Visa fees
| Tier 4 (general) student | £298 |
| Student dependant | £298 |
| Student visitor (up to 6 months) | £80 |
| Extended student visitor (from 6 to 11 months) | £144 |
These fees are payable if you are applying for a visa from outside the UK. You will pay them in your local currency.
If your visa is refused
Please contact the International Student Advice team.
It is important to send a scanned or faxed copy of the refusal letter that you receive (fax: +44 (0)1225 385253).
You may be able to submit an Administrative Review, or make a fresh application – we will be able to advise you.
Tier 4 applications
When to apply
You should apply as soon as you have your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) statement and all your supporting documents ready.
We will contact you automatically about your CAS once you have accepted your unconditional offer. This will not be more than four months before the start of your course.
Check how long it will take to process your visa in your country.
Where to apply
If you are overseas
- you must get your visa before travelling to the UK
- you should apply through a Visa Application Centre in your country.
If you are in the UK
- we recommend that you use our Check and Send Visa Service.
How to apply
Applying online
It is possible to apply online in many countries. After applying, you will still be required to attend an appointment to provide your original passport(s), supporting documents and fees, if you have not paid online. You will also need to include a printout of the online application form.
You can make an appointment with the visa section online using the e-appointments system. You will be sent an email confirming the appointment.
You must also print and complete Appendix 8, even if you apply online. Send it in with your supporting documents.
If you can't apply online
If you can't apply online you must print and complete the application form and Appendix 8, to be submitted with all the supporting documents, photocopies of all your documents and payment.
- Tier 4 - VAF9 and appendix 8
- Dependants - VAF10
- Student visitor - VAF 1D
Biometric information
Biometric details are scans of all 10 fingers and a full-face digital photograph.
You need to provide your biometric details in person - this should take no more than 5 minutes. Your visa application will not be processed until you have met this requirement.
Credibility interview
You may have a short 'credibility' interview when you attend the visa application centre to submit your application and biometric information.
What will I be asked?
The interview focuses on your reasons for coming to the UK and your ability to explain this in English. For example, you may be asked about your course, studies or finances.
What happens next?
A report of the interview will be considered with your visa application and supporting documents.
You may be called for a further interview if the visa officer needs more information.
Useful links
- International Student Advice team
- The UK Council for International Student Affairs
- UK Border Agency (for official policy documents and more detailed information)
Please note that immigration rules are subject to frequent change. We try to keep this information as up-to-date as possible but it remains your responsibility to check your immigration requirements.
