UK Student Visa

In 2008, the Government introduced a points-based tier system[link to work visas] to regulate immigration, of which student visa applications fall under tier 4. At Lawson Taylor, our specialist immigration solicitors can help you through any troubles that you may encounter during the application process of a student visa.

Adult Student Visas



Those wishing to study post-16 education in the UK will apply for an adult student visa. Under the points-based system, it is required that they score 40 points. Of these, 30 points will be scored once the applicant has received a visa letter that confirms they have been accepted onto a course with an approved education provider. The further 10 will be obtained once the applicant has proven that they can cover the fees of the course as well as general maintenance costs. Applicants who are granted this type of visa are entitled to work part-time during the term and full-time during the holidays.
A person who is over 17 years old can also apply for a student visitor visa. With this they can study in the UK for up to 6 months but are not permitted to take any full-time or part-time employment.

Child Student Visas



Those between the ages of 4 and 17 years old that wish to study in the UK can apply for a child student visa. As with the adult visa, 40 points need to be scored; 30 through a letter of confirmation from an acceptable education provider and 10 by proving they have sufficient financial support. Applicants also need to apply for an entry clearance at the British Consulate General/High Commission in their home country before they can enter the UK to study.

Changes in Legislation



From April 2012 there are a number of changes to the legislation regarding student visas, these state that:

  • Any institution that is accepting a foreign student must be accredited by a statutory education inspection body and classed as a ‘highly trusted’ sponsor before the end of 2012.
  • Students must be able to speak English at an ‘upper intermediate’ level, rather than a ‘lower intermediate’ level that is currently required.
  • Only students of universities and public-funded colleges will retain their rights to work, others who have been granted entry to study in the UK will be unable to work.
  • Only postgraduate and government-sponsored students will be permitted to bring any dependents.
  • The time limit on a student visa will stand at 3 years at a lower level and 5 years at a higher level.
  • Only graduates who have been offered a skilled job from a sponsoring employer will be able to work following the completion of their education. This must be applied for under tier 2 of the points system, rather than the tier 1 post study work route, which will be cancelled.


If you believe that you are entitled to study, continue studying or seek postgraduate employment in this country and are experiencing difficulties in your application, Lawson Taylor are here to help. Although a similar service is offered by a law centre they lack the experience and expertise in dealing with these types of cases. Our immigration solicitors are experts in dealing with immigration applications and will guide you through the entire process, right up to the appeal stage, if it is reached.

Contact Lawson Taylor today for advice and information on obtaining a UK student visa.