Why study in the UK?
The UK is home to some of the world's oldest and highest-ranked universities, and its degrees are short: most bachelor's degrees take three years (four in Scotland) and most master's degrees take just one year. That means lower total living costs and a faster return to the job market. Every UK university is quality-assured, and international students can stay to work after graduating on the Graduate Route.
Intakes and how to apply
- September: the main intake, with the widest choice of courses.
- January: a popular second intake at many universities.
- May: offered by some universities for selected courses.
Undergraduate applications usually go through UCAS. Postgraduate applications go directly to the university or through a university-approved agent. Once you accept an unconditional offer and pay any required deposit, the university issues your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), which you need for your visa.
Entry requirements
- Academic: equivalent of UK A-levels for undergraduate; a recognised bachelor's degree for postgraduate. Many universities publish country-specific requirements (for example for HSC graduates from Bangladesh).
- English: IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic, or other accepted tests; requirements depend on the university and course level.
- Documents: passport, transcripts, certificates, personal statement, references, and for some courses a CV or portfolio.
UK Student visa: key facts for 2026
| Item | Current figure |
|---|---|
| Student visa application fee (from outside the UK) | £558 (from 8 April 2026) |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £776 per year of the visa |
| Living-cost funds (London) | £1,570 per month, up to 9 months (£14,130), for applications from 30 November 2026 |
| Living-cost funds (outside London) | £1,203 per month, up to 9 months (£10,827), for applications from 30 November 2026 |
You must also show your first year's unpaid tuition fees, and funds must normally be held for 28 consecutive days. Some nationalities may qualify for reduced documentation requirements. Check the official guidance at gov.uk/student-visa.
Dependants: most students can no longer bring family members. Dependant visas are generally only available for postgraduate research courses (such as PhDs) and some government-sponsored students.
Working while you study and after graduation
- During your course: degree-level students can usually work up to 20 hours a week in term time and full time during official vacations. Check your visa conditions.
- Graduate Route: after you graduate, you can apply to stay and work. It is currently 2 years for bachelor's and master's graduates (3 years for PhD). For most applications made from 1 January 2027, it is reduced to 18 months; PhD graduates keep 3 years.
- Skilled Worker visa: you may be able to switch if you find a job with a licensed sponsor that meets the salary and skill rules.
Cost of studying in the UK
International tuition fees vary by university and subject, with laboratory and medical subjects costing more. When budgeting, include accommodation (usually the largest living cost, and highest in London), food, transport, phone, course materials, the visa fee, the IHS and an emergency fund. A cheaper university in an expensive city may not actually be cheaper overall.
Tips from 12 years in UK international recruitment
- Apply early for January and September; CAS deadlines can be tight.
- Keep your bank statements clean and the funds untouched for the full 28 days.
- Be ready for a credibility interview: know why you chose the course, the university and the UK, and how it fits your career.
- Look beyond rankings: check graduate outcomes, careers support and placement-year options.
- The UK is becoming stricter on recruitment quality. Choose courses you genuinely intend to complete.
Frequently asked questions
How much bank balance is needed for a UK student visa?
For applications from 30 November 2026, you need to show £1,570 per month for courses in London or £1,203 per month outside London, for up to 9 months, plus any unpaid first-year tuition. Funds must usually be held for 28 days. Confirm on gov.uk before you apply.
How much is the UK student visa fee in 2026?
The Student visa application fee from outside the UK is £558 (from 8 April 2026). You also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year of your visa.
Can international students work in the UK?
Degree-level students can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time in official vacations. Your exact limit is shown on your visa.
How long is the UK post-study work visa?
The Graduate Route is currently 2 years for bachelor's and master's graduates and 3 years for PhD graduates. For most applications from 1 January 2027 it becomes 18 months, with PhD graduates still eligible for 3 years.
Can I study in the UK without IELTS?
Some universities accept other tests (such as PTE or Duolingo) or alternative evidence of English. However, your visa still requires an acceptable level of English, so check both the university's and gov.uk's requirements.
Can I bring my family on a UK student visa?
Generally no, unless you are on a postgraduate research course such as a PhD or are a government-sponsored student.
Md Sabbir Khan is an International Partnerships Director based in London with 12+ years in international student recruitment across the UK, Canada, Australia, South Asia and MENA. More about Sabbir Khan · LinkedIn