UK 🇬🇧 Student Visa

UK Student Visa for Indian Students

The UK is the second-most popular destination for Indian students. The student visa (formerly Tier 4) is straightforward if you know every requirement — this guide covers all of them, start to finish.

£490
Application fee
£776
IHS (per year)
3–6 weeks
Processing time
2 years (Graduate Route)
Post-study work

UK student visa — 6-step process for Indians

Each step must be completed in order. Applying without a CAS or missing the TB test are the two most common mistakes Future Link prevents.

01
Secure a CAS number from your university

After accepting your offer, your UK university issues a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) — a unique reference number valid for 6 months. You cannot apply without it.

02
Prove English proficiency

Most UK universities require IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 or equivalent. TOEFL iBT 80+ or PTE Academic 58+ are also widely accepted. Check your specific course requirements.

03
Show financial evidence

You must show 9 consecutive months of bank statements covering your tuition + £1,334/month for London or £1,023/month for other cities (one full year equivalent). Statements must be in your name or a parent/guardian's.

04
Apply online via UKVI

Apply at gov.uk/student-visa. Pay the application fee (£490 for applications outside UK) + IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge: £776/year for students). Book a biometric appointment at VFS Global.

05
Biometrics at VFS Global India

Submit biometrics (fingerprints + photo) at a VFS Global Application Centre. Processing typically takes 3–6 weeks after biometrics. Apply at least 3 months before your course start date.

06
Receive BRP card in the UK

Your visa vignette sticker is valid for 30 days to travel. Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from your university or a designated Post Office within 10 days of arrival.

UK student visa documents from India

All documents must be current, authentic, and in English or with a certified English translation.

Valid passport (with at least 6 months beyond your course end date)
CAS number from your UK university
IELTS / TOEFL / PTE score report (meeting your course minimum)
Bank statements showing 9 months of sufficient funds
Parental financial undertaking letter (if funds are in parent's name)
ATAS certificate (if required for your subject — most science/engineering postgrad programs)
TB test certificate from an UKVI-approved clinic in India
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
English translation of any documents not in English
Passport-size photographs (as per UKVI specifications)
Application fee (£490) + IHS (£776/year)
Graduate Route: 2 years of open work rights after graduation

UK's Graduate Route visa gives you 2 years (3 years for PhD) to work in any role at any salary after you finish your degree. No job offer needed to apply. This makes the UK one of the most flexible post-study destinations for Indian graduates.

Get expert UK visa guidance

Future Link's UK visa specialists handle everything — university shortlisting, CAS coordination, financials structuring, ATAS clearance, TB test appointments, and biometric booking.

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