Studying in UK
Tier 4 Student Visa
Overview
As of March 2009 adults who desire to study in the UK must apply via the Tier 4 Student Visa.
The Tier 4 student visa is directly replacing the UK Study Visa and allows an adult who meets the requirements to study in the UK with one of many licenced sponsors on the Tier 4 register of sponsors.
Benefits
The Tier 4 Student Visa service grants a UK study permit enabling the applicant to study in the UK with a vision to attaining a recognized qualification via studying with a government approved university or college.
The Tier 4 Student Visa service in itself does not constitude a route to settlement, it does not confer Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK (ILR) often known as pernament dwelling or residence and it will not lead to the prospect of becoming a UK citizen trough British Naturalitation.
However, a Tier 4 Student visa may permit you to change to another UK immigrationfacility without leaving the country (upon seccessful completion of your course).
If your course lasts less than 6 months, you may possibly be entitled to enter the country under a UK Visit Visa (Travel Visa or Tourist Visa). Studying in the
Duration
There are no set boundaries for a Tier 4 Student Visa for immigration to the
In some cases, a study visa extension might be granted by applying for Further Leave to Remain (FLR) where applicants intend to pursue completion of their course with another course of study.
You may be able to stay in
Eligibility
The Tier 4 Student Visa route is under a points based system (PBS). Any adults who are applying to study abroad within the
1) Have a proven track record in studying before coming to the
2) Have recognised qualifications equivalent to National Qualification Framework (NQF) in the
3) Produce documents used to obtain an offer from the university or college sponsoring, such as qualification certificates.
4) Produce evidence of sufficient funds to pass a maintenance test.
To be eligible to travel to the
» Visa letter from education provider: 30 points
» Maintenance fees to cover course fees and living expenses: 10 points
A visa letter is provided from the applicants university or college they intend to enrol in as they will be the immigration sponsor, there should be information included about the applicant, the course, their finances as well as their licensed sponsor. The licensed sponsor is the college or university that the applicant has chosen to enrol with.
Changes to student applications from Feb 2010
From 22 February 2010, any student who applies by post or at one of our public enquiry offices, to study in the UK under Tier 4 of the points-based system must possess a confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) from their prospective sponsor.
You will not be able to apply under Tier 4 using a visa letter from that date, even if the visa letter was issued before 22 February 2010.
Until 21 February 2010, you can continue to apply under Tier 4 using a visa letter, even if your course of study will start after 22 February 2010.
Employment
Unlike a UK Visit Visa, or travel visa application, applicants for study permits may take part-time or holiday work but must not engage in the following.
» Work more than 20 hours a week during term time, excluding holiday periods, unless it is a work placement or part of a study program and the educational establishment agrees.
» carry out business, be self-employed, or provide services as a professional.
» Work full-time in a permanent job.
Also upon completion of the course being studied and dependent on what qualification has been gained, the candidate may be eligible to switch to the Tier 1 Post Study Work Visa.