Depending on your nationality and country of residence, you might need a visa to study at the International Study Centre. Find out if you require a visa by using the UK Visa Questionnaire.
Important changes to the Visa application process
In 2009 the United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA) introduced a points-based system for visa applications. Within this new system, Tier 4 relates to overseas students (not Home nor EU) who want to study in the UK. All Tier 4 visa applications need to include a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number issued by your place of study. Once we have received your confirmation payment and your completed Acceptance Form, we will send you a Certificate of Enrolment and, if you need a visa, a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number.
Documents to submit with your Visa application form
You will be asked to enclose supporting documents with your application to prove the information that you have supplied is correct. If you do not submit all the necessary supporting documents, your visa application may be rejected. The documents that you submit with your visa application form are called supporting documents because they help show that you qualify to enter the UK as a student. These documents vary from case to case but they usually include:
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Education certificates - High School Certificate, Diploma Certificate, Degree Certificate or similar
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Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number - this is given to you by the International Study Centre after you confirm your place
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Certificate of Enrolment from the International Study Centre
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Proof of funds - this is evidence of your ability to pay the costs of your studies and your living expenses in the UK (e.g. bank statements) if you are going to pay for yourself or if your parents/family member is going to pay for you
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Details of government or private sponsorship if you are sponsored by your government or a company
These documents must be original not photocopies.
NB: Ensure that your supporting documents correspond with what you have written on your visa application form. This must also be the same as what is on the documents assessed section on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) statement.
Proof of funds
Proof of funds is the evidence that you submit to the UKBA to show that you have enough money to pay for your studies, accommodation and other expenses while in the UK. The UKBA need to see this proof before they can give a student visa. A guide to working out the amount you will need can be found on the UKBA website. Below have listed the usual things needed for proof of funds when submitting your student visa application:
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The funds need to be placed into a nominated bank account at least 28 days before you submit your student visa application
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You will need to provide documents to prove you have the funds (usually bank statements)
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These documents must not be dates more than 30 days before the date you submit your student visa application
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If someone else is paying for your studies (i.e. parents) you will need to provide documentary proof of your relationship (e.g. birth certificate)
Submitting your application
After gathering all the supporting documents and filling out the application form, you can then complete your visa application by submitting it to your nearest British Embassy, usually in your country. You need to submit your application at least four (4) weeks before your course entry date. The address of your local British Embassy can be found on the following websites:
What if I already have a UK student Visa (Tier 4)?
If you got your visa in or after October 2009 you have to apply for a new student visa (Tier 4) to study at the International Study Centre. However, if your visa was issued before October 2009 you may only need to notify the UKBA of your change of institution. We advise you to check with our International Admissions Centre (IAC) representative if you are unsure.
What happens if I cannot get a Visa?
Please see the Course deposits refund policy| for full details.
How do I extend my Visa?
You may need to extend your visa at some point during your course. Notify the International Study Centre staff before your visa ends. We will arrange to give you a visa extension form, part of which we need to fill in with details of your course, attendance, etc. If you have not attended a minimum of 80% of your classes, your request for an extension may be rejected.
Further information
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UKBA website: Applying for a Tier 4 Visa
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UK Visas website: Guidance for students coming to the UK to study