To apply for UK Student Visa from India in 2025, you need a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from your UK university, proof of funds (£1,334/month for London, £1,023/month outside London for 9 months), and English proficiency. Apply online at gov.uk, pay £490 visa fee + £1,035 IHS fee, and attend biometrics at VFS. Processing takes 3 weeks standard.
Key Facts: UK Student Visa for Indians
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee | £490 (₹51,500 approx) |
| IHS Fee (per year) | £1,035 (₹108,700 approx) |
| Processing Time | 3 weeks (standard) |
| Financial Requirement | Tuition + Living costs for 9 months |
| Post-Study Work | Graduate Route: 2 years |
UK Student Visa Eligibility
To be eligible for UK Student Visa, you must:
- Have a CAS from a licensed Student Sponsor (university)
- Have enough money to support yourself and pay course fees
- Speak, read, write and understand English (IELTS/equivalent)
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have consent from parents if under 18
Financial Requirements (2025)
You must show funds for course fees PLUS living costs for 9 months:
Living Costs
| Location | Monthly | 9 Months |
|---|---|---|
| London | £1,334 | £12,006 |
| Outside London | £1,023 | £9,207 |
Total Funds Needed
Formula: Course Fees (or remaining fees) + Living Costs for 9 months
Example (London university, £20,000 fees):
£20,000 + £12,006 = £32,006 (₹33.6 lakhs approx)
Documents Required
From Your University
- CAS Letter - Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (14-digit CAS number)
- Offer Letter - Unconditional offer of admission
Identity Documents
- Valid Passport - Must be valid throughout your stay
- Previous Passports - If applicable
- Passport Photos - As per UK specifications
Financial Documents
- Bank Statements - Last 28 consecutive days showing required funds
- Fixed Deposit Certificate - If applicable
- Education Loan Sanction Letter - If using loan
- Sponsor Documents - If sponsored (relationship proof, sponsor's bank statements)
Academic Documents
- Degree Certificates - All completed qualifications
- Transcripts/Mark Sheets - 10th, 12th, graduation
- English Test Score - IELTS/PTE (unless exempted)
Additional Documents
- TB Test Results - From approved clinic (mandatory for Indians)
- ATAS Certificate - For certain subjects (check if required)
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Receive CAS from University
Your university issues CAS after you accept the offer and pay deposit. Contains your unique CAS number.
- Get TB Test Done
Book TB screening at an approved clinic in India. Results are valid for 6 months.
- Complete Online Application
Apply at gov.uk/student-visa. Fill personal details, travel history, CAS information.
- Pay Visa Fee + IHS
Pay £490 visa fee + Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year x course length).
- Book VFS Appointment
Schedule biometrics appointment at your nearest VFS center.
- Attend VFS Appointment
Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints + photo). Keep receipt.
- Wait for Decision
Standard: 3 weeks. Priority: 5 working days (£250 extra).
- Collect Passport
Once approved, collect passport with vignette (90-day entry visa). BRP card collected in UK.
UK Student Visa Fees (2025)
| Fee Type | Amount | Approx INR |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | £490 | ₹51,500 |
| IHS (per year) | £1,035 | ₹108,700 |
| Priority Service | £250 | ₹26,250 |
| TB Test | - | ₹3,500 |
Important Rules
- 28-Day Rule: Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days before application
- Apply Early: Can apply up to 6 months before course start
- Enter UK: Can arrive up to 1 month before course (if >6 months) or 1 week (if <6 months)
- Work Rights: 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does UK student visa take for Indians?
Standard processing takes 3 weeks (15 working days). Priority service (£250) takes 5 working days.
Can I work on UK student visa?
Yes, you can work 20 hours/week during term time and full-time during holidays. Some restrictions apply based on your course level.
What is the Graduate Route visa?
After completing your degree, you can apply for the Graduate Route visa allowing 2 years (3 years for PhD) to work in the UK.
Is interview required for UK student visa?
Credibility interviews may be conducted but are not routine. You may be called if there are concerns about your application.
What if I don't have 28 days bank statement?
The 28-day rule is strict. Your application will likely be refused if funds aren't held for 28 consecutive days.