Why a UK Student Visa Matters for Indian Students

To study in the UK, you must apply for a Student Route Visa, which was previously known as the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa. This visa permits Indian students to pursue full-time studies at recognized institutions for courses lasting longer than six months. Typically, the processing time is around 3-4 weeks, so it’s essential to apply with the correct documents well ahead of time.

To assist you in this process, here’s a comprehensive checklist of the documents needed to apply for your UK student visa.

Documents Checklist for UK Student Visa

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a vital document that confirms your admission to a UK university. Once you accept your offer, the university will issue your CAS, which includes an electronic reference number. This number is necessary to complete your visa application.

Tip for Indian students: Make sure you provide accurate details to the university so that your CAS is issued without delay.

Valid Passport

Your passport is one of the most essential documents for your visa application. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your intended date of travel to the UK and has at least two blank pages.

Pro Tip: If your passport is about to expire, renew it before applying for your visa. Having your previous passports with past UK or other international visas may also strengthen your application.

Proof of Financial Support

To study in the UK, you must prove that you have enough money to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. For Indian students, this is a crucial step, and it's important to have the right financial documents.

The minimum amount for living expenses (also called maintenance funds) is:

• £1,483 (Rs 1.63 lakh) per month if your university is in London.
• £1,136 (Rs 1.25 lakh) per month if your university is outside London. at IFM

You must show that this money has been in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days. You can provide:

• Bank statements.
• Education loans sanctioned from recognized banks. at IFM
• Letters from financial sponsors. at IFM

Proof of English Language Proficiency

Most UK universities and visa authorities require Indian students to prove their English language proficiency. Common tests include IELTS or TOEFL, with specific score requirements depending on your course and university.

Tip: Some students may be exempt if they completed their previous degree in English or if they come from an English-speaking region recognized by UK authorities. Always check with your university about their specific requirements.

Academic Documents

Ensure you have the original copies of all relevant academic documents, as these are required to support your application. These include:

• Your degree certificates.
• Academic transcripts.

• Relevant mark sheets and certificates of qualification (such as class 12 certificates for undergraduate courses).

Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results

Indian students applying for a UK visa must provide a Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate. The test must be done at a clinic approved by the UK Home Office, and the certificate is valid for 6 months.

Pro Tip: Schedule your TB test well in advance to avoid delays in your visa process.

Visa Application Fee Receipt

After completing the online application, you need to pay the visa application fee, which is currently £490. Keep a copy of the fee receipt as proof of payment, which will be required during your visa appointment.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Payment

The UK requires international students to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to access the National Health Service (NHS). For Indian students, this charge is typically £776 per year of your visa. After payment, you’ll receive a reference number that must be included in your visa application.

Additional Documents for Indian Students

Consent Letter from Parents (if under 18)

If you are under 18, the UK visa authorities require a parental consent letter confirming that your parents or guardians approve of your plans to study abroad. This is especially important for Indian students who are minors.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate (for certain courses)

Some postgraduate courses, particularly in scientific and engineering fields, require an ATAS certificate. Indian students applying for courses in these areas must secure this certificate before applying for their visa.

Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) Appointment Confirmation

Once your visa is approved, you will need to collect a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) when you arrive in the UK. This must be collected within 10 days of arrival at a designated post office.

Prepare Early, Remain Confident!

Applying for a UK student visa can feel a tad bit overwhelming, but with the right documents and preparation, you can successfully navigate the process. At Edugo Abroad, we specialize in helping Indian students gather all the necessary documents and meet visa requirements, making their journey to study abroad in the UK as smooth as possible. Reach out and let us help you set sails for the British Isles!