Oxford College of Science and Technology

Student Rights and Obligations under the Short-Term Study Visa

or Standard Visitor Visa

As an international student in the UK on a Short-Term Study Visa or Standard Visitor Visa, it’s essential to understand both your rights and obligations while you study in the UK. This document aims to guide you through the key aspects of your visa status, helping ensure that you remain compliant with the UK’s immigration laws while making the most of your educational experience.

1. Your Rights as a Short-Term Study Visa or Standard Visitor Visa Holder

As a student on a Short-Term Study Visa or Standard Visitor Visa, you have several important rights:

Right to Study

• You are permitted to study at an institution that is UKVI-accredited (not sponsored).
• You can study a course at Level 3 or above, depending on the course level permitted by your visa. You may study English language courses for up to 11 months or other academic courses for up to 6 months.

Right to Stay in the UK

• With the Short-Term Study Visa, you have the right to stay in the UK for the duration of your course, up to 6 months (or 11 months if studying an English language course).
• Your stay cannot exceed the limits specified in your visa conditions.

Right to Receive Educational Support

• You are entitled to receive support from the institution where you are enrolled. This includes access to academic resources, library services, and other student support services provided by the college.

Right to Travel within the UK

• You have the right to travel freely within the UK for the duration of your visa, except for periods when you are studying and attending classes.

2. Your Obligations as a Short-Term Study Visa or Standard Visitor Visa Holder

In addition to your rights, there are important obligations that you must adhere to while in the UK:

Obligation to Study

• You must attend your classes and study for the duration of your course as outlined in your visa. The Home Office expects you to pursue your education in a committed manner and complete your studies within the specified timeframe.
• You must adhere to the study requirements of your course, as specified by your institution and the course syllabus.

Obligation to Comply with Visa Restrictions

• You must not engage in any work or employment during your stay, as Short-Term Study Visa and Standard Visitor Visa holders are not permitted to work in the UK.
• You must not apply for work, a job, or self-employment while in the UK under this visa.
• You are prohibited from claiming public funds or accessing benefits during your stay in the UK.

Obligation to Leave the UK Upon Expiry

• You must leave the UK at the end of your permitted stay (either 6 months or 11 months), unless you apply to extend your visa in advance or change your visa status (if eligible).
• You cannot extend your Short-Term Study Visa or Standard Visitor Visa in the UK. If you wish to continue your studies, you must leave the UK and apply for a new visa from your home country.
• Overstaying your visa can have serious consequences, including future visa refusals or being barred from returning to the UK.

Obligation to Keep Your Personal Details Up to Date

• You are required to notify the Home Office or your institution if there are any changes to your personal details, such as your address or contact information.
• Keep your passport and immigration documents safe. In case of loss or theft, report it immediately to the police and the Home Office.

Obligation to Adhere to UK Law

• You are expected to follow UK laws at all times during your stay. This includes respecting local laws, health and safety regulations, and cultural practices.
• Any criminal conviction or breach of laws during your stay could jeopardize your visa status and ability to return to the UK in the future.

3. Working Restrictions

As a Short-Term Study Visa or Standard Visitor Visa holder, you are prohibited from working in the UK during your stay. This includes:

• Paid employment (whether part-time, full-time, or freelance).
• Self-employment or starting a business.

Engaging in work, whether paid or unpaid, could lead to your visa being cancelled and you may be asked to leave the UK immediately.

4. Health and Insurance

• Health Care: If you are on a Short-Term Study Visa or Standard Visitor Visa, you may not be eligible for full NHS (National Health Service) coverage. It is advisable to purchase private health insurance to cover any medical expenses during your stay.
• Emergency Care: In case of a medical emergency, you may access emergency services. However, you may still be required to pay for any medical treatment you receive outside of emergency situations.

5. Extension of Stay or Further Studies

• Extension: You are not allowed to extend a Short-Term Study Visa or Standard Visitor Visa in the UK. If you wish to stay longer or continue your studies, you must leave the UK and apply for a new visa from your home country.
• Further Studies: If you wish to pursue a different course or continue studying after completing your current course, you must apply for the appropriate visa from outside the UK. You cannot remain in the UK solely to continue your studies without the correct visa.

6. Consequences of Violating Visa Terms

If you fail to comply with the terms of your visa, including overstaying or engaging in unauthorized work, you may face:

• Visa cancellation: You may be required to leave the UK immediately.
• Future visa issues: Non-compliance may impact your ability to apply for a visa to the UK or other countries in the future.

7. Important Contacts

• UK Visas and Immigration: For any visa-related queries or changes, contact the UKVI helpline at 0300 123 2241 or visit the official website.
• College Support: For support regarding your studies, attendance, and student life, contact Oxford College of Science and Technology at info@oxfordcollege.com or call +44 (0) 7466828381.

Last Update: 21 February 2025