How to Apply for a UK Study Visa from Pakistan in 2024-25

Studying in the United Kingdom offers a world-class education, cultural diversity, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. If you're a Pakistani student aspiring to study in the UK, here's a step-by-step guide to applying for a UK study visa in 2024-25.

1. Choose Your Course and University

Before applying for a visa, you need to have a confirmed place at a university, college, or other educational institution in the UK. Research and choose the course that suits your academic and career goals. You can find a list of UK universities and their courses on the UCAS website or individual university websites.

2. Get Your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

Once you receive an unconditional offer from your chosen institution, you will be provided with a CAS. This is a unique reference number that you will need for your visa application. Make sure your CAS is issued within six months of your visa application date.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Gather the required documents for your visa application. These typically include:

A valid passport.
CAS from your UK educational institution.
Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living costs.
Proof of English language proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL scores).
Tuberculosis test results (if required).
Passport-sized photographs.
Previous academic qualifications and transcripts.

4. Financial Requirements

You must demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself while studying in the UK. This includes:

Tuition fees for the first year of your course.
Living expenses: £1,334 per month if you’re studying in London and £1,023 per month if you’re studying outside London, for up to nine months.

5. Apply Online

Submit your visa application online through the UK Government's official website. Fill in the application form, pay the application fee, and book an appointment at a visa application center.

6. Attend a Visa Application Center

At your appointment, you will need to:

Submit your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
Provide the required documents.
Attend a credibility interview, where you may be asked questions about your chosen course, institution, and future plans.

7. Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for a decision. This can take several weeks, so apply as early as possible. You can track the status of your application online.

8. Travel to the UK

Once your visa is approved, you will receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport, which allows you to enter the UK. Upon arrival, you will need to collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a designated post office within 10 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the English language requirements for a UK study visa? You need to prove your English language proficiency by taking an approved English language test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. The required score varies depending on the level of your course. 2. How much does a UK study visa cost? The cost of a Tier 4 (General) student visa is £348 if you’re applying from outside the UK. You may also need to pay the healthcare surcharge, which is usually around £470 per year of study. 3. How long can I stay in the UK on a student visa? You can stay for the duration of your course plus a short additional period. For courses longer than six months, you can arrive in the UK up to one month before your course starts. After your course ends, you may stay for an additional four months. 4. Can I work while studying in the UK? Yes, you can work part-time during term time (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during holidays, depending on your course level and sponsor. 5. Can I bring family members with me? Yes, you can bring dependents (your spouse or children) if you are studying at postgraduate level or if your course is longer than nine months and your institution is a recognized body. 6. What happens if my visa application is refused? If your visa application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can either reapply after addressing the issues or appeal the decision if you believe it was wrong. 7. Is a tuberculosis test required? Yes, Pakistani applicants must take a tuberculosis test if they are coming to the UK for more than six months.