Student Visas

UK student visas allow non-UK nationals to study full-time at a recognised UK educational institution. If you have an offer from a licensed sponsor and meet certain eligibility requirements — including English language and maintenance funds — you can apply for a visa to pursue your academic or vocational goals in the UK.

At Mowbray Advisory, we provide clear, OISC-regulated advice to help students and their families understand the student route, prepare strong supporting documents, and complete the application with confidence.

What is a Student Visa?

A Student Visa (previously known as the Student Tier 4 visa) allows you to come to the UK to study at a:

  • University

  • College

  • Recognised training provider

To be eligible, you must have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor and meet specific requirements set by the UK Home Office.

Who Can Apply for a Student Visa?

You may be eligible if:

  • You have an unconditional offer from a licensed UK education provider

  • You are aged 16 or over (different rules for younger students apply)

  • You can demonstrate that you can support yourself financially

  • You meet the English language requirement

  • You intend to study full-time

Each application is assessed on its individual facts, and missing or unclear evidence is a common cause of delays or refusals.

Key Requirements

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

A CAS is a unique reference number provided by your UK school or university, confirming that you have been offered a place on an eligible course.

Financial Requirements

You must show that you have sufficient funds to pay your course fees and support yourself while in the UK, without needing recourse to public funds.

English Language Requirement

Most applicants must meet a minimum English language standard, usually verified through an approved English test.

Course and Sponsor Conditions

Your course must be full-time, and your sponsor must be on the UKVI sponsor list.

How Long Can You Stay?

Depending on your course length:

  • Short courses may allow a visa for the duration of study

  • Degree programmes usually allow stay for the duration of the course plus a short grace period

  • You may be eligible to stay longer if progressing to further study or certain post-study work routes

For example, the Graduate Visa allows eligible students to remain in the UK after completing their degree to work or look for work.

👉 (You could link here to Graduate visas if you build that page.)

Application Process — Overview

While student visa applications are primarily online, key stages include:

  1. Receiving your CAS from a licensed sponsor

  2. Gathering supporting evidence (funds, passport, English test)

  3. Completing the online application form

  4. Submitting biometric information

  5. Waiting for a decision from UK Visas & Immigration

Processing times can vary by country and time of year.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Student visa applications are often delayed or refused due to:

  • Incomplete financial evidence

  • Incorrect or missing CAS information

  • Failing to meet English language requirements

  • Unclear documentation for dependants (if applicable)

We can help you spot and fix these issues before submission.

How We Can Help

We support students throughout the entire process — including:

  • Eligibility assessment

  • CAS review and preparation guidance

  • Document organisation and submission checks

  • Application completion and review

  • Post-decision support

You’ll work directly with your adviser throughout your case, with clear communication and practical advice.

Table of Contents

Services

Sponsor Licence

Work Visas

Speak to an Immigration Adviser

If you’re planning to apply for a Student Visas and want to avoid unnecessary delays or common pitfalls, we can help.
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