TIER 4 - STUDENT VISA

The Tier 4 Student Visa replaces the old UK Student Visa.

Tier 4 of the points based system caters for students seeking to study at universities, colleges and other educational institutions throughout the UK.

Like all other tier visas under the points based system (except the Tier 1 visa), a successful application for a Tier 4 visa requires a certificate of sponsorship from a relevant sponsor - that sponsor like universities, colleges and other educational institutions throughout the UK who are offering a place to study.

There are three categories of student visa that you will be able to apply for. Each category has its own separate set of criteria that must be satisfied.

General student

This category includes students studying in Britain at or above degree level in a publicly funded institution, or engaging in more than 15 hours of study per week. In this category you are permitted to work for 20 hours each week during term time and full-time during holiday periods. If you have any dependants they will be able to join you.

School student

This category includes students in full time study at an independent school up to the age of 18. Working hours are the same as the general student category but dependents are not permitted.

Study through work student

This category caters to students on work experience courses or placements. Working hours will be the same as the other two categories and dependants will be permitted in instances where the principal applicant will be in the country in excess of 12 months.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to study in the UK you must:

• You must have a secured place at a UK-based institution for full-time study. Full-time means a minimum of 15 hours of classroom study per week.
• Have a proven track record in studying before coming to the UK.
• Have recognised qualifications equivalent to National Qualification Framework (NQF) in the UK education system.
• Produce evidence of sufficient funds to pass a maintenance test. Produce documents used to obtain an offer from the university or college sponsoring, such as qualification certificates.
• It is essential that applicants state that they intend to return to their home country after the course is completed.
• Pass a points-based assessment by scoring a total of 40 points. Points are awarded for the Tier 4 visa as follows:
  • Visa letter from education provider = 30 points
  • Maintenance fees to cover course fees and living expenses = 10 points

Other Information

Successful applicants are normally granted a 1 year visa initially, depending on the length of the course.

Students may work for 20 hours per week in term time, and 40 hours per week during the holidays.

Spouse immigration is only permitted for married partners. Dependents of students making a successful Tier 4 visa application will also be permitted to enter the UK. Spouse/Partners and dependents are usually free to work as they choose, as long as the main applicant is going to be studying for longer than 1 year.

Individuals wishing to study for 6 months or less may qualify for a student visitor visa, however, visa nationals will still require entry clearance in this category. This type of visa does not allow for any form of employment.

If you think we can help you with your immigration situation, contact us to make an appointment. Call 02080902408 (Office) / 07869286490 (Mobile) or email info@systimesolutions.com or fill in the enquiry form.