UK Visitor Visa is for short visits including short courses (up to 6 months). Student Visa is for degree/diploma programs over 6 months. Key rule: If your course is under 6 months with no intention to work, Visitor Visa works. For full degree programs (even short ones) at accredited institutions, you need Student Visa. Visitor Visa costs £115; Student Visa costs £490 plus Immigration Health Surcharge.
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Standard Visitor Visa | Student Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Tourism, business, short study | Long-term study |
| Max Stay | 6 months | Course duration + buffer |
| Study Allowed | Courses up to 6 months | Full academic programs |
| Work Allowed | No | Limited (20 hrs/week term time) |
| Visa Fee | £115 | £490 |
| IHS Required | No | Yes (£776/year) |
| CAS Required | No | Yes |
| Processing | 3-8 weeks | 3-8 weeks |
When Visitor Visa is Sufficient
You can study on Visitor Visa if:
- Course is 6 months or less
- Not leading to formal qualification
- Recreational or English language course
- Short professional training
- Research (if no formal enrollment)
- You won't work at all
Examples of Visitor Visa Study:
- 4-week English language course
- 6-month certificate program
- Short professional workshop
- Summer school (under 6 months)
- Photography/art courses
When Student Visa is Required
You need Student Visa if:
- Full degree program (BA, MA, PhD)
- Course longer than 6 months
- Foundation year programs
- Any course requiring CAS sponsorship
- You want to work part-time
- Program leads to UK qualification
Examples of Student Visa Requirement:
- 3-year Bachelor's degree
- 1-year Master's program
- 6-month pre-sessional English + degree
- Foundation year at university
Cost Comparison
Visitor Visa (6-month course):
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee | £115 |
| VFS Service | ~£70 |
| Total | ~£185 |
Student Visa (1-year Master's):
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee | £490 |
| IHS (1 year) | £776 |
| VFS Service | ~£70 |
| Total | ~£1,336 |
Document Requirements
Visitor Visa Documents:
- Course enrollment letter
- Proof of fees paid or ability to pay
- Accommodation details
- Bank statements
- Employment/ties to home country
Student Visa Documents:
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)
- Proof of funds (28-day rule)
- English language proof (IELTS/equivalent)
- Tuberculosis test (for India)
- Educational certificates
- Passport
Key Differences in Benefits
Visitor Visa Benefits:
- Lower cost
- Simpler application
- No IHS payment
- Good for short courses
Student Visa Benefits:
- Can work part-time (20 hrs/week)
- Full-time work during vacation
- NHS access through IHS
- Can stay for degree duration
- Graduate Route eligibility after study
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Applying visitor visa for degree program
- ❌ Studying beyond 6 months on visitor visa
- ❌ Working on visitor visa
- ❌ Not understanding CAS requirement
- ❌ Choosing visitor to save money when student required
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert visitor visa to student visa while in UK?
Generally no. You must return home and apply for student visa from there. Very limited exceptions exist.
Can I do a 6-month course on visitor visa?
Yes, if it's not a degree program and you don't work. Perfect for language courses or short professional programs.
Which is easier to get approved?
Visitor visa has simpler requirements, but student visa has high approval for genuine students with CAS.
Can I extend visitor visa to complete a 7-month course?
No. Visitor visa for study cannot be extended. Plan your course within 6 months or get student visa.