UK Short-Term Student Visas
This document provides essential information for UK students applying for short-term student visas to study in the United Kingdom. It covers both visa types available for short courses: the Standard Visitor Visa (up to 6 months) and the Short-Term Study Visa (6 to 11 months for English language courses).
Proof of Funds
If you are applying for a UK Short-Term Study Visa to attend an English language course for up to 11 months, you must show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. This document explains how much money you need, and what documents you must prepare.
UK Short-Term Student Visas Overview
1. Standard Visitor Visa for Short-Term Study (Up to 6 Months)
Purpose: For students (aged 18 or over) undertaking short courses up to
6 months at an accredited UK institution.
Key Features:
- Valid for a maximum of 6 months
- No work allowed (paid or unpaid)
- Cannot extend or switch visa in the UK
- No dependants allowed
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be accepted on a course at an accredited UK institution
- Must demonstrate the intention to leave the UK after the course
- Must show sufficient funds for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses
- Must apply from outside the UK
Fees:
- Visa Fee: £115
- No Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) required
Documents Required:
- Valid passport
- Letter of acceptance from the UK institution
- Proof of finances (bank statements or sponsor letter)
- Accommodation and travel arrangements
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable)
2. Short-Term Study Visa for English Language Course (6 to 11 Months)
Purpose: For students aged 18 or older who want to study an English language course for more than 6 months and up to 11 months.
Key Features:
- Stay permitted for course duration plus up to 30 days (maximum 11 months)
- Only English language study is permitted
- No work allowed
- Cannot switch or extend visa in the UK
- No dependants allowed
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be accepted on an English-only course by an accredited UK provider
- Must apply from outside the UK
- Must demonstrate sufficient funds and return travel plans
- TB test required if applicable
Fees:
- Visa Fee: £214
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776
Documents Required:
- Valid passport
- Confirmation letter from the English course provider
- Proof of financial support
- Travel and accommodation plan
- TB test results (if required)
- Parental consent documents (if under 18)
Proof of Funds Overview
1. How Much Money You Need
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires proof that you can cover your living expenses while studying in the UK. In addition to living costs, you must also include any outstanding tuition fees when calculating your total required funds.
| Where You Will Stay | Amount per Month | up to 6 Months | For 11 Months |
|---|---|---|---|
| In London | £1,334 | £8,004 + any outstanding course fees | £14,674 + any outstanding course fees |
| Outside London | £1,023 | £6,138 + any outstanding course fees | £11,253 + any outstanding course fees |
You must show that you have held this money in a bank account for at least 28 consecutive days.
2. Tuition Fees
You must also show proof of your tuition fees for the course you will attend in the UK:
- If you have already paid the full tuition fees, include the payment receipt or confirmation letter from the college or training provider.
- If part of your fees is still outstanding, provide an official invoice or statement from the institution showing the balance due.
- Your total available funds (living expenses + outstanding tuition fees) must be clearly shown in your bank account.
3. Documents You Must Prepare
You must provide the following financial documents with your visa application:
-
If you are funding yourself:
- Official bank statements showing your name, account number, and balance.
- The funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days.
- The statement must be no older than 31 days from the date of application.
-
If your parent or guardian is sponsoring you:
- Bank statements of the sponsor (same rules as above).
- A signed sponsorship letter from them.
- Your birth certificate (or a legal document showing the relationship).
- A copy of your sponsor’s passport or national ID.
4. Optional Supporting Documents
To strengthen your application, you may also include:
- Proof of paid accommodation in the UK (if applicable).
- Return flight ticket or travel reservation.
- Receipt of paid course fees (if applicable).
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Visitor Visa (Up to 6 months) | Short-Term Study Visa (6–11 months) |
|---|---|---|
| Course Type | Any short course | English Language only |
| Age Requirement | 18+ | 18+ |
| Max Stay | 6 months | 11 months |
| IHS Surcharge Required | No | Yes (£776) |
| Visa Fee | £115 | £214 |
| Work Rights | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Switchable in UK | No | No |
| Dependants | Not allowed | Not allowed |
Student Visa Application Checklist
General Documents:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Passport-sized photographs (if required)
- Visa application form (online submission)
Course-Related:
- Offer letter / Confirmation of Acceptance
- Full course details (name, duration, fees)
Financial Evidence:
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds
- Sponsor letter (if applicable)
Accommodation & Travel:
- Accommodation arrangements (confirmation/letter)
- Travel booking details (flight itinerary etc.)
Medical:
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if required by your country)
Under 18 (if applicable):
- Parental consent letter
- Proof of care arrangement during stay
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