• UK

UK Tier 4 Student Visa: A Complete Guidance for UK Student Route Visa

2375 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Sep 05,2023 05:51 PM IST

Many international students come to UK every year to acquire prestigious degrees. However, overseas students must apply for a visa to study in the UK. Read the blog to learn about UK Tier 4 Student Visa, including visa eligibility, process, guidelines, etc.

The UK remains one of the top destinations for international students, thanks to its world-renowned universities and rich cultural heritage. To study in UK, most international students will require a visa. The Tier 4 Student Visa, now commonly known as the Student Route Visa, is the primary route for those wishing to pursue their studies in the UK. Read the blog to learn about the UK Tier 4 Visa requirements, eligibility, process and more.

UK Visa Tiers

Tier Visa System in the UK is a point-based visa category system which determines the visa status of the applicant. To qualify for a visa in the UK, candidates are required to score a certain number of points on an assessment test that considers factors like age, English fluency, etc., relevant to the Tier under which the candidate is applying for a visa. The table below gives a brief description of the types of UK Visa Tiers:

Tier	Description	Eligibility
Tier - 1	High-value migrants	Investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding scientists and artists
Tier - 2	Skilled workers	Applicants with a job offer in the UK
Tier - 3	Low-skilled workers	Suspended
Tier - 4	Students	Applicants who want to study in the UK
Tier - 5	Temporary workers	Au pairs, seasonal workers, religious workers

Note: The UK Visa Tiers are constantly evolving, so it is important to check the latest requirements before applying for a visa.

What is a UK Tier 4 Visa?

The UK Tier 4 (General) Student Visa is a visa that allows non-EU/EEA students to study at a school, college or university in the country. International students can apply for this visa if they are accepted to a full-time course at an academic institution in UK.

Who Can Apply for a UK Tier-4 General Student Visa?

In order to apply for Tier-4 visa in the UK the applicant must be:

• An international student who wants to study in UK, or

• Already in the UK, and wishing to remain in the country to study, or

• Already residing in the UK and wants to switch to the Student visa category.

UK Tier 4 Visa: Eligibility

To be eligible for a Tier 4 Student Visa, candidate must:

• Be 16 years old or above

• Have been accepted to a full-time course at a university, college or approved education provider in the UK

• Have sufficient money to support themselves and pay for the course

• Have a valid ATAS certificate, if required

• Have proof of parental or other legal guardian consent if the candidate is under 18 years

UK Tier 4 Visa: Checklist

Below are some of the documents that students require for a UK Education Visa:

• A valid passport

• Proof of sufficient finances to cover the living cost

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number

• Passport-size coloured pictures

• Tuberculosis test results

• In case of additional requirements, the institute notifies the candidate before the submission of their application

Apart from the above-mentioned documents, some universities require additional documents, such as:

• A valid ATAS certificate if it is the requirement of course

• In case the applicant is below 18 years old, documentation of parental or other legal guardian consent is required

• If the applicant is receiving financial support for the course fee and living expenses in the last 12 months, a formal permission from the financial sponsor is required to submit the application.

How to Apply for a UK Student Visa?

Applicants applying for a UK student visa must keep the following things in mind:

• Start the process by filling out the online application form, which requires the applicant to pay the visa fee and the healthcare surcharge (as applicable).

• Submit the necessary documents, including CAS number, passport, photograph, proof of finance, etc.

• Next step is to have the biometrics and photograph taken at the visa application centre.

• Get the result of the application. If the visa application has been granted, appear for the interview later on (if required).

What is UK Tier 4 Visa Fee?

Visa Type	Visa Duration	Eligibility	UK Tier 4 Fee (average amount)*
UK Tier 4 Visa (general)	Entire Course Duration + 1 Month	16 Years or Above	£370 - £380
UK Tier 4 Visa (children)	Below 16: 6 Years + 4 months 16-17 years : 3 years + 4 months	6-17 years	£370 - £380

*To get real-time updates on visa fee or other requirements, contact the experts at Canam.

UK Tier 4 Visa: Processing Time

The application process begins once the candidate submits the application. The process generally takes around three to four weeks. Student needs to be present in their home country for biometrics and interview for the first time student visa application.

Dependant Visa

The Dependant Visa allows the spouse or children (unmarried) to visit the main visa holder in the UK for the same amount of time granted to the main visa holder. The visa takes around 15 days to process, and each dependant is also subject to the Immigration Surcharge, which is based on whether the dependant is an adult or child applicant.

Latest Update

With effect from July 2023, the government has reduced the number of dependant visa applications that can be made with a student visa application. As per the new student visa and dependant visa immigration rules, an international student coming to the UK on a student visa cannot bring family members on a dependant visa unless the student is enrolled in a postgraduate course that is currently designated as a research program or a PhD program.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, UK offers international students world-class education opportunities, and the Student Route Visa is the key for many international students to unlock these prospects. However, it is important to be well-prepared and informed about the process to avoid any delays or mistakes in the process.

Connect with the expert study abroad consultants at Canam to get complete information on programs offered in the UK, top academic institutes and visa guidance.

Also read : Why study MBA in UK?

FAQ

What is the UK Tier 4 Student Visa?

The UK Tier 4 Student Visa is a visa that allows international students to study in the UK. It is also known as the Student Route Visa.

How long does it take to get a Tier 4 UK visa?

The earliest a candidate can apply for a Tier 4 visa is 6 months prior to starting the course. It then takes around 3-4 weeks to get a decision on their visa. To get real-time updates regarding the UK Tier 4 Student Visa Processing time, connect with the experts at Canam.

Can I work while I'm on a Student Route Visa in the UK?

Yes, students on this visa type are allowed to work, but there are restrictions based on the level and type of course. Therefore, students are suggested to consult expert overseas counsellors to get the latest updates.

Can I study in UK without IELTS in 2023?

Yes, it is possible to study in UK without IELTS if the student applies to certain universities that have alternative requirements such as proof of over 60-65% in English in Class XI and XII, an undergraduate degree with medium of instruction as English, or a pre-sessional language course available for international students.

How much does it cost to apply for the UK Tier 4 Student Visa?

The application fee for the UK Tier 4 Student Visa ranges between £370 - £380. Applicants may also need to pay other fee, such as the visa facilitation fee and the health surcharge.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Assiniboine Community College - Portage Campus

Manitoba, Canada • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 15000-15500 / year

New European College GmbH

Bavaria, Germany • 8 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 9800-9800 / year

Griffith University - Gold Coast Campus

Queensland, Australia • 478 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 32500-65000 / year

Fanshawe College - London Campus

Ontario, Canada • 173 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 12000-18500 / year

Shorelight Group- Bellarmine University

Kentucky, USA • 41 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 48500-49000 / year

University of South Australia - Mawson Lakes Campus

South Australia, Australia • 45 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 30500-42000 / year

Global University Systems (GUS) - University for the Creative Arts - Farnham Campus

England, UK • 97 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 16000-17000 / year

Education Centre of Australia (ECA) Group - Victoria University - Brisbane Campus

Queensland, Australia • 7 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 21000-25000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDY: DEGREES, PATHWAYS, DIPLOMAS - RIGHT OPTIONS FOR YOUR PROFILE

Study in Canada • Webinar

11:30AM

Virtual Event

University Visit - Assiniboine College

Study in Canada • University Visit

Ahmedabad • 02:30PM

In-Person Event

University Visits - Vancouver Community College

Study in Canada • University Visit

Amritsar • 01:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Accommodation in France for Indian and International Students

France is a dreamy country that's always in the news for its aesthetic cafes in Lyon, Seine in Paris and skiing in the French Alps. But beyond its all...

Updated on • Feb 14,2025 11:33 AM IST • France

Public Relations (PR) Courses in Australia

Recently, Australia has become a widely popular choice for international students. There is not a single reason for this popularity, but Australia off...

Updated on • Feb 07,2025 11:03 AM IST • Australia

Job Opportunities in France for International Students

Imagine yourself strolling down the Champs-Elysees with a steaming croissant in one hand and a freshly minted job offer in the other. It must sound li...

Updated on • Feb 06,2025 12:47 PM IST • France

Pros & Cons of Studying in France

Every country has a bright side and a dark side, and if you think that studying in France is going to be all rainbows and sunshine, it’s not. Like e...

Updated on • Feb 04,2025 05:49 PM IST • France

MS in Data Science in Germany

Deutschland is an emerging study-abroad destination attracting students from every part of the world. The reasons for this are affordable education, l...

Updated on • Feb 04,2025 12:29 PM IST • Germany

February Intake in Australia: Timeline, Courses, Universities, Deadlines & More

Students who desire to study in Australia should consider the February 2025 intake, which is known as the primary intake in Australia for admission, t...

Updated on • Feb 01,2025 04:57 PM IST • Australia

What is the difference between CV and Resume?

What is the difference between a CV and a resume? The question might sound simple, but it is important to answer. Both documents consist of informatio...

Updated on • Jan 31,2025 05:27 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

Cookery Courses in New Zealand for International Students

Is food something that interests you? Can you not resist the aroma of delicious delicacies? Are you passionate about food? If the answer to all the qu...

Updated on • Jan 29,2025 12:27 PM IST • New Zealand

High Paying Jobs in Germany

Germany, a powerhouse of innovation and industry, offers a fantastic job market with excellent salaries and a strong work-life balance. Whether you're...

Updated on • Jan 25,2025 05:52 PM IST • Study in Canada

WES in Canada

World Education Services (WES), is an organization designed to help individuals get their educational credentials evaluated to let them study in Canad...

Updated on • Jan 24,2025 10:50 AM IST • Study in Canada

Canada Student Visa Interview Questions

The perfect ending to any day, race, task, or project is to FINISH STRONG. The same is true for studying in Canada. To finish strong, one needs to cra...

Updated on • Jan 23,2025 12:16 PM IST • Study in Canada

Masters in Management in USA

Looking for a transformative experience that hones your managerial skills and unlocks a treasure of global job opportunities? BINGO! Here's a golden g...

Updated on • Jan 21,2025 05:46 PM IST • USA

Things to Keep in Mind Before Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is a life-altering experience, and you probably already know that, but are you prepared to live on your own, that too in a f...

Updated on • Jan 21,2025 05:21 PM IST • Study Abroad

IELTS Exam Dates 2025 in India

IELTS (The International English Language Testing System) is a forum to assess the English language ability of a candidate to study abroad across the ...

Updated on • Jan 18,2025 05:13 PM IST • IELTS

USA Study Visa Process

Once you get the offer letter from your dream American university the only thing left to do is to apply for a study visa. The F-1 study visa is the mo...

Updated on • Jan 16,2025 03:32 PM IST • USA

PTE Exam Centers in India 2025: Check City Wise PTE Exam Centers

Pearson Test of English or PTE is conducted all over India at various exam centers. There are 62 PTE exam centers in India, and candidates can also ta...

Updated on • Jan 16,2025 03:12 PM IST • PTE

May Intake in Canada 2025

What is May Intake in Canada 2025?Canada May Intake is considered the third most popular study intake in Canada after the September and January...

Updated on • Jan 15,2025 04:40 PM IST • Study in Canada

IELTS Reading Practice Tests 2025: Reading Passage and Sample Questions

The IELTS or International English Language Testing System exam consists of four modules – Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. The IELTS Readi...

Updated on • Jan 15,2025 04:14 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Letter Writing Topics 2025

There is a 60-minute time limit for the IELTS Writing test, with 20 minutes allotted for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2. IELTS General Writing Task ...

Updated on • Jan 15,2025 04:12 PM IST • IELTS

Summer Intake in Germany 2025

Germany is located in Central Europe and is known for its rich culture, history, strong economy, and high standard of living. Its diverse population h...

Updated on • Jan 14,2025 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

UK Tier 4 Student Visa: A Complete Guidance for UK Student Route Visa

Table of Contents

UK Visa Tiers

What is a UK Tier 4 Visa?

Who Can Apply for a UK Tier-4 General Student Visa?

UK Tier 4 Visa: Eligibility

UK Tier 4 Visa: Checklist

How to Apply for a UK Student Visa?

What is UK Tier 4 Visa Fee?

UK Tier 4 Visa: Processing Time

Dependant Visa

Latest Update

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams