- Does the institution have the facility you require
- Would you prefer an institution in a city or the countryside (Note that tuition and living expense will vary between the two locations)
- Can you cover the course fees? (this will be found on the institution’s website)
- Can you cover the cost of living? (this will be on the UK border agency website)
VISA REQUIREMENTSÂ
The United Kingdom operates a points-based system for student visa. Points are allocated to each requirement and you need to obtain a certain number of points for the application to be granted.
There are different immigration categories for individuals coming to study in the UK.
- Tier 4(child): for individuals between the ages of 4 and 17 years old. If between 4 and 15 years old, you must be coming to the UK to be educated at an independent fee-paying school.
- Child Visitor: for individuals under 18 and coming to study in the UK for up to 6 months. Note that with this category of visa, you cannot switch or apply to extend your stay as a Tier 4 (child) student. If interested in studying in the UK under Tier 4 (child), you will need to leave the UK and apply from the country where you live.
- Tier 4(General): for individuals who are considered as adult students and coming to the UK to study. (Usually allowed to work 20 hours during term time).
- Student Visitor: for individuals who are at least 18 and coming to study for up to 6 months (or up to 11 months to take an English Language course), and have no intention to work while studying in the UK. Note that with this category of visa, you cannot switch or apply to extend your stay as a Tier 4 (General) student. If interested in studying in the UK under Tier 4 (General), you will need to leave the UK and apply from the country where you live.
- Prospective Student: for individuals whose intention is to come to the UK to finalise arrangements for a Tier 4 course of study (for example to attend an interview at a university which has made you a conditional offer). Note that you will be able to switch to Tier 4 (General) or Tier 4 (Child) while in the UK.
Students aged 16 or 17 will agree with the educational sponsor whether to apply as Tier 4 (General or as Tier 4 (Child).
If studying below National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 3 you must apply under Tier 4 (Child)
If your course is at NQF level 3 (or equivalent) or above, and it is longer than 2 years, it is recommended that you apply under Tier 4 (General).
For the appropriate document to attach to the visa application, see the attached document. Note that original document should be attached and all documents should be current and valid.
