Loading…
Loading…
Planning to send your child to school in the UK, or coming to study yourself? This guide covers the visa types, requirements, costs, and step-by-step application process for international students and families.
Last updated: April 2026 · 10 min read
Immigration rules change regularly. This guide provides general information current as of April 2026. Always check the official UK government website for the latest requirements, or consult a registered immigration adviser.
There are two main visa routes for international students coming to the UK:
Ages 4-17. For children attending an independent (fee-paying) school in the UK.
Previously known as Tier 4 (Child)
Ages 16+. For students at higher education institutions or further education colleges.
Previously known as Tier 4 (General)
Children attending state schools do not need a student visa — but they (or their parents) must have valid immigration status that permits living in the UK.
This visa is for children attending an independent school with a licensed Student Sponsor. Key requirements:
For students aged 16 and over attending universities, colleges, or other licensed education providers. This route covers A-Level study at some independent sixth form colleges as well as university degrees.
You will typically need to provide:
Visa application costs and financial thresholds (as of 2026):
| Item | Child Student | Student (16+) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | £490 | £490 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £776/year | £776/year |
| Living costs (boarding) | Covered by school fees | £821-1,023/month |
| Financial evidence period | 28 consecutive days | 28 consecutive days |
Financial evidence must show funds held for at least 28 consecutive days, with the closing balance dated no more than 31 days before your application. The funds must cover tuition fees (minus any deposits already paid) plus living costs.
International students under 18 at boarding schools must have a UK-based guardian. This is someone who:
If you don't have family or friends in the UK, professional guardianship agencies can provide a registered guardian. Look for organisations accredited by AEGIS (Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students). Typical cost: £2,000-4,000 per year plus hosting fees during school holidays.
Plan ahead — the visa process takes several weeks:
| Feature | Child Student Visa | Student Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Age range | 4-17 years old | 16+ years old |
| School type | Independent schools only | Universities, colleges, some sixth forms |
| Sponsor required | Yes — school must hold Child Student licence | Yes — institution must hold Student licence |
| English language test | Not required (assessed by school) | Required (IELTS B2+ for degree level) |
| Work permitted | No (under 16); 10 hrs/week (16-17) | 20 hrs/week term-time; full-time holidays |
| Application fee | £490 | £490 |
| IHS per year | £776 | £776 |
| Financial evidence | Tuition + boarding (covered by fees) | Tuition + £821-1,023/month living costs |
| Maximum duration | 6 years (under 16); 3 years (16-17) | Course length + wrap-up period |
| Can extend in UK? | Yes | Yes |
| Dependants allowed? | No | Yes (for postgraduate research/govt-sponsored) |
| Parental consent | Required from both parents | Not required (applicant is 16+) |
| Guardianship | Required (UK-based, 25+) | Not required |
Sources: ISC Census, HESA, UK Visas & Immigration. Figures for 2024-25.
No. The Child Student Visa only allows attendance at independent (fee-paying) schools. However, if you (the parent) have a valid UK work visa, spouse visa, or settlement status, your child can attend any state school without needing their own student visa.
Yes. Both parents (or all legal guardians) must provide written consent for the child to travel to and live in the UK for studies. If one parent is deceased or has sole custody, you'll need to provide supporting evidence.
Parents can visit on a Standard Visitor Visa (up to 6 months). However, the parent cannot live in the UK long-term without their own visa. There is no automatic right for parents of child students to reside in the UK.
You'll receive a refusal letter explaining why. Common reasons include insufficient funds, missing documents, or issues with the CAS. You can usually reapply with corrected documentation. There is no formal right of appeal for student visa refusals, but an Administrative Review can challenge caseworker errors.
Children under 16 on a Child Student Visa cannot work. Students aged 16+ on a Student Visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays (for degree-level study) or 10 hours per week (for below-degree study).
A Child Student Visa can be granted for up to 6 years (if under 16 at application) or 3 years (if 16-17). A Student Visa for degree-level study is typically granted for the course length plus a few months. Visas can be extended from within the UK.
Yes. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) you pay as part of your visa application gives you access to the NHS (National Health Service) on the same basis as a UK resident. No additional private health insurance is required, though some families choose to have it.
Ready to start your search? EduNavigate can help you find the right school: