Visa Guide: India to United Kingdom

Everything you need to know about obtaining a student visa for United Kingdom.

Disclaimer: This guide reflects publicly available information current to early 2026 and is provided as a starting point for your research. Visa policies, fees, biometric collection sites, and processing times change frequently and can differ by post. Before you spend money or book travel, verify every number and document on the destination country's official immigration or consulate website, or consult a licensed immigration lawyer. GlobalPath does not file applications on your behalf and is not a substitute for official guidance.

Overview

## Who this is for You have an unconditional offer from a UK university or college that holds a Student sponsor licence and you need the Student visa. India is the second largest source country for UK Student visas after China, with strong representation across Russell Group postgraduate programmes. ## Process at a glance 1. Accept your unconditional offer and pay the tuition deposit if required. 2. Receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the sponsor (usually 6 to 8 weeks before course start). 3. Complete the Student visa application on gov.uk, declaring the CAS reference. 4. Pay the visa fee (GBP 524 from outside the UK) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) at GBP 776 per year of course. 5. Book biometrics at a VFS Global centre in India (Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, and others). 6. Attend biometrics with your supporting documents. 7. Wait for decision (3 weeks priority, 2 to 8 weeks standard). 8. On approval, receive a 90-day vignette in your passport; your eVisa or BRP becomes available after arrival. ## ATAS for postgraduate STEM Some postgraduate science, engineering, and technology programmes require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate before you apply. Your CAS will state whether ATAS is required. Apply for ATAS 4 to 6 weeks before your visa application; it is free but slow. ## Documents and the 28-day rule UKVI's financial requirement is strict: the required funds must be in your account, or a parent's account with a consent letter, for 28 consecutive days, with the most recent statement no more than 31 days old at the date of application. A balance dipping below the required amount even briefly resets the 28-day clock. Use a fixed deposit or stable savings account, not a working account that fluctuates with payroll deposits. ## Credibility and refusals Indian Student visa approval rates are high (typically above 95%), but refusals cluster around: financial documentation that does not strictly meet 28-day requirements, ATAS not obtained when required, and discrepancies between the CAS and supporting documents. UKVI does not routinely interview Indian applicants but reserves the right to call you for a video credibility interview.

Required Documents

  • Valid Indian passport (with at least one blank page)(Required)
  • Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference(Required)
  • Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate from an IOM-approved clinic(Required)Required for all Indian applicants; valid 6 months
  • Academic transcripts and certificates listed on CAS(Required)
  • English proficiency evidence (IELTS for UKVI or as listed on CAS)(Required)
  • Bank statements showing required funds held for 28 consecutive days(Required)
  • ATAS certificateRequired for certain postgraduate STEM programmes; CAS will tell you
  • Tuberculosis test result printout(Required)
  • Visa application fee receipt(Required)
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment receipt(Required)
  • Biometrics appointment confirmation (VFS Global)(Required)
  • Tuition deposit receipt (if any)
  • Sponsor letter and bank statements (if parent or guardian sponsoring)
  • Recent passport-size photo (UK biometric standard)(Required)

Work Rights

During term time you may work up to 20 hours per week if your course is at degree level (RQF 6) or above, and up to 10 hours per week for courses below degree level. Full-time work is allowed during scheduled vacation periods. You cannot be self-employed, work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer, or fill a permanent full-time vacancy. After graduation, the Graduate Route gives 2 years of unsponsored work rights (3 years for PhD), valuable for transitioning to Skilled Worker sponsorship.

Quick reference

Processing Time
Standard processing from India is 3 to 8 weeks after biometrics. Priority service (additional GBP 500) typically returns a decision in 5 working days. Super Priority (additional GBP 1,000) targets next working day. Apply no earlier than 6 months before your course start date.
Application fee
Student visa application from outside the UK: GBP 524. IHS: GBP 776 per year of course (paid upfront in full). TB test: approximately INR 5,000 to 6,500 at IOM clinics. Priority processing: additional GBP 500 if available. Approximate; verify current amounts on gov.uk before paying.
Financial Proof
You must show enough money to pay your course fees (less any deposit already paid) plus living costs for up to 9 months. Living costs are GBP 1,483 per month if studying in London and GBP 1,136 per month outside London. Funds must be in your account or a parent or legal guardian's account (with their consent letter), held for 28 consecutive days, with the most recent statement no more than 31 days old at submission. The 28-day rule is strict; one day below threshold during the window resets the clock. A fixed deposit certificate is the cleanest evidence; salary or savings accounts that fluctuate are higher risk. Approximate; verify current amounts on gov.uk.
Student Visa
Temporary Residence

The primary visa type for international students wishing to study in United Kingdom. This visa allows full-time enrollment at an accredited educational institution.

Visit official visa information

Standard
4 - 8 weeks
Expedited
2 - 3 weeks (where available)

Apply at least 3 months before your program start date. Embassy processing times vary by location and season.

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You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses in United Kingdom for at least one academic year.

Minimum: $20,000 - $40,000

Accepted Forms

  • Personal bank statements (last 3-6 months)
  • Sponsor's bank statements with affidavit of support
  • Scholarship award letter
  • Education loan approval letter
  • Government sponsorship documentation

Explore scholarships to help fund your studies

Required

Health insurance is mandatory for international students in United Kingdom. Most institutions require proof of coverage before enrollment.

Coverage Options

  • University-sponsored health plan
  • Private international student insurance
  • Government health insurance scheme (if eligible)

Estimated cost: $500 - $3,000/yr

During Study
Limited part-time work permitted during term (typically 20 hours/week)
After Graduation
Post-study work visa may be available (duration varies by country)
Restrictions
Must maintain valid student status. Employment must not interfere with academic obligations. Some countries require a separate work permit.

Embassy & Consulate Contact

Contact the nearest United Kingdom embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements and to schedule your visa interview.

Find your nearest embassy

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate of your destination country before applying.