Visa Guide
UK Student Visa (CAS) Requirements 2025 — Complete Step-by-Step Guide
June 2025 · 8 min read · By Alone Walker's Overseas
Getting a UK Student Visa is one of the most important steps in your study abroad journey. With the right preparation, most Indian students get their visa approved without any issues. This guide covers everything you need to know for 2025.
What is the UK Student Visa?
The UK Student visa (formerly called the Tier 4 visa) allows you to study at a UK university for the duration of your course. It replaced the old system in 2021 and is now the standard route for international students.
To apply, your university must be a licensed Student sponsor and will issue you a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) — a unique reference number you use to apply.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Receive your university offer letter — unconditional offer required
- Pay your tuition deposit — usually £2,000–£5,000
- Receive your CAS number — issued by university, valid for 6 months
- Arrange finances — show funds in bank for 28 consecutive days
- Book and give biometrics — at VFS Global centre in India
- Apply online — on the UK Visas and Immigration portal
- Await decision — typically 3 weeks from biometrics
Documents Required
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity beyond course end)
- CAS reference number from your university
- Bank statements (28 consecutive days — see financial requirement below)
- English language test results (IELTS / PTE / TOEFL)
- Academic transcripts and certificates (10th, 12th, degree)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results from approved clinic
- Proof of accommodation (if required by university)
- ATAS certificate (for certain courses in sensitive subjects)
Financial Requirement — How Much Money You Need
This is where many students get confused. You must show that you can cover your tuition fees AND living costs for up to 9 months (called the "maintenance requirement").
| Requirement | Amount (2025) |
|---|
| Living costs — London | £1,334/month × 9 = £12,006 |
| Living costs — Outside London | £1,023/month × 9 = £9,207 |
| Tuition fees (first year, if not yet paid) | As shown on your CAS |
| Total funds needed (approx.) | ₹20–35 lakhs typically |
💡 Important: The 28-Day Rule
The money must be sitting in your (or parent's) bank account for 28 consecutive days before you apply. The date of the statement must be within 31 days of your visa application. Don't move the money in and out — it must stay there.
IHS Surcharge — NHS Healthcare Fee
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) gives you access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) during your stay. You pay this upfront when applying for the visa.
- Rate: £776 per year (2024–25 rate)
- For a 2-year Masters: approx. £1,552
- For a 3-year Bachelors: approx. £2,328
- Students from some countries get a discount — India currently pays full rate
Visa Fee
- Applying from outside UK: £490
- Priority service: additional £500
- Super priority (next day): additional £800
TB Test
All Indian applicants must take a tuberculosis (TB) test at an approved clinic before applying. This is a simple chest X-ray and the results are valid for 6 months. NIMS Medicity and Apollo are approved centres in Hyderabad.
Common Rejection Reasons (and How to Avoid Them)
⚠️ Top Reasons UK Student Visas Get Rejected
- Bank balance not maintained for full 28 days
- Funds deposited suddenly — looks like borrowed money
- Gap in studies not properly explained
- CAS expired before application submitted
- Inconsistencies between documents and application form
- TB test from unapproved clinic
How Long Does It Take?
- Standard: 3 weeks after biometrics appointment
- Priority: 5 working days
- Super Priority: Next working day
We recommend applying at least 6–8 weeks before your course starts.
When Can You Apply?
You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts if applying from outside the UK. Most students apply 2–3 months before their intake date.
Need Help With Your UK Visa?
Our counsellors have helped 150+ students get their UK student visa approved. We review your documents, prepare your bank statement letter, and guide you through every step.
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