Complete Guide for Indian Students (2026 Updated)
Applying for a UK Student Visa is a crucial step for Indian students planning to study in the UK. Understanding the exact UK student visa requirements helps avoid delays, rejections, and last-minute stress. The UK has a transparent visa system, but every document and rule must be followed carefully.
This guide explains all the requirements for a UK Student Visa, including documents, financial proof, and eligibility criteria, updated for 2026 admissions.
What Is a UK Student Visa?
The UK Student Visa (previously Tier 4) allows international students to:
- Study full-time at a UK-approved university
- Work part-time during studies
- Apply for the 2-Year PSW (Post Study Work) visa after graduation
1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
A CAS letter is mandatory for a UK Student Visa.
You must have:
- An unconditional offer from a UK Home Office–approved university
- CAS issued after paying the required tuition deposit
The CAS contains your:
- Course details
- Tuition fee information
- Course start and end dates
👉 Without CAS, you cannot apply for a UK student visa.
2. Valid Passport
You must have:
- A valid Indian passport
- At least one blank page for visa stamping
Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your course.
3. Proof of Funds (Financial Requirements)
Indian students must show sufficient funds to cover:
Tuition Fees
- First-year tuition fee (as mentioned on CAS)
Living Expenses (Maintenance Funds – 9 months)
- London: £1,334 × 9 months = £12,006
- Outside London: £1,023 × 9 months = £9,207
Funds must:
- Be in your bank account (or parent/sponsor)
- Be maintained for 28 consecutive days
- Be shown before the visa application date
4. English Language Requirement (IELTS or MOI)
You must prove English proficiency through:
- IELTS / PTE / TOEFL, or
- MOI (Medium of Instruction), if accepted by the university
👉 IELTS is not mandatory if your university accepts MOI and issues CAS accordingly.
5. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate
Indian students must submit:
- A TB test certificate from a UK-approved medical center
The TB certificate:
- Is mandatory
- Is valid for 6 months
6. Academic Documents
You need to provide:
- Degree certificates
- Mark sheets / transcripts
- Offer letter from the university
These documents must match the details mentioned in your CAS.
7. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is mandatory.
- Cost: £776 per year
- Allows access to the UK’s NHS healthcare system
The IHS must be paid online during the visa application.
8. UK Student Visa Application Fee
- Visa fee: £490
- Paid online while submitting the application
Optional priority services are available at additional cost.
9. Biometrics at VFS
You must:
- Book a biometric appointment
- Submit fingerprints & photograph
- Visit the nearest VFS UK Visa Application Centre
10. Genuine Student Requirement (Credibility Interview)
Some students may be asked to attend:
- A UK credibility interview
Questions are usually about:
- Course choice
- University selection
- Career plans
- Financial background
Clear and honest answers are essential.
Common Reasons for UK Student Visa Rejection
- Insufficient or incorrect financial proof
- Mismatch between CAS and documents
- Poor interview responses
- Fake or incomplete documents
Professional guidance helps reduce these risks.
How i20 VISA Consultants Help with UK Student Visa Requirements
At i20 VISA Consultants, we support Indian students with:
- CAS-based document checklist
- Financial calculation & bank guidance
- IELTS-free admission support (MOI)
- Interview preparation
- End-to-end UK student visa filing
📍 i20 VISA Consultants | Hyderabad | Pan India
📞 +91 90101 29782
🌐 www.bestvisaconsultants.in
👉 FREE counselling & profile evaluation