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Understanding your visa requirements as an EU citizen is the first step to planning your academic journey in the UK.

Yes. Since the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December 2020, EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens now need a visa to study in the UK, unless they were already living in the UK and secured pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).

If you’re coming to the UK for a course longer than six months, you must apply for a Student visa. For shorter programmes (up to 6 months), the Standard Visitor visa may apply, but it does not allow you to work or extend your stay.

The UK Student visa is your gateway to studying in Britain. This section breaks down its criteria and essential details.

To qualify for a UK Student visa, EU applicants must demonstrate:

• Acceptance by a licensed student sponsor

• English language proficiency

• Financial capacity to support themselves

• Intention to return home after studies (though not always required to prove)

Before applying, you'll need a CAS from your university—here’s what it means and why it matters.

A CAS is a unique reference number issued by your university once you’ve accepted your unconditional offer. It includes critical data like your course start/end dates, tuition fees, and your personal details.

⚠️ Important: The information on your CAS must match your visa application exactly to avoid delays or rejections.

Proving your English proficiency is a key requirement for getting a UK Student visa. Let’s explore how you can meet this.

You must prove your ability to read, write, speak, and understand English. Acceptable tests include:

• IELTS for UKVI

• Pearson PTE Academic UKVI

• Trinity ISE (UK only)

Exemptions apply if:

• You completed secondary education in English

• You’re applying for a degree equivalent or higher and already studied in English

• You’re a national of a majority English-speaking country

The UK Home Office requires proof that you can support yourself financially while studying. This section explains how.

You need to demonstrate enough money to pay:

• Tuition fees for one academic year

• Living expenses:

  • £1,334/month for courses in London

  • £1,023/month elsewhere

Funds must be in a recognised bank account for 28 consecutive days before your application. Parents can support you, but must provide:

• A signed letter of consent

• Proof of relationship (e.g. birth certificate)

Beyond CAS and finances, several additional documents may be needed depending on your circumstances.

Depending on your circumstances, you may also need:

• Academic transcripts and qualifications

• ATAS certificate (for certain sensitive postgraduate subjects)

• Tuberculosis test results (required from some EU countries)

• Parental consent letter if under 18

Many students balance work and study during their time in the UK. Here’s what you’re allowed to do under your visa.

The UK Student visa allows part-time work under strict rules. You may:

• Work up to 20 hours per week during term time

• Work full-time during vacation periods

• Undertake internships or placements integrated into your course

You cannot:

• Be self-employed or run a business

• Work as a professional sportsperson or entertainer

• Take up permanent full-time employment

Once you have your offer and documents ready, it’s time to apply. Here’s how the process works from start to finish.

Timing is crucial for a smooth visa process. This section outlines when to start your application.

Apply up to 6 months before your course starts if applying from outside the UK. It’s recommended to begin the process as soon as you receive your CAS.

Processing time is typically 3 weeks, but delays may occur, especially in summer and early autumn.

Understanding where to apply is just as important as how. Here’s what EU citizens need to know.

Applications are made online via the UK Government Visa Application website. You will also need to:

• Attend a biometric appointment

• Provide identity documents, often through the UK Immigration: ID Check app

Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your application is complete and accurate.

• Accept your university offer and receive your CAS

• Check your documents (passport, proof of funds, qualifications)

• Complete the online application form

• Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

• Upload documents and attend your biometric appointment

• Wait for the decision and receive your visa vignette or BRP

Studying in the UK involves visa fees and a health surcharge—here’s what to budget for.

• Student Visa Application Fee (outside UK): £490

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year of study

The IHS gives you access to NHS services, including GPs, A&E, and hospital treatment. You must pay for the entire duration of your course upfront during the application.

Sometimes, you’ll need more time or change your study plans. Learn how to extend or switch your visa.

You can apply to extend your Student visa if:

• You’re continuing your current course

• You’re starting a new course at a higher academic level

• You need additional time due to resits or delays

You can also switch to a different visa category from within the UK, including:

• Graduate visa

• Skilled Worker visa

• Innovator Founder visa

Always apply before your current visa expires and ensure your new course or employer is eligible under the visa rules.

After completing your studies, the Graduate visa offers a chance to stay and work in the UK.

Not everyone qualifies for a Graduate visa—check if you meet the criteria.

You must:

• Successfully complete an eligible course in the UK

• Hold a valid Student visa at the time of your Graduate visa application

• Have studied at a licensed sponsor with a record of compliance

The Graduate visa gives you the freedom to explore work opportunities—here’s what it allows.

You can:

• Work at any skill level

• Be self-employed or freelance

• Start a business

• Travel freely in and out of the UK

You do not need employer sponsorship or a job offer to apply.

How long can you stay and what are the rules? This section covers the basics of Graduate visa conditions.

• Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates: 2 years

• PhD or doctoral graduates: 3 years

You cannot extend this visa but may switch to another visa category that leads to settlement.

Looking to stay longer? Here’s how you can move from the Graduate visa to a more permanent status.

Popular options include:

• Skilled Worker Visa: Requires a job offer from a licensed sponsor

• Innovator Founder Visa: Ideal for entrepreneurs with viable business ideas

• Spouse or Partner Visa: If you have a qualifying relationship with a UK resident

Understanding the differences between these two visa types helps you plan your future steps.

Avoiding these frequent pitfalls can save your application from delays or rejection.

• Insufficient funds in your account

• Submitting incomplete or incorrectly formatted documents

• Applying with an expired passport

• Not declaring past visa refusals

• Leaving the application too late

Always double-check the current requirements before submitting.

Curious how the UK compares to other countries? This comparison offers key insights.

The UK stands out for its English-speaking environment, globally ranked institutions, and generous post-study options.

Get ahead of common issues with these practical tips for a smooth visa process.

• Prepare your documents early and use a checklist

• Ensure your bank statements are correctly formatted

• Apply at least 3 months in advance

• Consult your university’s international student team

• Keep copies of all documents submitted

Still have questions? These answers address the most common concerns for EU students.

Do EU students need a visa to study in the UK?
Yes, unless they have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Can I work during my studies?
Yes, up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.

Do I need a job offer to apply for a Graduate visa?
No, sponsorship or job offers are not required.

Can I bring family with me?
Yes, if you’re studying a postgraduate course or are government-sponsored.

Can I stay permanently in the UK after studying?
Not directly through a Student or Graduate visa, but you can switch to routes that lead to settlement.

The UK Student and Graduate visas offer EU citizens a structured and rewarding path to gaining a world-class education and exploring career opportunities post-graduation. With proper planning, timely applications, and accurate documentation, you can navigate the UK immigration system confidently.

Whether your goal is to return home with an international degree or build a career in the UK, knowing your visa rights and responsibilities is essential. For personalised advice, consult your university or the official UK Government visa website.

Need more help? Visit your university’s international office or check the latest guidance on the UK Government website to stay updated.