Short-term study visa

Overview

If you want to come and study in the UK for a period not exceeding 6 months (or 11 months only if are studying an English language course), you might be eligible to apply for a short-term study visa.

Three different routes of short-term visa, depending on your age and course type

There are 3 short-term student routes:

• short-term student (6 months) – for applicants aged 16 and over for a maximum of 6 months’ study
• short-term student (11 months) – for applicants aged 16 and over for a maximum of 11 months’ English language study only
• short-term student (child) – for applicants aged under 16 for a maximum of 6 months’ study

What you can do and cannot do whilst in the UK on a short-term study visa

Once granted a visa, you will be able to embark on a short course in the UK, such as an English language course, a training course or a short period of research as part of a degree course, if you are studying abroad. Whilst in the UK on a short-term study visa you will not be able to undertake any work, including work placements or work experience, even if you not getting paid.

Application and fees

In order to apply for a short-term study visa you need to submit an online application. It costs £97 for a 6-months visa, or £186 for an 11 months visa. Usually, you can apply for this visa up to 3 months before your date of travel and you should receive a decision within 3 weeks. Please note that you will not be able to extend your leave or sponsor any dependants.

Other requirements

Offer from accredited education provider

Before making an application, you would be required to have a placement offer on a course in the UK. Usually, you must be accepted on a course with an education provider that holds a Tier 4 sponsor licence, or for example the holder of valid accreditation from Accreditation UK, the Accreditation Body for Language Services (ABLS), the British Accreditation Council (BAC) or the Accreditation Service for International Colleges (ASIC) (this list is not exhaustive). Please also note that you will not be able to study at an academy or state-funded school.

Enough funds and appropriate accommodation

In order to be successful in your visa application you should submit proof that you will be able to maintain and accommodate yourself adequately without recourse to public funds whilst in the UK, and pay for a return ticket.

Consent of parent or guardian if under 18

If you are a child aged 16 or 17 it would be essential to demonstrate that suitable arrangements have been made for your travel to, reception and care in the UK. The consent of a parent or guardian would be also necessary.

Often visa applications are complex, and it is your responsibility to make sure that you have followed the rules. Hence, it is always advisable to check with your solicitor, who will be able to guide you throughout the visa application process.

IF YOU HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY ANY  UK IMMIGRATION MATTER, PLEASE CONTACT SOLICITOR TITO MBARITI, A UK IMMIGRATION AND HUMAN RIGHTS SOLICITOR, FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION ABOUT YOUR LEGAL OPTIONS. CALL 07544 669131/01163800744 OR ON SKYPE: TITO.MBARITI.