Student Visa Process

Studying in the UK for more than six months needs a Student visa under the points-based system. You apply online on GOV.UK and then give your fingerprints and photo at a visa application centre.

Step by step

1. Apply to a licensed sponsor. Only universities and colleges on the Home Office sponsor register can issue the document you need.
2. Accept the offer. Most offers are conditional at first. You meet the conditions (final marks, English) and pay the deposit.
3. Receive the CAS. The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies is a reference number, and you need it to apply.
4. Prepare your funds. Show the first-year tuition still due plus living costs (see the costs page), held for at least 28 days in a row.
5. Take the TB test. Nepali applicants must take a tuberculosis test at a clinic approved by the UK. Book it early, because the certificate is needed for the application.
6. Complete the online application and pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which gives access to the NHS.
7. Biometrics and documents. Attend the visa application centre.
8. Decision. Applications from outside the UK usually take a few weeks, but plan for more in busy months.

What gets an application refused

• Funds not held for the full 28 days, or documents in the wrong format.
• Missing TB certificate or an old, expired document.
• A weak answer in the credibility (CAS) interview some universities hold, or in the visa interview if the Home Office asks for one.
• A course that does not fit your background, with no clear reason.

Compliance and your university

Universities must keep their visa refusal and enrolment rates below Home Office limits, so they check applicants carefully. A well-prepared, honest file helps both you and the university.

Check before you rely on it. Fees, the funds amount, the English rules and the process for specific nationalities are updated by the Home Office from time to time. Rules, fees and dates are changed by governments often. We last reviewed this page in October 2026. Confirm the current position on GOV.UK: Student visa or ask our counsellors, who check it again before your file is submitted.

Talk to WIEC about the UK

Our Lalitpur counsellors can review your marks, English score and finances and tell you honestly which courses and universities fit. Book a free appointment, start your file online at Apply Online, or practise for the English test with IELTSWIZZ.