The UK Student visa is one of the world's most popular international study visas — and one of the most document-intensive. Thousands of applicants get rejected each year for preventable mistakes: incorrect financial evidence, missing documents, or misunderstanding the CAS process.

Step 1: Get Your CAS Number

You cannot apply without a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university. Accept your unconditional offer, complete any pre-CAS requirements, and your university issues a unique 14-character CAS reference. It is valid for 6 months — you must apply within this window.

Step 2: Financial Requirements

The most common reason for rejection. You must prove funds to cover:

  • Tuition fees for your first year (as stated in your CAS)
  • Living costs: £1,334/month in London; £1,023/month outside London (max 9 months shown)

Example (Manchester, £15,000 tuition): £15,000 + (£1,023 × 9 = £9,207) = £24,207 minimum in your account

Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days before application. Official bank statements required — online screenshots generally not accepted.

Step 3: Documents Checklist

  • Valid passport (6+ months beyond course end)
  • CAS number from university
  • 28-day bank statements
  • English language results (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • TB test results (required for Pakistan, India, Bangladesh applicants)

Step 4: Online Application and Fees

  • Visa application fee: £490 (courses 6+ months)
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year of study
  • Apply at gov.uk/student-visa

Step 5: Biometrics and Processing

Book a biometrics appointment at a UKVCAS centre for fingerprints and photo. Processing time: typically 3 weeks after biometrics (priority options available).

Top Rejection Reasons

  • Funds not held for 28 consecutive days
  • Financial evidence does not cover the full required amount
  • CAS details not matching the application
  • TB test required but not submitted
  • Inconsistencies between application and supporting documents

Need Visa Application Support?

Our Education Advisory team reviews your documents, guides your financial evidence, and supports your application from CAS to approval.

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