The United Kingdom has long been a top destination for students from around the world. Whether you’re planning to study at a prestigious university in London or a college in Manchester, you’ll need to obtain a student visa to live and study in the UK legally. Understanding the cost of a UK student visa is essential to properly planning your study abroad journey. This article will guide you through the costs, the types of student visas, and the overall financial process for obtaining one.
Types of UK Student Visas
There are primarily two types of student visas for individuals wanting to study in the UK: the Student Visa and the Short-Term Study Visa. Both visas have different application processes and costs.
Student Visa
The Student Visa is for those who are 16 years or older and want to study a course that lasts more than six months. This visa is typically for full-time students enrolled in a higher education institution or a course approved by the UK government. It is essential for those looking to pursue a degree, diploma, or any long-term educational program.
Short-Term Study Visa
If you’re planning to study a short-term course (less than six months) in the UK, you may need a Short-Term Study Visa. This visa is also suitable for those taking English language courses. The application process is simpler and the cost is lower compared to the Student Visa.
Student Visa Cost Breakdown
The cost of applying for a UK student visa varies based on the type of visa and the length of your course. Let’s look at the different fees you may incur.
Application Fee for the Student Visa
As of 2025, the application fee for a Student Visa is £363 if you apply from outside the UK. This is the most common type of visa for students planning to stay for longer durations. However, if you’re applying from within the UK for a course extension or switching to a Student Visa, the fee can be higher. For applicants extending their visas or switching to a student visa, the fee is typically £490.
Application Fee for the Short-Term Study Visa
For those applying for a Short-Term Study Visa (valid for six months or less), the fee is generally £97 if applying from outside the UK. The fee for a longer short-term study visa (up to 11 months) is £186.
Healthcare Surcharge (Immigration Health Surcharge)
In addition to the visa application fee, you’ll need to pay an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The IHS is a mandatory fee for all visa applicants who will stay in the UK for more than six months.
How Much is the IHS?
The IHS fee is £470 per year of your course, so the total cost depends on how long you plan to stay in the UK. If your course lasts one year, for example, you’ll pay £470. For courses longer than one year, you will pay £470 for each year of study.
Additional Costs to Consider
Aside from the application fee and healthcare surcharge, there are several other expenses you need to consider when applying for a UK student visa. Below are some of the most common additional costs:
Biometric Fee
If you are applying for a visa from outside the UK, you’ll be required to pay a biometric fee. This involves providing your fingerprints and a photograph as part of the visa application process. The fee for biometrics is typically £19.20.
Visa Application Center (VAC) Fee
In some countries, you may also need to pay a fee to use a Visa Application Center (VAC) to submit your documents. The VAC fee can vary by country but generally ranges from £10 to £50.
Documents Translation Fees
If your documents are not in English, you’ll need to get them translated. Translation services can be expensive, so be sure to budget for this potential cost. Translation costs vary, but you can expect to pay between £50 and £100 per document depending on the service.
Financial Requirements for UK Student Visa
As part of the visa application process, you must prove that you can financially support yourself during your studies in the UK. This includes showing that you have sufficient funds to pay for tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Proof of Funds
For a Student Visa, you must demonstrate that you have at least £1,334 per month for living expenses if you are studying in London, or £1,023 per month if you are studying outside of London. This can include your personal savings or sponsorship from a family member or organization.
Tuition Fees
Aside from living expenses, students must also have funds available to cover their tuition fees. Tuition costs vary by institution and course, but they typically range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year for international students. Make sure to check the specific tuition fees for your course at the university or college you plan to attend.
UK Student Visa Application Process
Applying for a UK student visa is a multi-step process. Below is an overview of the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Determine Which Visa You Need
First, decide which visa category applies to your situation: the Student Visa or the Short-Term Study Visa. This will affect your application process and costs.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, you’ll need to gather several documents, including your passport, proof of acceptance to a recognized UK institution, proof of sufficient funds, and a tuberculosis test if required. Ensure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Submit your visa application online via the UK government’s website. You’ll need to create an account, fill in the application form, pay the visa fee, and schedule a biometric appointment if applicable.
Step 4: Wait for Your Visa to be Processed
The processing time for a UK student visa is typically around 3 weeks from the date of your appointment. However, processing times can vary depending on the country you’re applying from and the time of year.
Step 5: Receive Your Visa and Travel
If your visa application is successful, you will receive a visa vignette (sticker) in your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK. You’ll need to collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) after arriving in the UK.
Can I Work on a UK Student Visa?
Yes, under the Student Visa, international students can work part-time while studying in the UK. The exact number of hours you can work depends on the type of course and the university you are enrolled in:
- If you are studying at a degree level or higher, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- During vacations, you can work full-time.
Make sure to check the specific conditions of your visa, as working beyond the allowed hours can result in visa violations.
Conclusion
Obtaining a UK student visa involves various costs, including the application fee, healthcare surcharge, biometric fees, and additional expenses for document translation or Visa Application Centers. The total cost can vary depending on the type of visa, the length of your course, and other individual factors. It’s important to budget for these expenses and ensure you meet the financial requirements to study in the UK.
