<p>The UK Student Route visa (previously called Tier 4) is the immigration pathway for international students. While the application is relatively straightforward compared to other UK visa categories, errors in documentation are the most common reason for delays and refusals.</p> <h2 id="before-you-apply-the-cas">Before You Apply: The CAS</h2> <p>You cannot apply for a Student visa without a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). This is a unique reference number issued by your university after you accept an unconditional offer and pay any required deposit.</p> <p>The CAS contains:</p> <ul> <li>Your personal details</li> <li>Course details (title, level, start and end dates)</li> <li>Tuition fees paid and outstanding</li> <li>Accommodation fees (if arranged through the university)</li> <li>English language assessment</li> <li>Any ATAS clearance requirement (for certain STEM courses)</li> </ul> <p>The CAS is valid for six months but can only be used once. If your visa is refused, you’ll need a new CAS from your university.</p> <h2 id="the-application-timeline">The Application Timeline</h2> <p>Apply no earlier than six months before your course start date and no later than three weeks before. In practice, allow eight weeks from application to decision.</p> <h3 id="documents-checklist">Documents Checklist</h3> <ol> <li> <p><strong>Valid passport</strong></p> </li> <li> <p><strong>CAS reference number</strong></p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Financial evidence</strong>: Bank statements showing you’ve held sufficient funds for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before your application date. The required amount is:</p> <ul> <li>First-year tuition fees (as stated on your CAS)</li> <li>Plus living costs: GBP 1,334/month for up to 9 months if studying in London; GBP 1,023/month outside London</li> <li>Example: UCL student (London) with GBP 28,000 tuition: GBP 28,000 + (GBP 1,334 × 9 = GBP 12,006) = GBP 40,006 total</li> </ul> </li> <li> <p><strong>TB test certificate</strong>: Required for applicants from certain countries, including China and Hong Kong. The test must be from an approved clinic.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>ATAS certificate</strong> (if required): Certain STEM courses require Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>English language evidence</strong>: Usually satisfied by your CAS, but may need a separate IELTS certificate.</p> </li> <li> <p><strong>Parental consent</strong> (if under 18): Letter from parents/guardians consenting to your study and living arrangements.</p> </li> </ol> <h2 id="the-financial-evidence-requirement">The Financial Evidence Requirement</h2> <p>This is where most refusals happen. Key rules:</p> <ul> <li>Funds must be in a bank account in your name, or your parent’s name with a letter of support</li> <li>The 28-day period must be unbroken—the balance must not drop below the required amount on any single day</li> <li>Bank statements must be original documents (or certified copies), translated into English if necessary</li> <li>Joint accounts are acceptable only if you’re one of the named account holders</li> </ul> <h2 id="the-application-process">The Application Process</h2> <ol> <li><strong>Complete the online form</strong> at gov.uk/student-visa</li> <li><strong>Pay the application fee</strong>: GBP 490 (standard service)</li> <li><strong>Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)</strong>: GBP 1,035 per year. For a 3-year course, this is GBP 3,105 on top of the application fee.</li> <li><strong>Book a biometrics appointment</strong>: At a Visa Application Centre</li> <li><strong>Submit documents</strong>: Most applications now use the ID Check app for biometrics; some still require in-person submission</li> </ol> <h2 id="interview-preparation">Interview Preparation</h2> <p><img src="https://img.studygb.com/留学/uk-student-visa-tier4-guide-2026-1880x1253.jpg" alt="studygb-com 配图"></p> <p>Some applicants are called for a credibility interview, conducted via video link at the Visa Application Centre. Questions focus on:</p> <ul> <li>Your reasons for choosing this course and university</li> <li>Your understanding of the course content</li> <li>Your plans after graduation</li> <li>How you’ll fund your studies and living costs</li> </ul> <p>The interview is not a test of English fluency, but of genuine student intent. Be specific about your course—know the modules, the teaching methods, and why you chose this university over others.</p> <h2 id="after-approval">After Approval</h2> <p>If approved, you’ll receive:</p> <ul> <li>A vignette (sticker) in your passport valid for 90 days</li> <li>A decision letter with your BRP collection details</li> </ul> <p>You must enter the UK within the vignette’s validity period. After arrival, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from the designated Post Office within 10 days.</p> <h2 id="key-deadlines-for-international-students">Key Deadlines for International Students</h2> <ul> <li>You can arrive in the UK up to 1 month before your course starts (if your course is 6+ months)</li> <li>You must enrol at your university by the latest start date on your CAS</li> <li>Working hours: 20 hours/week during term time, full-time during holidays (for degree-level study)</li> </ul> <h2 id="common-reasons-for-refusal">Common Reasons for Refusal</h2> <p><img src="https://img.studygb.com/留学/uk-student-visa-tier4-guide-2026-1880x1254.jpg" alt="studygb-com 配图"></p> <ol> <li><strong>Insufficient financial evidence</strong>: The most common single cause. Double-check your 28-day period.</li> <li><strong>Inconsistent information</strong>: Discrepancies between your application form, CAS, and supporting documents</li> <li><strong>Credibility concerns</strong>: Inability to explain your course choice or study plans at interview</li> <li><strong>Missing TB certificate</strong>: Surprisingly common—book your TB test well in advance</li> </ol>