UK Student Visa Guide 2025

UK Student visa requirements 2025

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

Before applying, your university or college must issue you a CAS number. This is a unique 14-character reference that confirms your place on a course at a licensed sponsor. You must include this number in your visa application.

Maintenance (financial) requirement

You must show you have enough money to pay for your course and support yourself. The maintenance requirement is:

• In London: £1,334/month for up to 9 months (£12,006)
• Outside London: £1,023/month for up to 9 months (£9,207)
• Plus your course fees if not already paid

You must have held this money for at least 28 consecutive days ending no more than 31 days before you apply.

English language requirement

You must prove English at B2 level (CEFR) for degree-level courses. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, TOEFL and others. Some qualifications taught in English are also accepted.

Working on a Student visa

Most students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacations. However:

• Working more than 20 hours in term time is a visa violation and can lead to deportation
• Some courses (below degree level) restrict work to 10 hours per week
• Self-employment and business activity are generally not permitted
• Always check the conditions on your BRP

Graduate visa — stay after you graduate

After completing your degree, you can apply for the Graduate visa which lets you work in any job (or look for work) for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates). There is no salary requirement and you do not need a job offer. Use our Visa Fee Calculator to see the costs.

Bringing dependants

From January 2024, most Student visa holders can no longer bring adult dependants (partners) to the UK unless studying a government-funded scholarship or a PhD. Children can still accompany you.