Email
info@gisvisa.com
Item #1
Applying for a Student Visa (UK)
Types of UK Student Visas:
While the main route is the Student visa, it helps to know the other types, depending on age and course length.
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Student Visa
For students aged 16 or over with an offer from a licensed student sponsor. This is the main route for higher education. -
Child Student Visa
For children aged 4 to 17 studying at an independent school in the UK. Requirements and process are different from the Student visa. -
Short-term Study Visa
For courses up to 6 months, or up to 11 months for an English language course. You cannot work or switch to another visa inside the UK. For degree-level studies, the Student Visa is the correct route.
Documents Needed for Student Visa UK from Bangladesh:
- Confirm the course is UK Government-approved on the official website.
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) that proves the student received an unconditional offer from a UK institution.
- Parental Consent (for under 18): Provide parental consent, proof of relationship, and birth certificate. Consent must cover visa, living arrangements, and travel to the UK.
- Passport
- Proof of Funds:
- Tuition fee (as per CAS): Show 1 academic year (9+ months) tuition as per CAS; not required if you’ve had a valid UK visa for 12+ months.
- Maintenance fund (living expenses): London £1,529/month and Outside London £1,171/month, both for up to 9 months. (London means the City of London and the 32 London boroughs).
- Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days. The end date of the 28-day period must be within 31 days of the date you submit your visa application. If you have a student loan or financial sponsorship, you’ll need to provide evidence of this from your loan or sponsorship company. Must be a UKVI-listed bank.
- ATAS Certificate (If Required): Some students studying sensitive subjects at RQF Level 7 or above may be required to obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
- Academic Documents:
- All previous academic certificates and transcripts (SSC, HSC, Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s).
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Translations: Any document not in English must have a certified translation included with the original.
- Tuberculosis tests (TB): you’re coming to the UK for 6 months or more.
- Biometric Information
Step-by-Step UK Student Visa Application from Bangladesh
Once you have your CAS and have prepared your financial documents, you can begin the UK student visa application from Bangladesh. The process is done online.
Step 1: Start Your Online Application
Go to the official UK Government website (GOV.UK) and start your application for a Student visa. You can apply up to six months before your course start date.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the form accurately. You will need your passport, CAS number, and details about your course and university. Double-check every piece of information before proceeding.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
- Application Fees: £524 to apply for a student visa from outside the UK and £524 to extend or switch to a student visa from inside the UK; the same fee applies for each dependant.
- Healthcare surcharge: Required for visas over 6 months. The amount you must pay depends on the length of the visa you’re given and where you apply from. Dependants aged 18 or over usually need to pay the same amount as you. £776 per year for students and dependants. Over 6 to 12 months pay 1 year (£776), over 12 to 18 months pay 1.5 years (£1,164), and over 18 to under 24 months pay 2 years (£1,552).
Step 4: Book an Appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
After paying, you will be redirected to the commercial partner website (e.g., VFS Global) to book an appointment at a VAC in Bangladesh (Dhaka or Sylhet). At this appointment, you will submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).
Step 5: Upload Your Documents
Upload digital copies of all your supporting documents before your VAC appointment. Ensure all scans are clear and legible.
Step 6: Attend Your VAC Appointment
Visit the VAC at your scheduled time. Staff will check your passport, take your biometrics, and confirm your document submission. Some applicants may be required to attend a credibility interview.
Step 7: Wait for a Decision
After your appointment, your application is sent to UKVI for a decision. The standard UK student visa processing time will apply. You can track your application status online.