Estimate only. Fees reviewed July 2025. Always verify on GOV.UK before applying. This is not legal or immigration advice.
Overview of Student Visa Costs
The UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) allows international students to study a full-time course at a licensed student sponsor in the UK. The visa fee itself is relatively modest compared to other routes, but the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) — charged at the reduced rate for students — can add a significant amount to the total cost, especially for longer courses.
Visa Application Fee
The Student visa application fee is £490, regardless of whether you are applying from outside the UK or extending from inside the UK. This fee applies to both the main applicant and each dependant.
| Applicant type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Main applicant (Student visa) | £490 |
| Dependant spouse/partner | £490 |
| Dependant child | £490 |
| Child Student visa (age 4–17) | £490 |
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for Students
Students pay the reduced IHS rate of £776 per year (compared to £1,035/year for most other visa types). The IHS is calculated on the full visa duration, rounded up to the nearest year, and paid upfront.
| Course duration | IHS years (rounded up) | IHS per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 1 | £776 |
| 2 years | 2 | £1,552 |
| 3 years (e.g. undergraduate) | 3 | £2,328 |
| 4 years (e.g. integrated masters) | 4 | £3,104 |
| 1 year + 4 months (e.g. 16-month masters) | 2 | £1,552 |
Worked Examples
Example 1: 3-year undergraduate degree, single student
Example 2: 1-year masters degree, student + 1 dependant
Maintenance Funds Requirement
In addition to the visa fee and IHS, you must demonstrate you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. This is not a fee — it is money you must already have in your bank account — but it is a critical part of the application.
| Location | Required per month | Maximum assessed (9 months) |
|---|---|---|
| London | £1,334 | £12,006 |
| Outside London | £1,023 | £9,207 |
Funds must have been held for at least 28 consecutive days before the application date. Separate maintenance requirements apply for each dependant.
Other Costs to Budget For
- English language test (SELT): If required, an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as IELTS for UKVI typically costs £150–£200.
- Biometric enrolment (overseas): If applying from outside the UK, you will need to attend a visa application centre. Fees vary by country.
- Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS): Students studying certain sensitive subjects at postgraduate level may need ATAS clearance. This is free but can take several weeks.
- Tuberculosis (TB) test: Applicants from certain countries must provide a TB test certificate. Costs vary by country.
- Priority service (£500): Available for in-country applications only. Aims to process within 5 working days.
- Super Priority service (£1,000): Available for in-country applications only. Aims to process by the next working day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work on a Student visa?
Yes, in most cases. Students on a degree-level course at a higher education provider can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. Students on below-degree courses are typically limited to 10 hours per week. Check your CAS and visa conditions for your specific restrictions.
Can I bring my family on a Student visa?
Dependants (spouse/partner and children) can join you if you are a government-sponsored student or studying at postgraduate level at a higher education provider. Undergraduate students generally cannot bring dependants. Each dependant pays the same £490 visa fee and IHS at the reduced rate of £776/year.
What is a CAS and does it cost anything?
A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a unique reference number issued by your UK educational institution. It is required for your Student visa application. Most universities issue the CAS for free, but some institutions charge an administrative fee — check with your institution.
Do I need to show funds in my bank account?
Yes. You must show you have enough money to pay for your course and support yourself. The required amount depends on your course and where you will be studying. For courses in London, you need to show £1,334/month for up to 9 months. Outside London, it is £1,023/month. These funds must have been in your account for at least 28 consecutive days.
Can I extend my Student visa in the UK?
Yes. If you need more time to complete your studies, you can apply to extend your Student visa from inside the UK. The extension fee is the same as the initial application fee (£490), and you will need to pay IHS for the extension period.
What happens to my IHS if my visa is shorter than expected?
If your visa is refused, you receive a full IHS refund. If you leave the UK permanently before your visa expires, you may be entitled to a partial refund for complete unused years of IHS. Partial years are not refunded.