The UK remains a top choice for Indian students thanks to its one-year master’s programs (shorter than the typical two-year programs in other countries) and the popular Graduate Route visa that allows post-study work. Here’s a complete breakdown of the student visa process.
Step 1: Receive Your CAS (Confirmed Acceptance for Studies)
Once you accept an unconditional offer from a UK university, they issue a CAS number — a unique reference required for your visa application. This is different from a regular offer letter and is issued only closer to your course start date.
Step 2: Prove Financial Requirements
The UK Student Route visa requires proof of funds covering:
- Tuition fees for one year (or the full course if less than a year)
- Living costs: currently around £1,483/month for London-based courses and £1,136/month for outside London, for up to 9 months
Funds must be held in your account (or a parent/legal guardian’s account with proper documents) for a minimum of 28 consecutive days before application.
Step 3: Take a Tuberculosis (TB) Test
Applicants from India are required to undergo a TB test at an approved clinic as part of the visa application.
Step 4: Complete the Online Application and Biometrics
Apply online through the UK government’s official visa portal, pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), then book a biometric appointment at a UKVI center.
Fees Breakdown (Approximate)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | £490 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £776/year |
| TB Test | ₹3,000–5,000 |
Processing Time
Standard processing takes about 3 weeks, though a priority service (5 working days) is available for an additional fee.
The Graduate Route Visa: UK’s Biggest Draw
After completing your degree, the Graduate Route visa allows you to stay and work in the UK for:
- 2 years for bachelor’s and master’s graduates
- 3 years for PhD graduates
Unlike some other countries, this route doesn’t require a job offer — you can search for work freely during this period, making it one of the most flexible post-study work visas globally.
Common Visa Rejection Reasons
- Financial documents not maintained for the required 28-day period
- Discrepancies between CAS details and visa application details
- Insufficient proof of relationship for funds from a parent/guardian
- Missing or improperly formatted TB test certificate
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Double-check your CAS details match your passport exactly
- Maintain your finances well before you plan to apply — don’t make last-minute large deposits
- Keep IHS payment and visa fee receipts safe for your visa interview (if required)
- Apply at least 6 weeks before your course start date
Conclusion
The UK’s student visa process is well-structured but detail-sensitive — small mismatches in your CAS or financial documents can lead to delays or rejection. With proper planning and the added benefit of the Graduate Route visa, the UK continues to be one of the most attractive study-abroad destinations for Indian students.
Disclaimer: Visa fees, financial thresholds, and Graduate Route rules are subject to change. Always confirm current figures on the official UK government visa website.