Studying in the UK
Students
Many people wish to study in the UK to further their education and obtain qualifications which will benefit them in terms of securing future employment. From 31st March 2009, the rules relating to Students changed. Tier 4 of the Points Based System has replaced the regime that existed prior to this date although, if you are a Student under the Immigration Rules in place before 31st March 2009, you will still be subject to the old rules until your permission to stay runs out. Once your permission expires, you will have to extend your Student Visa under Tier 4.
In order to study in the UK, schools, colleges and universities (education providers) must be approved by the UK Border Agency and have been granted a licence to teach international students. They will have to be added to the Tier 4 Register of Sponsors. Without being on the Register of Sponsors, you will not be eligible for a Student Visa. If you are an education provider, please see our section ‘Sponsorship and Prevention of Illegal Working’ for more details about registering with the UKBA and licences.
If you are a Student, you need 40 points to qualify under Tier 4; 30 points will be awarded for being accepted onto a course with an approved education provider and 10 points for showing that you have enough money to cover the cost of your course and living expenses (maintenance). The course you study will have to be at a level recognised by the UK Border Agency. The amount of money you need to show will depend on whether you are studying inside London or outside London. The length of your course will also determine how long you can be granted permission to stay in the UK.
Tier 4 distinguishes between Child Students and Adult Students. The Student Visitor route, introduced in 2007, falls outside the scope of Tier 4.
Please click on the following links for more information: