UK Study Visa Process – Step by Step
Planning to study in the UK? Congratulations! You’re about to take a powerful leap toward a globally respected education, unparalleled academic resources, and life-changing personal growth. From centuries-old institutions like Oxford and Cambridge to modern research-intensive universities, the UK offers a truly elite academic experience.
But before you set foot on British soil and start your international journey, there’s a critical gateway you must pass through: the UK Study Visa process.
Applying for a UK student visa might seem overwhelming at first. Between choosing the right university, understanding visa regulations, arranging funds, and preparing documents—it’s easy to feel lost or confused. And with evolving immigration policies and strict documentation standards, even a small mistake can result in delays or refusals.
That’s exactly why Globexa Immigration is here.
We are proud to be recognized as the Best Study Visa Consultant in Haryana, with a strong presence in Panipat and a growing client base across India. With years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of UK immigration rules, we’ve helped hundreds of students secure admissions and visas for top UK universities—and we’re ready to do the same for you.
Whether you’re applying for a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s program, or a foundation course, our UK visa experts will guide you step-by-step through the entire process. From shortlisting the right universities to filing your visa application, and from crafting an impressive SOP to preparing you for your departure, we ensure your UK study dream becomes a smooth and successful reality.
1. Why Study in the UK?
The United Kingdom is one of the top destinations for international students due to its:
Globally recognized degrees from top universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial
2-year post-study work visa through the Graduate Route (3 years for PhD graduates)
Multicultural environment and rich heritage
Flexible course structures and diverse programs
Pathways to permanent residency for eligible candidates
At Globexa Immigration, we help students get admission to top UK universities and guide them through every step of the visa journey.
2. UK Study Visa Overview
The UK Student Visa (also known as the Student Route Visa) allows students aged 16 and above to pursue higher education in the UK. You must apply for this visa outside the UK and must be sponsored by a licensed educational institution.
✅ Visa Validity: Duration of your course + additional period
✅ Work Rights: Up to 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays
✅ Dependents: Allowed (for postgraduate programs at eligible institutions)
3. Step-by-Step UK Study Visa Process
Step 1: Select a UK University & Course
Your journey begins with selecting the right university and course.
Requirements:
University must be a licensed student sponsor
Course should be full-time
You must meet academic and language criteria
🔹 Globexa Support: We help you choose from over 100+ top UK universities based on your interests, background, and goals.
Step 2: Receive an Unconditional Offer Letter
Once your application is accepted, the university will issue an unconditional offer letter. You will likely need to:
Submit academic transcripts and certificates
Provide English proficiency test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc.)
Pay a tuition deposit (typically 25%–50%)
Globexa Tip: We help ensure your documentation is complete and accurate to speed up your admission process.
Step 3: Get Your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)
After accepting the offer and paying the required deposit, your university will issue a CAS.
What is CAS?
A unique 14-digit reference number
Confirms your admission and sponsorship
Needed to apply for your visa
CAS Includes:
Personal and course details
Tuition fees and payments made
Sponsor license number
Start and end dates of the course
Globexa Service: We cross-check CAS details to avoid visa rejections due to mismatches.
Step 4: Meet Financial Requirements
To qualify for a UK Study Visa, you must prove you have enough money to cover:
Tuition Fees
As mentioned in your CAS – typically for one academic year.
Living Expenses (Maintenance Funds)
£1,334 per month if you’re studying in London
£1,023 per month outside London
(Funds must cover up to 9 months)
Important Notes:
Funds must be held in your (or parent’s) bank account for 28 consecutive days
The closing balance date must be within 31 days of your visa application date
Acceptable formats: Bank statements, education loan letters, sponsorship letters
Globexa Expertise: We guide you in preparing perfect financial documentation that meets UKVI standards.
Step 5: Pass an English Language Test
Unless you’re from an exempt country or your university accepts MOI (Medium of Instruction), you must prove English proficiency.
Accepted Tests:
IELTS Academic (UKVI or standard)
PTE Academic
TOEFL iBT
Duolingo (accepted by some universities)
Minimum Score:
UG courses: IELTS 6.0 overall
PG courses: IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall
Globexa Add-On: We offer training and guidance for IELTS and other tests.
Step 6: Apply Online for the UK Student Visa
Prepare these documents:
Valid passport
CAS letter
Proof of finances
TB test certificate (if applicable)
Academic documents
English proficiency test scores
Parental consent (for applicants under 18)
Application Costs:
Visa Application Fee: £490
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776/year
Globexa Advantage: We complete your application accurately and upload all documents with proper formatting.
Step 7: Attend Your Biometric Appointment (VAC Visit)
You’ll need to visit the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) to:
Submit biometric information (photo + fingerprints)
Submit physical documents (if required)
Possibly attend a Credibility Interview
Step 8: Clear the Credibility Interview (If Required)
UKVI may ask for a short interview (usually online or in-person) to assess whether you are a genuine student.
Sample Questions:
Why have you chosen the UK and this course?
How will you fund your education?
What are your plans after graduation?
Globexa Coaching: We conduct mock interviews to help you respond confidently and honestly.
Step 9: Wait for the Visa Decision
Average processing time:
Standard service: 3 weeks
Priority service: 5-7 days (extra cost)
Super priority service: 1 working day (extra cost)
Globexa Monitoring: We track your application status and alert you when your visa is ready.
Step 10: Receive Visa and Travel to the UK
Upon approval, you’ll receive:
A 30-day vignette (entry visa) in your passport
A letter with details of your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
Travel Tip: Enter the UK during the 30-day vignette window. Collect your BRP within 10 days of arrival.
4. What You Can Do on a UK Student Visa
✅ Study full-time at your university
✅ Work part-time (up to 20 hours/week)
✅ Bring dependents (PG students only)
✅ Travel across the UK and Schengen countries (with additional visa)
✅ Apply for Graduate Route Visa to stay and work for 2–3 years post-study
5. Common UK Student Visa Mistakes (Avoid These!)
Applying with incorrect or insufficient financial documents
Submitting inconsistent academic history
Weak or dishonest interview answers
Applying too late
Not disclosing previous visa refusals
Globexa Shield: We help avoid all common errors that lead to rejection.
6. Why Students Choose Globexa Immigration
Located in Panipat, Haryana, Globexa Immigration is your trusted partner for:
Free profile assessment
University shortlisting & applications
IELTS preparation
Document verification & visa filing
Mock interviews & financial guidance
Post-arrival and accommodation support
✅ 100% transparent process
✅ Personalized counsellors
✅ High visa success rate
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should I apply for my UK Student Visa?
You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date. Apply at least 2–3 months in advance to avoid delays.
Can I bring my spouse and children with me?
Yes, if you’re enrolled in a postgraduate course of 9 months or more at a UKVI-licensed university. Dependents can work full-time.
How much bank balance is required?
You must show funds to cover 1 year of tuition (as per CAS) + 9 months of living costs (£1,334/month in London or £1,023/month outside).
Can I switch to a work visa or PR later?
Yes, after graduation you can apply for a Graduate Route Visa (2 years), and then switch to a Skilled Worker Visa leading to PR.
What if my visa is refused?
No worries! Globexa Immigration will analyze your refusal letter, prepare a strong reapplication, and help you succeed.
8. Final Thoughts
Embarking on a journey to study in the UK is one of the most exciting and life-changing decisions you’ll ever make. It’s not just about getting a visa—it’s about building a future, unlocking global opportunities, and experiencing a new culture, education system, and lifestyle.
However, the UK Study Visa process can feel overwhelming with its strict documentation rules, tight timelines, and changing immigration policies. One small error or missing document can lead to delays or even rejection. That’s why having the right guidance is essential.
At Globexa Immigration, we don’t just file your visa—we walk every step with you.
We’re more than visa consultants. We are your mentors, your support system, and your bridge to international success. From your very first consultation to the day you step onto UK soil, and even beyond—our team ensures you’re never alone.
