Student visas
I am planning to study in the UK - what visa should I apply for, VISITOR STUDENT or STUDENT?
Confused about which student visa to apply for? The following may help you.
VISITOR STUDENT - check for the fee
- For courses lasting less than six months, such as:
- Short term English language courses, e.g. 8-12 week or even 4-5 month courses
- Work related training, e.g. 5 day course or development workshop
- You must be 18 or over to apply
- There is no provision for employment or for extending this type of visa in the UK.
Please see the sample of how to properly fill in the application form for Visitor Student.
See visa guidance on VISITORS for more details.
OR
STUDENT - check for the fee
- For courses lasting longer than six months, such as:
- Degree programmes
- 1 year Diploma courses
- Sandwich courses (Combined duration more than six-months)
See visa guidance on STUDENTS for more details.
Students please note. If you are aged 18 or over and intend to undertake a course of less than six months duration you are eligible to apply for entry clearance as a Student Visitor. If you wish to apply under this category please ensure you click the "Visitor" category on the Visas4UK website, followed by "Student Visit". If you are below the age of 18 and intend to undertake a course of less than six months duration you may apply as a "Child Visitor". Again please click the "Visitor" category followed by "Child Visit". Note that if you are under the age of 18 you must show evidence of parental consent for your travel, and show that arrangements are in place for your care whilst you are in the UK under the Child Visitor rules.
