Apply for a UK Student Visa Without Stress

The UK was recently voted the easiest country in the world to get a scholarship, and also the country with the highest rate of international student acceptance.

Why Study in the UK?

I understand we all have personal preferences when it comes to study destinations – I mean, I do too, and mine is the UK.

After the UK, I also love Canada and the USA. This goes for everyone. Some people prefer Canada, some the USA, some Australia, and others the Netherlands and beyond – and that’s okay.

But here are statistics from the latest rankings of countries with the highest numbers of international students and study quality indexes.

All of the numbers there show why the UK is currently the best study destination in the world:

The UK has one of the highest numbers of international students in the world

The country currently houses over 758,855 international students. This is a record high and a 10% increase from last year.

Of course, it is a clear sign that the UK continues to attract students from all over the world more than most countries.

It also means that something good is happening in the UK, and over 758,855 international students are enjoying it.

There are at least 4 UK universities in the top 10 spots in the current QS World University Rankings

Now, that is great. Imagine having 4 out of the top 10. It’s proof that the UK has some of the best Universities in the world.

In the list, you will find institutions like the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL.

The UK is the second most popular study destination globally, just after the US.

Frankly, this one is hard to place, simply because some platforms rank the UK as number one while some, like studee.com, rank the USA as number one.

However, whichever platform you choose to go with, what the ranking tells me is that the UK is up there as the best.

Even if the USA is ranked number one, being second to the best isn’t bad, considering we have 195 countries in the world.

The UK consistently outranks countries like Canada, Australia, and Germany in terms of international student enrolment.

94% of international students in the UK report that they are satisfied with their study experience

Stats from interaction with international students in the UK (through many platforms) show that 94% of the students are satisfied with the country.

They are reportedly satisfied with the quality of education, campus facilities, multicultural environments, and support services, this is according to a UKCISA survey.

Graduates from UK universities are among the most employable globally, with 83% landing jobs within 6 months.

This is the part I love the most. With the UK’s strong academic reputation and practical teaching style, you have an edge in the global job market.

As a student in the UK, you are 83% sure of getting a job six months after graduating from your program.

London is home to 18 universities and was ranked the #1 Best Student City in the World last year by QS.

London’s ranking as the best city in the world for students isn’t a surprise to many.

The city has a rich culture, numerous job opportunities, and a scenic academic environment, and therefore, is a global magnet for students.

The UK Graduate Route allows international students to stay and work for up to 2 years after graduation (3 years for PhDs)

Most students love to stay back and get a job after studying, and the UK offers this option.

After graduating from a UK university program, you can stay back in the country for up to 2 years (3 for PhD students).

Within this period, you can transition to other visa options and even go on to stay in the UK permanently.

There are many more reasons to study in the UK, and I can tell you, you will be grateful after your program if you choose the UK as your study destination.

Before we talk about the scholarships you can apply for to study in the UK for free, here are other requirements you need to study in the UK.

Even if you get one of these scholarships for international students in the UK, you still need to provide these requirements, either when you want to get your student visa or as proof of your identity.

Requirements to study in UK for international students – What do you need to study in the UK?

To study in the UK, here are all the things you need.

1. Offer Letter or Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

Here’s how this works: before you can apply for a student visa and then take a flight to the UK to study, you must have an unconditional offer from a UK university or college to come and study in the country.

This offer will come once you apply for admission to study in a particular UK school.

If your application is approved, the school will then give you a CAS letter (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).

2. Student Visa (UK Student Visa – formerly Tier 4)

You are probably already familiar with what a student visa is. You need a student visa to enter the UK for academic purposes.

We will talk more about how to get your student visa later.

2. Your international passport

Of course, you will need your international passport. You will use it to apply for your student visa.

It is also a form of identification. For example, when you arrive in the UK, you can always use your passport as a means to identify yourself with the authorities until you get your student ID card.

3. Proof of English Language Proficiency

Usually, you will be asked to show proof that you can understand and speak English, but this is not mandatory anymore.

You will only do it if your previous education was not done in the English language or if you currently don’t understand the English language.

For those who need it, you can do it through tests like:

- - IELTS (most common)
  - TOEFL
  - PTE Academic

4. Academic Qualifications and Transcripts

If you are going for your master’s or PhD, you will show your previous academic results, like:

High school certificate for undergraduate courses
Bachelor’s degree for master’s programs

Your transcripts must be in English or officially translated.

5. Proof of Financial Support

Normally, you must prove you can pay:

- - Your tuition fees
  - Your living expenses (accommodation, food, travel, etc.) before your student visa application is approved.

The UK Home Office requires you to show proof of:

About £1,334 per month if studying in London
About £1,023 per month if studying outside London.

The above amount is for living expenses alone, there is still the student visa fee.

How much is the UK student visa fee?

The UK student visa fee is £490, whether you are applying within or outside the United Kingdom.

All these amounts must be in your account for at least 28 days before you apply for your student visa.

However, because you will be applying for scholarships, you won’t be required to show these amounts because your scholarship providers will cover them.

6. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate (if applicable)

Don’t panic over this, it is not compulsory for all international students.

If it is required for your country, the UK immigration authorities will let you know. In that case, you will go to take the test at a clinic approved by the UK Home Office.

7. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Payment receipt

If you get one of the scholarships we will discuss here, then you don’t need to worry about this fee.

However, if you are not on any scholarship, this is a fee you pay during your visa application.

It gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). As of this year, it’s £776 per year.

Again, if you are on a fully funded scholarship, it will be covered for you.

8. Student Visa (UK Student Visa – formerly Tier 4)

The all-important student visa. Whether you are on a scholarship or not, you will get a student visa before you are allowed into the UK for academic purposes.

The good thing is, unlike before, you no longer need to visit an embassy to apply for UK student visa.

You can apply for it online once you have all the UK study visa requirements (we will list them here as well).

Furthermore, you can apply up to 6 months before your course starts.

9. Passport-Sized Photographs

Well, you should expect this. Anywhere there is a visa application, there will be a need for a passport photograph.

You will need recent, clear, and as per visa guidelines (usually white background, no glasses, neutral expression).

10. Personal Statement or SOP (Statement of Purpose)

As a student who wants to study abroad, you should be familiar with what a statement of purpose is.

Many UK schools require this as part of your application.

In your SOP, you will explain:

Why you want to study in the UK
Why you chose the course and university
What your future plans are

These are all the requirements you need. When you have everything we just listed here, you are sure on your way to studying in the UK.

From the list, your UK student visa is extremely important. I mean, even if you get a scholarship, you will still apply for your UK student visa.

Without it, you can’t enter the UK to study. Because of how important the student visa is, we will share more information about it below.

Overview of the UK student visa

As I already said, the UK Student Visa (formerly called the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa) is the official visa that allows international students to live and study in the United Kingdom for a full-time academic course.

You will only get this visa if you have been offered admission to study in the UK by any government-recognised school.

This is also like saying, “You can’t apply for a UK study visa if you have not applied and been accepted to study in any institution in the UK”.

This also implies that to start your journey to studying in the UK, you need to apply for admission to any UK institution first.

You can apply through a scholarship application or do it as a separate task. In some schools, once you get accepted to study there, you will be eligible to apply for these scholarships.

Key facts about the UK Student Visa:

To be eligible for a UK student visa, you must first get a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK institution – this means you must first get admission to study in the UK.
You will need a UK student visa if you are going for a foundation, undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD program, or some English language programs.
There is an age requirement for a UK student visa, and it’s 16 years. Therefore, you must be 16 years or older before you apply. If you are not 16 years old or older, your application for a UK student visa won’t be approved.
Your UK study visa will be valid till the end of your program, plus a few extra months depending on the course level.
With a UK study visa, you can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during term time and full-time during holidays.
Furthermore, with your UK study visa, you can stay and work in the UK for 2 years (or 3 years for PhD graduates) after graduation.

There is one more rule you should know about the UK student visa, and it’s about bringing a dependent with you.

It states that only students who are enrolled in postgraduate research programs or government-sponsored studies can bring dependents (spouse/children).

Requirements to get a UK study visa

The requirements for a UK student visa are:

CAS (from your school)
Valid passport
Proof of English proficiency (e.g. IELTS)
Academic transcripts
Financial evidence (tuition + living expenses)
TB test certificate (if required)
Immigration Health Surcharge payment
Visa application form (filled out online).

You can apply for this visa online. You don’t have to visit the UK embassy in your home country.

UK Study Visa Requirements for a Master’s degree

If you’re going for a Master’s degree, here are the UK study visa requirements for a master’s degree:

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): You must have an offer from a licensed school and receive your CAS reference number.
Proof of Financial Support: Secondly, you must show the UK authorities that you have enough money to pay for:
- - Your course fees (as listed on your CAS), and
  - Living expenses: £1,334 per month for up to 9 months if studying in London, or £1,023 per month outside London.
Proof of your English Language proficiency: You need to prove that you understand the English language.
Your valid passport: This is mandatory.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): When you pay this fee (£776 per year), you will be able to use the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Your Tuberculosis test results
Parental or Legal Guardian Consent (if under 18): You only need this if you’re under 18.

Why you should apply for a scholarship if you want to study in the UK

As you can see from everything we have discussed so far, studying in the UK costs a lot of money, and it’s not just about tuition fees.

You need money for several other important expenses, especially when applying for your visa.

You need money for stuff like:

Visa Application Fee: £490 for a standard UK Student Visa application.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): This one takes around £776 per year before you can access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Proof of living expenses: In this case, the UK authorities need you to show that you have enough money to support yourself when you arrive. They don’t want you to come and be a problem to the country.
- - It is £1,334/month if you are studying in London
  - It is £1,023/month if studying outside London (for up to 9 months)
Tuition Fees Deposit: In many schools, you will be asked to deposit at least a part of your tuition fee upfront before you get your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
In addition, some schools will also ask you to deposit part of your accommodation fee.
TB Test (if required): This test costs £60–£100, depending on your country.
English Language Test Fees: For those writing IELTS or TOEFL, you can spend between £150–£250.
Flight Tickets: Do not forget the cost of your flight ticket. A one-way ticket to the UK is between £300–£800 or more.
Then other miscellaneous expenses, like the amount you will use for getting your passport-sized photos. The one for your document translations, and many others.

With these fees, it will be hard for anyone who isn’t from a high-income family to study in the UK.

This is why scholarship is very important. With a fully funded scholarship, all of these expected expenses will be paid for.

List of fully funded scholarships for international students in the UK that you can apply for

If you want to study in the UK at no cost, you should apply for scholarships like:

Simmons University Kotzen Scholarship

This particular scholarship is for high-achieving students who are looking for a fully funded undergraduate opportunity in the UK.

The scholarship covers your full tuition and other mandatory fees, which means that it takes care of just about everything.

Before you are selected for this scholarship, you must be an international student.

Plus, you must show that you have strong academic potential, leadership abilities, and a drive to make a positive impact in your communities.

You know many scholarships pick only students with good grades, but that’s not the case here.

The Kotzen Scholarship don’t just consider only your grades before they select you.

It’s not just about grades; they also want to see what you can contribute to your community, what problems you care about, and how you handle real challenges.

To get the scholarship, you will submit an essay and go through an interview, but if you’re passionate and authentic, you have a real shot.

We all know that studying in the UK as an undergrad can be expensive, so having all your costs covered is a massive relief.

It’s also a great chance to join a community of scholars who are just as driven and curious as you are.

Whether you’re planning to study science, arts, business, or any other field, this Kotzen Scholarship will set you up for a brilliant start.

Application link: https://www.simmons.edu.

Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trust Scholarships at Oxford (UK)

This scholarship is for students from developing countries who want to study at the University of Oxford and later help make a difference in their home country.

This implies that after enjoying this particular scholarship, you have to go home and contribute to the growth of your country.

But, before you say that’s too bad, remember that this scholarship pays for everything – your tuition, and your living costs.

It even includes special leadership training to help you grow better.

Plus, this is a great chance to study at one of the best universities in the world without worrying about money.

They’re looking for people who don’t just want a degree but want to go back home and improve things in their country after studying in the UK.

To get this scholarship, you need to show the selection committee that you have leadership potential and know exactly how your studies will help your country.

If you are selected, you’ll meet other students from around the world who also want to change lives, and you’ll get support from people who believe in what you’re trying to do.

The application is part of Oxford’s normal graduate process, but there are a few extra steps for this scholarship.

The application link is: https://www.ox.ac.uk.

Goldsmiths International Response Scholarship (UK)

If you’ve been through tough times – maybe war, political problems, personal challenges, or had to leave your home – but still want to go to school, this is the scholarship you should go for.

It’s offered by Goldsmiths, University of London, and it’s open only to international students who want to go for either an undergraduate or a master’s degree.

The scholarship pays your full tuition and also gives you free accommodation worth £8,825 every year.

That’s a big help if you’re worried about how to afford living and studying in the UK.

Goldsmiths is all about supporting students with strong stories, not just strong grades.

If you’ve shown courage, worked hard, and kept going even when things were hard, they want to hear from you.

You don’t need to be perfect – just determined, honest, and hopeful about your future.

The university is in London, so while you study, you’ll also get to experience one of the most exciting cities in the world.

If life’s been hard but you’re still chasing your dreams, go for this scholarship.

Application link: https://www.gold.ac.uk.

St Cross College Scholarship at Oxford (UK)

Are you planning to do a master’s degree at Oxford but can’t afford it?

The St Cross College Scholarship will give you a way out. Although this scholarship doesn’t cover everything, it gives you £10,000 to put towards your tuition fees.

And that can take a big load off your shoulders.

Of course, the scholarship is for international students alone, however, it is based mostly on good academic results.

If you’ve done well in school and know why you want to study your chosen course, you’ve got a good shot.

Another cool part? If you get the scholarship, you’ll be first in line for student housing at St Cross College, one of the smaller and friendlier colleges at Oxford.

That makes settling into university life a lot easier, especially if it’s your first time studying abroad.

The application isn’t too hard, but the deadline comes up pretty fast after you get your offer from Oxford.

So, if you’re applying to Oxford anyway, apply for this scholarship too. A little extra funding can go a long way.

Application link: https://www.stx.ox.ac.uk/scholarships.

University of Bristol Think Big Scholarship (UK)

This is another scholarship that makes a lot of sense to me. Just like the last one, it is open to international students who are applying for an undergraduate or master’s degree program.

What’s great about it is that the scholarship can give you up to £20,000 to support your tuition fees.

Now, imagine if your course of study doesn’t cost up to that amount, it means you will have a lot remaining.

Another thing is that Bristol itself is a fun, student-friendly city with lots of opportunities and a welcoming vibe.

You will enjoy yourself here as a student. To be selected for this scholarship, the committee will look at your grades, your achievements, and what kind of impact you hope to make in the future.

They want to see your passion, your goals, and how you plan to use your education to do something meaningful.

Even though the scholarship won’t pay for everything like your living expenses, getting a big chunk off your tuition can help.

Application link: https://www.bristol.ac.uk.

University of East Anglia Full Fees Scholarship (UK)

This Full Fees Scholarship (by the University of East Anglia (UEA)) takes care of your entire tuition fee for a master’s degree – yes, all of it.

With it, you don’t have to worry about paying tuition fees or anything like that – just focus on your studies and graduate.

The scholarship is open to students from any country of the world – Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and wherever.

As long as you’re applying for a postgraduate program at UEA, you are eligible for this scholarship.

Another good thing is that UEA is a research-focused and student-friendly institution, and you quickly feel right at home.

The scholarship doesn’t cover your living costs, but getting your tuition fully paid is a huge win.

Plus, having a scholarship like this on your CV makes you stand out later on.

Application link: https://www.uea.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/scholarships

Other scholarships that you can check out include:

How to apply to study in UK on a fully funded scholarship

Now that you have seen why you need a scholarship to study in the UK, and you have also seen the list of scholarships we have here.

Let’s go over the full process, so you know exactly what to do from start to finish.

Even if you don’t like the scholarships we listed here, the UK has many others. Just search a little more and you’ll find other great ones that suit you.

Once you find the one that interests you, here’s exactly what to do:

First, check the scholarship and know if you need to apply for it before or after you get admission to study in the UK.

It is usually after getting admission, but don’t conclude until you check.

Step 1: Understand the scholarship application procedure

Every scholarship has its application procedure. For some scholarships, you need to apply for them before you get admission to study in the UK

In others, you can only apply for them immediately after getting admission to study in the UK.

In some cases, you automatically become eligible for the scholarship the moment you get admission to study at your chosen institution in the UK.

Check what works for the particular scholarship you have chosen.

If you need to secure admission first before you apply for the scholarship, then proceed and apply for admission to your chosen UK institution.

Step 2: Apply to study in the UK

If the scholarship says you must get admission first, then you need to start applying to a UK university.

There are many institutions in the UK, each has its own application procedure.

First, you need to check the institution that offers your chosen course of study and that you are cool with their way of doing things.

Secondly, you go through their admission requirements and apply for admission.

How do you apply for admission to a UK school?

Simple.

Go to the school’s website and check the entry requirements.
Prepare all the entry requirements including documents (transcripts, CV, personal statement, reference letters, etc).
Create an account on the university portal and submit your application.
To make sure you do everything on time, you should pay attention to deadlines and don’t wait till the last minute.

If you’re applying for a postgraduate course, make sure your undergraduate grades meet the school’s standard.

If you meet their admission requirements, your application will be considered, and you will likely be offered admission.

Step 3: Apply for the Scholarship

With your admission offer in hand (or if the scholarship doesn’t require one up front), you can then formally apply for the scholarship.

Here’s what to do:

Go to the scholarship portal.
Make sure that you are eligible for it.
Get all the documents you need for the scholarship (like admission letter, academic results, reference letters, personal statement, financial need statement, etc).
Fill out the application form and submit it before the deadline.

You should know that some scholarships will ask you for proof of leadership, volunteering, or work experience, so if you have them, it shows your value.

Step 4: You should prepare for possible interviews or tests

The truth is that most scholarships are competitive, especially the popular ones.

Their application process can involve interviews, written essays, or even short online tests.

Prepare for anything:

If you are shortlisted, they can contact you for an online interview.
In the interview, they will ask about your background, goals, why you chose the UK, and what makes you a good candidate.

Step 5: Wait for the scholarship result

Once you’ve submitted everything, give it some time. Most scholarship bodies will send you a confirmation email.

After that, it can take a few weeks or months to hear back.

Meanwhile:

Always check your email and spam folder to see if they have replied.
Make sure your phone number and contact info are correct.
If you applied to multiple scholarships (which you should), keep a list of what stage each one is at.

Step 6: Accept the scholarship offer

If you’re selected, congratulations! You’ll be sent a scholarship award letter.

Read the scholarship letter and follow all the instructions.

Some scholarships will ask you to:

Accept the offer in writing.
Fill out additional forms.
Provide proof of admission or visa.
Agree to certain conditions (e.g., returning to your home country after graduation).

Step 7: Apply for a UK Student Visa

You are almost there. Once you’ve secured both your admission and scholarship, it’s time to apply for your student visa.

Here’s what you’ll need:

A CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from your UK university.
Proof of your scholarship or financial support.
A valid passport.
Proof of English proficiency (not compulsory).
Tuberculosis test results (for students from countries like Nigeria).

To apply for your student visa, go to the UK government website and apply under the Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) category.

If your application meets the requirements for a visa, your application will be approved and you will be issued a UK student visa.

Step 8: Prepare for your travel

With your visa approved, you should start preparing to leave:

Book your flight (some scholarship covers your flight ticket).
Put all your travel documents (passport, visa, admission letter, scholarship letter) together.
Make sure you check your accommodation options (some scholarships include housing, others don’t).
Plan your arrival date and inform your school if they’re coming to pick you up.

If your scholarship includes living expenses, find out how and when they will be paid (monthly, termly, or upfront).

Step 9: Arrive in the UK

Once you arrive in the UK:

Attend your school’s orientation.
Settle into your accommodation.
Open a UK bank account.
Register with a local GP (doctor) for healthcare.
Meet with your scholarship officer if your award includes a local contact.

Most importantly, stay focused, and make the most of your stay in the UK.

Final advice

Don’t put all your hopes on just one scholarship. Apply for as many as you’re eligible for.

Even if you fail the first time, don’t give up. Many people apply 2 – 3 times before they finally win.

Do You Need More Help?

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Why Study in the UK?

The UK has one of the highest numbers of international students in the world

There are at least 4 UK universities in the top 10 spots in the current QS World University Rankings

The UK is the second most popular study destination globally, just after the US.

94% of international students in the UK report that they are satisfied with their study experience

Graduates from UK universities are among the most employable globally, with 83% landing jobs within 6 months.

London is home to 18 universities and was ranked the #1 Best Student City in the World last year by QS.

The UK Graduate Route allows international students to stay and work for up to 2 years after graduation (3 years for PhDs)