFS, that is responsible for the administration of the visa application centres for the UK Border Agency in India. The application can also be tracked by the applicant by the VFS SMS alert service or by tracking it online on their website.

UK’s point-based visa system

Uk has a point-based Visa system where the candidates must have 40 points in total and must adhere to all the immigration rules. 

30 points are allotted to students that have received formal confirmation of acceptance from an accredited student sponsor

10 points are allotted to students who have the funds to sustain themselves and take care of all their living expenses. Here you can check out the best UK simcards for students.

Documents needed for UK Visa for Indian students

Here are some of the documents that are required and must be kept handy in order to apply for a UK visa. The UK visa for Indian students must be applied for up to 6 months before the start of the course, and you can enter the UK up to 1 week before the start date if the course is 6 months or less and up to 1 month before the start date if the course is for more than 6 months.

•  A valid Passport
• A Visa request form
• Visa application fee proof of payment 
• Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS)
• A passport-sized recent picture
• Proof of funds
• Tuberculosis medical results
• A police clearance certificate
• If there's a sponsorship, then the written agreement
• Immigration health surcharge (IHS) compensation
• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) is required.

Uk visa cost for Indian students

•  General student visa (Tier 4) - The price of the application is £363 29,395 INR, plus £680    per individual with any dependents. 
• Child student visa - The price of application Child student visa is £363 or 29,395 INR, including a healthcare premium.
• Short-term study visa - The visa fee of £93 or 9290 INR, for a 6 months visa or £179 or 17,878 INR, for an 11 months visa online.

 Work Opportunities with the UK Visa 

It depends on the kind of programme if you get a chance to work in the UK, but if permitted, 20 hours of work per week when the term is going on is allowed by the UK Visa, and this is moved up to full-time work during vacations like the Christmas or summer holidays. Work like internships or apprenticeships that are degree related isn't included in these conditions. After completing your studies, you can apply for a Post Study Work Visa that will allow you to work in the Uk for 2 years. Here are the highest paying jobs in the UK.

We hope this blog made the UK student visa application process for Indians easier to understand. After the visa is approved, you can check out all the theme parks in UK or the best road trips in UK you can take. Check out the best student discounts in the UK for a good deal. Also, if you're a student planning to study in UK, finding suitable accommodation might be a concern. Explore the amazing student accommodation option in UK to discover your ideal student housing. You can also read our blog on the simplest ways to become a UK resident as a student.