UK Student Visa Guidance

Everything Pakistani students need to know about applying for a UK student visa. Get expert guidance on requirements, documents, and application process.

UK Student Visa Requirements

To apply for a Student visa (previously Tier 4), you'll need to meet the following requirements:

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

A CAS is provided by your university after you accept an unconditional offer and pay the 50% of the tuition fee.

Financial Requirements

Proof of funds to cover tuition fees and living costs (£1,334/month for London, £1,023/month elsewhere) for up to 9 months.

English Language Proficiency

IELTS for UKVI with minimum scores depending on your course level (usually 5.5-7.0).

Tuberculosis Test

Pakistani citizens need a TB test from an approved clinic.

Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK.

28 Days Bank Statement

You must provide bank statements showing you have sufficient funds maintained for at least 28 consecutive days.

Important Notes for Pakistani Students

  • Apply for your visa at least 3 months before your course start date.
  • The visa application fee is £490 for students applying from outside the UK.
  • You'll also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (£776 per year).
  • Biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) will be collected at a visa application center.
  • The standard processing time is 3 weeks, but you can pay for priority service (5-7 working days).

Required Documents Checklist

Make sure you have all these documents ready before applying for your UK student visa:

  • Valid passport
  • CAS letter from your university
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements)
  • English language test results
  • TB test certificate
  • Academic qualifications mentioned in your CAS
  • Passport-sized photographs

Pro Tip

Make sure all your documents are translated into English by a certified translator if they're not already in English. Keep both original and translated copies.

English Language Requirements

You'll need to prove your English language ability with an approved test. Here are the most common options for Pakistani students:

IELTS for UKVI

The most widely accepted test for UK visa purposes.

Required Scores

Undergraduate: 5.5-6.5, Postgraduate: 6.5-7.5 (depending on course)

Cost

PKR 39,500

Test Centers in Pakistan

Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi

TOEFL iBT

Accepted by many UK universities but not for visa purposes.

Required Scores

Undergraduate: 80-100, Postgraduate: 90-110 (depending on course)

Cost

PKR 36,000

Test Centers in Pakistan

Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi

Language Cert

Language Cert is another recognized English language test accepted for UK student visa applications.

Required Scores

B2 level (minimum 33 in each skill) for degree level study

Cost

PKR 25,000 - 30,000

Test Centers in Pakistan

Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar

Preparing for Your English Test

  • Book your test at least 2-3 months before your visa application.
  • Use official preparation materials from the test provider.
  • Take practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format.
  • Consider joining a preparation course if you need extra help.

Financial Requirements & Bank Statements

One of the most critical aspects of your UK student visa application is proving you have sufficient funds to support yourself.

How Much Money Do You Need?

  • Tuition fees: The amount stated on your CAS
  • Living costs: £1,334 per month (up to 9 months) for London, or £1,023 per month for other UK cities

Bank Statement Requirements

Bank statements must show that you've held the required funds for at least 28 consecutive days, with the closing balance no more than 31 days before your visa application date.

Tips for Pakistani Students:

  • Use a personal or parent's/legal guardian's account
  • Ensure the bank is recognized by UK Visas and Immigration
  • Get statements stamped and signed by the bank
  • If using parent's account, provide birth certificate and consent letter

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

  • Funds not held for the full 28-day period
  • Bank statements not properly formatted or stamped
  • Using multiple accounts without proper explanation
  • Unexplained large deposits shortly before the 28-day period

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