Visa information

These pages tell you everything you need to know about visas, including information on the Student visa required for international students who intend to study full-time at Birkbeck.

Students taking a short course of no more than six months, or who need to retake an element of their programme, can use a Standard Visitor visa.

You can also find information here about Student Dependant visas.

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student visa

If you are an international student from outside the UK and Ireland and require a visa to study in the UK, you will have to apply for a Student visa to pursue a full-time programme of study.

The visa process and requirements vary depending on from where you apply.

Who can apply?

Find out whether you can apply for a Student visa.

How to apply

To apply for a Student visa, you must submit a fully completed visa application form with supporting documentation.

Applying from outside the UK

Find out how to apply for a Student visa if you are applying from outside the UK.

Applying from the UK

Find out how to apply for a Student visa if you are applying from within the UK.

Information for current Student visa holders

Read more about what is required from those who already hold Student visas.

Free Student visa application checking service

Ready to apply for a Student visa? Our experienced student immigration advisor can check your application.

Supporting documentation

Find out what documentation you need to support your Student visa application.

Confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS)

Find out more about your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, an essential part of your Student Visa application.

Financial requirements

You will need to show in your visa application that you have enough money to pay your course fees and can support yourself during your studies (maintenance).

Student visa deposit

If you need a Student visa to study, you will need to submit a deposit to secure your place.

Credibility interviews

You will be asked to attend a credibility interview as part of the Student visa application process.

Study limit and length of Student visa

There are limits placed by the Home Office on how long you can be in the UK under the Student Route.

Student visa responsibilities

In order to maintain your visa rights, you must comply with the terms and conditions of your visa.

Birkbeck registration for Student visa holders

Once you receive your visa, you will need to formally register with Birkbeck.

English language ability for Student visa holders

Applicants who need a Student visa must meet our English language requirements, to comply with Home Office regulations.

Other visa information

Applying for a Student Dependant visa for full-time Student visa holders

A Student Dependant visa allows you to bring members of your family with you when you come to the UK to study - find out more.

Forced Migrants

If you have sought sanctuary in the UK, you may be able to study at Birkbeck. Find out what documentation you will need to provide and how we can support you.

Visa for short-term study

A Standard Visitor visa allows you to enter the UK to study a short course of no more than six months, resit examinations, repeat a module or attend your viva.

Standard visitor visa for graduation

You may need a visa to attend your graduation.

Graduate visa

Find out more about the post study work visa at Birkbeck, University of London.

Student Immigration Advice Statement of Service

Find out which areas of immigration we can help you with, as well as how to book an appointment and other useful resources.