Based on guidance available on 16 October 2026, the main UK Student visa points to watch are the current £558 application fee, maintenance funds of £1,529 per month in London or £1,171 outside London, tighter sponsor checks for universities, restrictions affecting some applicants, and stricter biometric deadline rules. A further maintenance increase is expected to apply to applications made on or after 30 November 2026, so the date you submit your application really matters.

The UK Student visa route is still open to eligible international students aged 16 or over who have an offer from a licensed Student sponsor, a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, usually called a CAS, and who meet the financial, English language and suitability checks.

Where applicants often get caught out is assuming that one rule applies to everyone in the same way. In reality, your nationality, course level, study location, application date, dependant plans and previous UK immigration history can all affect what you need to show.

Immigration 4U helps students and families understand the UK Student visa process, check requirements before applying, and avoid common mistakes with documents, funds and timing.

Quick Answer On The New Visa Rules For Students In The UK

The current UK Student visa rules require applicants to show they have been accepted onto an eligible course by a licensed Student sponsor and can meet the route conditions. The official GOV.UK Student visa guidance remains the key source for checking the latest position before submitting an application.

The application fee is currently £558. This is separate from the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is usually paid as part of the online application. Standard decision times are generally around three weeks for applications made outside the UK and around eight weeks for applications made inside the UK, although complex cases and busy periods can take longer.

For financial evidence, the current living cost amount is £1,529 per month for study in London or £1,171 per month outside London, for up to nine months. From 30 November 2026, this is expected to increase to £1,570 per month in London and £1,203 per month outside London for applications made on or after that date, subject to the final rules in force at the time.

Which Student Visa Changes Are Already In Force?

Several important changes are already active in 2026. Some affect applicants directly, while others affect universities and other education providers that sponsor international students.

The Student Visa Fee Is Now £558

The Student visa application fee is currently £558, following an increase from 8 April 2026. This applies to main applicants and dependants where a dependant application is permitted. Applicants should remember that the visa fee is only one part of the total cost, as the Immigration Health Surcharge, tuition fees, living costs and dependant costs may also need to be budgeted for.

Universities Face Tighter Sponsor Rules

From June 2026, tougher sponsor compliance standards began applying to relevant Student sponsor assessments. Sponsors are expected to keep visa refusal rates below 5 per cent, achieve enrolment of at least 95 per cent, and meet course completion expectations, subject to the latest Home Office sponsor guidance.

This does not mean that a student will automatically be refused because their university has compliance issues. However, it can affect how carefully institutions assess CAS requests, document checks and right to study processes. A university may ask for extra information before issuing a CAS, particularly where an applicant's funds, academic history or intentions need further explanation.

The Student Visa Brake Affects Some Applicants

The phrase Student visa brake is often used to describe a Home Office restriction that can pause or limit decisions for certain groups of applicants. In 2026, this has been reported as affecting certain main applicants applying from outside the UK who are nationals of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Myanmar or Sudan. A valid CAS does not override the restriction if it applies. Existing UK immigration permission is not automatically cancelled simply because the restriction exists, but affected applicants should check the latest Home Office guidance before making any application.

Biometric Deadline Rules Are Stricter

For relevant applications made from 8 October 2026, applicants must provide biometric information within the deadline set for the first application. Varying an application does not normally extend that original biometric deadline. Missing a biometric deadline can create serious validity problems, so it is worth treating the appointment as a priority rather than something to fit in when life calms down, because life rarely does.

What Changes On 30 November 2026?

The biggest upcoming Student visa change concerns maintenance funds. This is the money you must show for living costs, separate from tuition fees and separate from any funds needed for dependants.

For applications made on or after 30 November 2026, the living cost amount is expected to rise to £1,570 per month in London and £1,203 per month outside London, for up to nine months. For a London course, that means up to £14,130 in living costs. For a course outside London, it means up to £10,827.

The important point is the application date. If you apply on 16 October 2026 for a course outside London, the current maximum living cost amount is £1,171 × 9, which is £10,539. If you apply on or after 30 November 2026 for the same type of course, the maximum becomes £1,203 × 9, which is £10,827. Tuition fees are additional unless eligible payments are already shown on your CAS and can be taken into account.

Who Can Apply For A UK Student Visa?

You can usually apply for a UK Student visa if you are aged 16 or over, have an unconditional offer from a licensed Student sponsor, and have received a CAS. The CAS is not the visa itself. It is an electronic reference issued by your education provider that confirms details such as your course, fees paid, sponsor information and study dates.

You must also meet the English language requirement, show the required funds unless an exemption applies, and satisfy immigration suitability checks. Applicants aged 16 or 17 usually need parental or legal guardian consent. Some courses, especially in science, engineering, medicine and technology related subjects, may require an ATAS certificate before the visa application is submitted.

If you want a clearer overview of the route and what a strong application normally involves, Immigration 4U's UK study visa guidance explains how the Student route works and what applicants should prepare before applying.

How Much Money Must You Show?

Most Student visa applicants must show funds for tuition fees and living costs. The tuition fee amount is normally taken from the CAS. If you have paid some tuition fees, and this is shown correctly on the CAS, that amount may reduce what you need to prove separately.

The 28 day rule is one of the most common areas where students make mistakes. If you need to provide financial evidence, the money must usually have been held for 28 consecutive days, and the closing balance must fall within the permitted time before the application date. The funds must be genuinely accessible. Shares, overdrafts, credit cards and similar arrangements are not normally accepted as substitutes for cash funds under the Student visa financial evidence rules.

Some applicants do not need to show maintenance funds, for example where they have held valid UK permission for at least 12 months immediately before applying. Other exemptions can apply, so it is sensible to check the rules for your exact situation rather than relying on a friend's application story.

Can Student Visa Holders Bring Dependants?

The dependant rules are now much more restricted than many applicants expect. Most standard taught master's students cannot bring a partner or children under the Student route. This is a major change from older expectations, and it is a frequent source of confusion.

Dependants may generally be possible where the student is government sponsored on a full time course lasting more than six months, or is studying a qualifying postgraduate research programme, such as a PhD, doctorate or another research based higher degree. A standard taught undergraduate course or taught master's course will usually not qualify.

Each dependant needs a separate application and must meet their own conditions, including financial evidence if asked for it. The dependant rules can also affect later Graduate visa planning, because family members normally need to qualify at each stage.

How Many Hours Can International Students Work?

Work permission depends on the course, sponsor type and conditions attached to the visa. Eligible full time degree level students can generally work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Eligible students below degree level may generally work up to 10 hours per week during term time.

Some students have no work permission, including many part time students. Full time work may be allowed during official vacation periods if your visa conditions allow it, but you must not go over the term time limit by combining several jobs. For example, two jobs of 10 hours each can reach the 20 hour limit. Some unpaid work, placements or internships may also count depending on the circumstances, so always check the conditions shown on your eVisa and decision notice.

What Documents Do You Need For A Student Visa?

The documents you need depend on your country of application, course, age, finances and personal circumstances. However, most applicants should prepare early because one missing document can delay the process or increase the risk of refusal.

• Valid passport or travel document
• CAS reference number from a licensed Student sponsor
• Financial evidence if you need to show tuition and living costs
• English language evidence if this has not already been confirmed
• Academic documents if requested by the sponsor or UKVI
• ATAS certificate if your course needs one
• Parental consent for applicants aged 16 or 17
• Tuberculosis certificate if your country of residence is listed
• Relationship evidence for dependants if dependant applications are allowed

Applicants extending their permission from inside the UK should also check timing carefully. If your current visa is close to expiring, Immigration 4U's article on how to extend a Student visa in the UK may help you understand the main steps before your permission ends.

What Do The Rules Mean For Students Outside London?

The maintenance amount depends on whether your course is treated as inside or outside London. This matters for many students in major university cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield and Nottingham.

Manchester is outside London for Student visa maintenance calculations. That means the current living cost figure is £1,171 per month, up to nine months, for applications made before the new maintenance figures take effect. From 30 November 2026, the outside London figure is expected to increase to £1,203 per month.

Universities outside London may also have their own CAS procedures, deposit deadlines, document checks and right to study processes. You should allow enough time for any tuition payments to be recorded correctly on your CAS and for the university to complete its internal checks. The immigration rule is national, but the university process can still affect how quickly you are ready to apply.

Graduate Visa And Post Study Planning

The Graduate visa is separate from the Student visa, but it matters when planning your UK study route. Students who successfully complete an eligible course may be able to apply after their education provider reports successful completion to the Home Office.

Applications made on or before 31 December 2026 may still fall under the two year Graduate visa period, subject to the rules in force when the application is made. From 1 January 2027, the standard Graduate visa period is expected to reduce to 18 months for relevant applications, but students should treat this as subject to final implementation and current Home Office guidance. PhD graduates have a different duration under the route rules. If staying in the UK after study is part of your plan, build this into your timeline early rather than leaving it until graduation week.

Common Student Visa Mistakes To Avoid

Common mistakes include using an outdated maintenance figure, applying before receiving a valid CAS, failing to hold funds for 28 consecutive days, assuming a taught master's allows dependants, exceeding work limits, missing a biometric deadline, or overlooking an ATAS requirement.

A CAS is important, but it does not guarantee visa approval. The Home Office can still assess finances, genuine intention, immigration history, documents and the conditions of the Student route. If you have had a refusal before, or you are worried about a weak area in your application, the Immigration 4U blog includes practical guidance that can help you understand common issues before deciding how to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The New UK Student Visa Rules In 2026?

The main 2026 points include the current £558 application fee, tighter sponsor compliance rules, biometric deadline changes, restrictions affecting certain nationalities, and expected increased maintenance funds from 30 November 2026.

Do Students Outside London Need To Show London Level Maintenance Funds?

No. If your course is outside London, you usually use the outside London maintenance figure. The current amount is £1,171 per month for up to nine months, and this is expected to rise to £1,203 per month for applications made on or after 30 November 2026.

Can I Bring My Spouse On A UK Student Visa?

Only some students can bring dependants, such as certain government sponsored students and those on qualifying postgraduate research programmes. Most standard taught master's students cannot bring a spouse under the current Student route rules.

Can I Work 20 Hours Every Week On A Student Visa?

Eligible full time degree level students can generally work up to 20 hours per week during term time, but you must check your own eVisa and decision notice. The limit applies across all work combined.

Does A CAS Guarantee Student Visa Approval?

No, a CAS is required but it does not guarantee approval. You must still meet the financial, suitability, document, course and immigration conditions that apply to your application.

You can extend a Student visa in the UK before it expires if you meet the Student route requirements, have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, usually called a CAS, and submit the online application before your current permission ends. If you are starting a new course, the course must normally begin no more than 28 days after your current visa expires, so timing matters just as much as the documents.

Many students extend because their course has been delayed, they need more time for resits or research, they are moving to a higher level course, or they have added a placement year. The process is manageable, but it is not something to leave until the final week unless you enjoy unnecessary stress with your coffee.

The key is to work backwards from your visa expiry date. You need your university to issue a CAS, you need to check whether you meet the academic progression and financial rules, and you need to complete the UKVI application before the deadline.

Immigration 4U supports students and families with UK immigration applications, including Student visa extensions, document preparation and guidance where circumstances are not straightforward.

Can You Extend a Student Visa From Inside the UK?

You may be able to extend your Student visa from inside the UK if your current immigration permission allows you to apply under the Student route. You must be in the UK with valid permission when you apply, meet the switching rules that apply to your current route, and have an unconditional offer and a CAS from your university or education provider before you submit the application.

You must also meet the Student route requirements at the time of application. These can include academic progression, course level, financial evidence and suitability checks. If you are unsure whether your planned study fits the route, professional UK study visa advice can help you understand the requirements before you commit to an application.

The official rules and procedure are set out in the GOV.UK Student visa extension guidance, which should always be checked before submitting because fees, evidence rules and application steps can change.

When Should You Apply Before Your Student Visa Expires?

You must apply before your current Student visa expires. Completing a draft form is not enough. In practical terms, you need to submit the application online, pay the relevant fees and follow the identity verification instructions before your permission ends.

You can usually apply up to three months before the new course starts, provided you meet the relevant requirements. However, your university may have its own CAS request deadline, and that internal deadline can be earlier than the Home Office deadline. Universities can be especially busy around exam boards, enrolment periods and holiday breaks, so if you are waiting for confirmation, keep chasing politely and keep a record of your messages. If your course has changed, your studies have been extended, or you need more time for research, contact your university's international student team as soon as possible.

For example, if your current visa expires on 1 December and you are starting a new course, the new course must normally begin by 29 December. Your visa application must still be submitted before 1 December. If the new course begins later than that, you may not be able to extend from inside the UK under the Student route.

The 28 Day Rule Explained Simply

The 28 day rule is one of the most important timing rules for Student visa extensions. Where you are moving to a new course, the start date on your CAS must normally be no more than 28 days after your current permission expires.

This rule is not about when UKVI makes the decision. It is about the gap between your current visa expiry date and the start date of the new course. If the gap is too long, the application may not fit the rules for applying from inside the UK, even if the course itself is genuine and the university is licensed.

If you are extending for the same course, resits, a placement year or postgraduate research, the position may be different because your sponsor will need to assess why additional permission is required. Your CAS should accurately explain the course details, dates and reason for the extension.

Which Student Visa Extension Situations Are Common?

Student visa extensions are not all the same. The reason you need more permission affects the CAS, the academic progression assessment and the evidence you may need.

If you are continuing the same course because your end date has moved, your sponsor will normally need to confirm the revised course dates. If you are progressing from an undergraduate degree to a master's degree, the new course will usually need to show academic progression. If you are repeating modules or resitting exams, an exception may apply, but your university must be satisfied that it can sponsor you.

Course transfers and changes of institution need particular care. You should not assume that a CAS from one sponsor can be used for a different institution or a substantially different course. Placement years also need to be properly reflected in the course structure, and postgraduate research extensions often require evidence that extra time is academically necessary.

Documents You May Need for a Student Visa Extension

Your CAS is the starting point because it tells UKVI what course you are studying, who is sponsoring you and what information has already been assessed. You should check every detail on the CAS before applying, including your name, passport details, course title, course dates and fees paid.

• Current passport and any identity documents requested by UKVI
• CAS reference number from your licensed student sponsor
• Evidence of current immigration status, including UKVI account or eVisa details where applicable
• Financial evidence if required, such as bank statements, official sponsorship letters or student loan documents
• Academic evidence or completion evidence if your sponsor or UKVI requires it
• ATAS certificate if your course requires Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance
• Certified translations for documents not in English or Welsh
• Dependant documents if eligible family members are applying with you

Not every student will need every document in that list. Some evidence may be covered by the CAS, and some students who have lived in the UK with valid permission for at least 12 months may benefit from financial evidence concessions, subject to the current rules.

Financial Requirements and Bank Statements

Financial evidence is one of the most common areas where Student visa applications go wrong. If you need to show funds, you may need to prove that you have enough money for outstanding tuition fees and living costs. The exact amount depends on your circumstances, your course and what is recorded on your CAS.

Where bank statements are required, funds usually need to be held for a set period before the application, commonly 28 consecutive days, and the document date must usually be recent enough for UKVI to accept it. It is completely normal to feel unsure about which documents UKVI will expect, especially if your fees have changed or your parents are helping with funds. The rules can be technical, so check the latest guidance before relying on a statement.

If you are sponsored by a government, international scholarship agency, university or other approved body, you may need a sponsorship letter instead of personal bank statements. If you are using a student loan, the loan document must meet UKVI requirements. A small wording issue can cause big problems, so review financial documents carefully.

How Much Does a Student Visa Extension Cost?

The application fee for extending or switching to a Student visa from inside the UK can change, so it is safest to check the current amount on the UKVI application system before you pay. This is the figure that matters for your application.

You will also usually need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. The total depends on the length of permission granted and the way the surcharge is calculated. Optional paid services, such as faster decisions or document checking appointments where available, may cost extra.

Do not rely on an old screenshot, social media post or friend's recent application for fee information. UK immigration charges can change without much practical warning, and the amount payable is the amount shown when you apply.

How to Apply Online Before Your Visa Expires

The Student visa extension application is made online. Before you begin, make sure your CAS has been issued, your documents are ready and you understand your deadline. Starting the form early is sensible, but it is the actual submission that matters.

You will complete the online form, pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, then prove your identity. Some applicants can use the UK Immigration ID Check app, while others may be asked to attend a biometric appointment. UKVI will tell you which route applies.

After submitting, save your confirmation, payment receipts and application reference. Your university may ask for evidence that you applied before your visa expired, especially if your existing permission ends while you are waiting for a decision.

What Happens After You Apply on Time?

If you submit a valid application before your current visa expires, your existing permission may continue while UKVI decides the application. This is often referred to as Section 3C leave. In plain English, it can protect your lawful status while the decision is pending, provided the application was made in time and remains valid.

However, this does not mean you can ignore your conditions. Your work and study conditions usually continue as they were, but you should check your current visa restrictions and your university's guidance before changing work hours, starting a different course or assuming anything has been approved.

You should also avoid travelling outside the UK or the Common Travel Area while an application made from inside the UK is pending. Travel can cause the application to be treated as withdrawn, which may create serious immigration consequences.

How Long Does a Student Visa Extension Take?

GOV.UK commonly lists the standard processing time for a Student visa application made from inside the UK as around eight weeks, but this is not a guarantee. Some applications take longer because of document checks, verification with banks or sponsors, interviews, missing information or complex immigration history.

While waiting, monitor your email, UKVI account and any messages from your university. Respond quickly if UKVI asks for further information. If your visa expires after you have made a valid application on time, do not panic, but do keep your submission evidence safe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest mistake is applying after the visa expiry date. Even being one day late can create serious problems, including overstaying and complications for future immigration applications.

Other common mistakes include waiting too long to request a CAS, assuming that an academic extension automatically extends immigration permission, ignoring the 28 day rule, submitting financial evidence that does not meet the required format, or travelling while the application is pending.

If your application has been refused before, or you are worried about the risk of refusal, it is important to understand your options quickly. Immigration 4U provides visa refusal support for people who need guidance after an unsuccessful UK immigration application.

When Another Visa Route May Be Better

Extending your Student visa is not always the only option. Depending on your plans, you may be considering the Graduate route, Skilled Worker route, a family route or another form of UK immigration permission. The right route depends on your study status, future work plans, sponsorship options and personal circumstances.

If you are comparing possible immigration routes, this overview of the main UK visa types can help you understand the broader options before taking advice on your specific case.

What to Do If Your Visa Is About to Expire

If your Student visa is close to expiring, act quickly but carefully. Confirm the exact expiry date, contact your university's immigration or compliance team, ask whether a CAS can be issued, and check whether your course dates fit the extension rules.

Do not submit a rushed application with missing or unreliable evidence unless you understand the risks. At the same time, do not wait passively for a CAS if your deadline is approaching. Keep written records of your communications with the university and seek regulated immigration advice if you are unsure what to do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I extend my Student visa after it expires?

You should apply before your current Student visa expires. A late application can create overstaying issues and may affect future UK immigration applications. If your visa has already expired, speak to your university immediately and seek immigration advice urgently. Do not assume there is a grace period or that UKVI will accept a late application.

Do I need a new CAS to extend my Student visa?

Yes, in most cases you need a new CAS from your licensed student sponsor before submitting a Student visa extension application.

Can I travel while my Student visa extension is pending?

You should not travel outside the UK or the Common Travel Area while an application made from inside the UK is pending unless you have taken advice, as travel may withdraw the application.

Do I always need bank statements?

Not always. Some students may be exempt from providing financial evidence, while others must show funds in the required format for the correct period.

Can my dependants extend their visas with me?

Eligible dependants may be able to apply at the same time or before their own permission expires, but dependant eligibility under the Student route is restricted and should be checked carefully.

If you are planning to study in the United Kingdom, you have probably come across the term “Tier 4 visa” while doing your research. Many students still use this name, even though the UK Home Office has officially changed the system. Understanding what is a Tier 4 visa in the UK is important if you want a smooth and stress free application process.

In this blog, we will explain everything you need to know in simple words. No confusing jargon, just clear and honest information for students and parents who are planning ahead.

What Is a Tier 4 Visa in the UK

So, what is a Tier 4 visa in the UK exactly? It was the visa category that allowed international students to study at UK universities, colleges, and schools for longer courses. It covered both Tier 4 (General) for adult students and Tier 4 (Child) for younger learners.

This visa allowed students to live in the UK for the full length of their course. It also gave certain rights, such as limited part time work and the ability to bring family members in some cases.

The Tier 4 visa was part of the UK’s points based immigration system. Students needed to score points based on things like an offer from a licensed institution, proof of funds, and English language ability.

Why Is It Now Called the Student Visa

The UK government replaced the old points based system with a new one in 2020. As part of this change, the Tier 4 visa was renamed the Student Visa. The core purpose stayed the same, but some rules were updated to make the process a bit more modern and flexible.

If you are applying today, you will not see the words “Tier 4” on any official form. Instead, you will apply for a Study Visa. This is simply the updated version of the same idea, just with a new name and a few improved conditions.

Many people still search using the old term, which is why it is helpful to know both names refer to the same basic route into UK education.

Who Needs This Visa

Not everyone needs a student visa to study in the UK. It depends on your nationality, your course length, and your age. Generally, you will need one if:

• You are not a UK or Irish citizen
• Your course is longer than six months
• You have an unconditional offer from a licensed UK institution
• You can prove you have enough money to support yourself

Short courses, like a summer school or a few weeks of English classes, may fall under a different visa category. It is always worth checking your specific situation before applying.

Basic Requirements for the Student Visa

The requirements have not changed too much from the old Tier 4 system. Here is what most applicants need to prepare.

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) Your university or college will issue this after you accept your offer. It contains a unique reference number that you must include in your application.

Proof of Financial Support You need to show that you can cover your tuition fees and living costs. The exact amount depends on where in the UK you will be studying, since London has higher living cost requirements.

English Language Proof Most students need to prove their English ability, unless their course or previous education already meets the requirement.

Valid Passport Your passport must be valid for the length of your stay, and you will need to submit biometric information as part of the process.

How Long Can You Stay

The length of stay depends on your course and your age. Students aged 18 and above studying a degree level course can normally stay for the length of their course plus a bit of extra time. Those on courses below degree level usually get a shorter buffer period.

Younger students on the child student route have slightly different conditions, including restrictions on part time work and different sponsor requirements.

Can You Work While Studying

Yes, in most cases. Students on a full time course at degree level or above can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term time. During holidays, many students are allowed to work full time, depending on their visa conditions.

It is important to check the specific conditions on your visa, since working beyond the allowed hours can cause serious problems with future immigration applications.

Common Mistakes Students Make

A lot of visa refusals happen because of small, avoidable errors. Some common ones include:

• Submitting incomplete financial documents
• Using outdated forms or guidance
• Missing the CAS deadline
• Providing bank statements that do not meet the required format

Taking time to double check every document before submission can save weeks of delay and unnecessary stress.

How Immigration 4U Can Help

Visa applications can feel overwhelming, especially with constant rule updates. This is where working with a trusted consultancy like Immigration 4U can make a real difference. Their team stays updated with the latest Home Office guidelines and helps students avoid common application mistakes. Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your student status, getting expert guidance can improve your chances of a smooth approval.

Conclusion

So, to sum it up, what is a Tier 4 visa in the UK? It was the original name for the visa route that allowed international students to study in the UK, now known as the Student Visa. The purpose remains the same, helping students from around the world access quality education in the UK. if you are planning your study journey, take time to understand the current requirements, prepare your documents early, and seek professional guidance if needed. A well prepared application is always your best chance of success.

FAQs

1. Is the Tier 4 visa still available?

No, the Tier 4 visa was replaced by the Student Visa in 2020. The rules are similar, but the name and a few conditions have changed.

2. Can I work full time on a student visa?

You can usually work part time during term, often up to 20 hours per week, and full time during official holidays, depending on your course level.

3. How much money do I need to show for a student visa?

The amount depends on your course location and length. Students in London generally need to show higher living costs than those outside London.

4. Can my family join me on a student visa?

This depends on your course level and the type of institution. Some postgraduate students may be eligible to bring dependants, though rules have become stricter recently.

5. Do I need an agent to apply for a UK student visa?

It is not compulsory, but getting help from a consultancy can reduce errors and improve your chances of approval, especially if your case has any complications.