UK Child and Student study visas

The Student Route is open to EU/EEA and Swiss students as well as international students.

• EU/EEA and Swiss students with Pre-settled or Settled status do not require a visa, otherwise a visa is required through the Student route.
• EU/EEA and Swiss students can visit the UK for up to 6 months, without applying for a visa and may participate in short term study.
• All students applying through the Student route will need to demonstrate they meet the required 70 points which will be achieved by demonstrating their offer from an approved educational institution, speak English and are able to support themselves financially during their studies in the UK. In addition Under 18s need to demonstrate they have permission of their parents and suitable care arrangements are in place in the UK.
• Child Student and Student visas cost £524 and take ~
  • from outside the UK - 3 weeks to be processed - you can apply up to 6 months before your course starts
  • from inside the UK -  8 weeks to be processed - you can only apply up to 3 months before your course starts and must apply before your current visa expires.
• The Student Immigration Health Surcharge - £776 per year of visa – is also paid with the visa application and provides access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) on generally the same basis as UK permanent residents.
• Students 15 years and under (generally EU/EEA passport holders) may be invited to use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app on their phone to confirm their ID whereas non EU/EEA students and those aged 16+ may be required to attend an interview.
• University students will apply through the Graduate route and on completion of their UK undergraduate or masters degrees will be able to stay for 2 years and those who have completed a PhD can stay for 3 years; making it easier for the best international graduates to secure skilled jobs in the UK.

Charges with effect from 1st May 2025.