Overview
The Short-term study visa is designed specifically for students coming to the UK to study an English language course. The course must be at an accredited institution and last between 6 and 11 months. You must intend to leave the UK at the end of your course.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must be 16 or older and have an unconditional offer from an accredited English language course provider. You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay and pay for your return or onward journey. You cannot study other subjects or change your course once in the UK.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Ensure your course is an English language course at an accredited institution and lasts between 6 and 11 months.
- 2
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Gather your passport, proof of course acceptance, and financial evidence.
- 3
Step 3: Apply Online
Complete the online application form on the official GOV.UK website and pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
- 4
Step 4: Biometrics
Book and attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
- 5
Step 5: Receive Decision
Wait for your visa decision, which typically takes 3 weeks.
Required documents
- Current passport or valid travel document
- Evidence of acceptance onto an English language course (visa letter)
- Proof of funds to support yourself and pay for your course
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable)
- Parental consent (if under 18)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
This visa does not lead to settlement or permanent residency. It is a temporary route for study purposes only.
Family options
You cannot bring family members (dependants) with you on this visa. They must apply separately as visitors if they wish to accompany you.
Language notes
While there is no specific English language test requirement for this visa, you must be accepted onto an English language course by an accredited provider.
After arrival
Once you arrive, you must follow the conditions of your visa, including attending your course regularly and leaving the UK before your visa expires.
Common pitfalls
- Applying for this visa for courses shorter than 6 months (use Standard Visitor visa instead).
- Attempting to work or undertake work placements.
- Failing to provide sufficient financial evidence.
- Assuming this visa can be extended or switched to another route within the UK.
FAQs about Short-term study visa
Who is the Short-term study visa for?+
Individuals aged 16 or over who have been accepted onto an English language course at an accredited UK institution.
What are the eligibility requirements for Short-term study visa?+
To qualify, you must be 16 or older and have an unconditional offer from an accredited English language course provider. You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay and pay for your return or onward journey. You cannot study other subjects or change your course once in the UK.
How much does the Short-term study visa cost?+
Typical fees listed for Short-term study visa: £228 visa application fee, plus the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge (typically £776 per year).. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Short-term study visa processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically 3 weeks from the date of your biometric appointment..
How long can I stay on the Short-term study visa?+
Up to 11 months, plus an additional 30 days after the course ends.
Can I work on the Short-term study visa?+
No work or business activities are permitted, including paid or unpaid work, work placements, or internships.
Does Short-term study visa lead to permanent residence in United Kingdom?+
This visa does not lead to settlement or permanent residency. It is a temporary route for study purposes only.
What are common mistakes with Short-term study visa?+
Applying for this visa for courses shorter than 6 months (use Standard Visitor visa instead). Attempting to work or undertake work placements. Failing to provide sufficient financial evidence.