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Student visa basics: what to know before you apply

An overview of the Student visa process, from your CAS to your eVisa, with links to the official guidance.

6 min readLinks to official guidance

Start with the official guidance

The rules for the Student visa are set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and can change. Always check the GOV.UK Student visa page before you act.

The usual steps

  • Get your CAS. Your university issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies once you accept an unconditional offer.
  • Check what evidence you need. This usually includes proof of money for course fees and living costs, and sometimes English language evidence or a tuberculosis test.
  • Apply online. You pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, then prove your identity.
  • Set up your eVisa. The UK is moving to digital immigration status. Create a UKVI account to view and share your status.

Where Intlgrate helps

Add your visa dates to Immigration & Settlement to get reminders. Intlgrate gives general information only. It is not legal advice.

When to get advice

If your situation is complicated (for example a previous refusal, a gap in study, or a change of course), speak to your university's international student advice team or a regulated immigration adviser.

This guide is general information, not professional, medical or legal advice. Rules and services change, so check the official source before acting.

Student visa basics: what to know before you apply | Intlgrate