UK Student Visa Guidelines

At London Homestays, we specialise in providing safe, comfortable accommodation for international students studying in the UK. While our primary focus is helping you find the perfect homestay or student accommodation in London, we understand that visa requirements can be confusing. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you understand your visa options.

As an accommodation provider accredited by the British Council for both adult and under-18 homestays, we work closely with many of London’s leading language schools and educational institutions. While we don’t directly handle visa applications, our years of experience supporting international students means we understand the challenges you face when planning your UK study experience.

This guide provides general visa information to help you understand your options. For specific visa advice, we recommend consulting your educational institution or the official UK government website (https://www.gov.uk/student-visa) for the most up-to-date information.

Most international students will need a visa to study in the UK. The type of visa you need depends on your course length and type of study. For courses lasting longer than six months, you’ll need to apply through the Student Route visa system. This is designed for international students aged 16 or over who want to study at a UK institution.

The basic requirements include having a valid passport, an unconditional offer from a licensed UK institution, proof of English language proficiency, and evidence of sufficient funds. Some countries’ residents will also need to provide a clear tuberculosis test.

For courses up to 6 months, including short English language courses, summer schools, and internships, the Standard Visitor route is often the most suitable option. This route is straightforward and typically less expensive than other visa types. You cannot work on this visa, but you can study and participate in work experience placements that are part of your course.

If you’re planning to study English language courses for 6-11 months, the Short-term Student route is specifically designed for you. This route allows for focused language study over an extended period. Like the Visitor route, working is not permitted.

For courses lasting longer than 11 months, you’ll need the Student Route visa. This includes university degrees, extended language programmes, and foundation courses.

Planning your budget is an essential part of the visa application process. Your costs will include:

• The visa application fee (varies by visa type)
• Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) fee (Student Route only)
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service during your stay (Student Route only)

Priority services are available if you need a faster decision.

The application process varies depending on your nationality and chosen visa route. For most short-term studies:

1. Secure your place at your chosen school or institution
2. Receive your acceptance letter or offer
3. Apply online for your visa (if required)
4. Prepare supporting documents showing:
   • Your course details
   • Where you’ll stay in the UK
   • How you’ll support yourself during your stay

Your university’s international office is your best resource for visa support. They have specialist immigration advisors who can guide you through the application process and keep you updated about any changes.

Additional support is available through organisations like UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs), the British Council, and your country’s British Embassy or High Commission.

Healthcare arrangements vary by visa type. Student Route visa holders pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access. Short-term visitors should arrange comprehensive travel insurance as they may need to pay for any healthcare they receive.

Work permissions vary by visa type:

• Student Route visa holders can typically work up to 20 hours per week during term time
• Standard Visitor and Short-term Student visa holders cannot work
• Internships and work experience must be properly arranged through authorised schemes

European students should note that taking paid work might affect their eligibility for an IHS refund. It’s important to check your specific visa conditions and always keep records of your working hours.

Finding the right accommodation is a crucial part of planning your UK study experience. Your accommodation choice can affect your visa application, as you’ll need to provide details of where you’ll be staying when you first arrive in the UK.

Living with a British family in a homestay is one of the most enriching ways to experience British culture while studying. At London Homestays, we specialise in matching students with carefully selected host families across London. Our homestay programme, accredited by the British Council, offers several advantages:

• A welcoming home environment to help you settle into UK life
• Opportunities to practise English in everyday situations
• Local knowledge to help you navigate your new surroundings
• Safe and comfortable accommodation verified by our team
• Support from experienced hosts who understand student needs
• Options for different dietary requirements and preferences

Our team are experienced in providing the documentation you might need for your visa application, including proof of accommodation. We can provide an official accommodation confirmation letter for your visa application once your booking is confirmed.

While homestays offer unique cultural benefits, we understand they’re not for everyone. There are other accommodation options available such as:

• Student residences
• Shared houses
• Private apartments
• Short-term lets

Whatever accommodation option you choose, please ensure you have the proper documentation for your visa application. Our team can advise on which accommodation type might best suit your study plans and visa requirements.

Ready to begin your UK study journey? Start by checking your course requirements and calculating total costs, including living expenses. Gather your documents early, and don’t hesitate to contact your university’s international office for guidance. Once you receive your CAS, you can begin your visa application.

Need more information? Contact our team or speak with your university/language school’s international student support team.