Recently, UK immigration authorities said that one of the main reasons student visas get rejected is incomplete or incorrectly filled-out applications.
This means you can increase your chances of getting approval by simply filling out your form correctly.
How sweet is that?
The thing with your UK student visa application is that; if you miss even a small detail, like leaving out information or a date, the authorities will consider it incomplete and reject it.
I’ll be frank with you; every part of the application (especially sections marked “required”) is important, and the immigration authorities are strict with these details.
To avoid issues, follow these steps and fill out your form correctly.
How to fill UK student visa application form
If you’ve filled out a UK student visa form before, you’ll agree it’s a lot of work – (over 60 pages).
However, as daunting as it is, you must do it right.
To get started:
Step 1: Check the form requirements
From my experience, this is very crucial – do this first before you begin filling out the form.
Go through the whole form, and get all the requirements ready – the documents, the information, everything!
Read also: How can I host a foreign exchange student?
Most UK schools have a sample of this form on their website – the form is the same everywhere except for a few changes.
You can get the one from Bangor University here.
In addition to reviewing the visa requirements, you’re advised to go through the details shared by the UK immigration authorities here: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa.
There, you’ll find information the authorities want you to know before starting the form.
You also need to know that the application form is tailored to each person based on their situation.
Even though you’re all applying for the same student visa, there are differences based on your circumstances.
Finally, click “save” frequently. Click “Save & Quit” to stop and continue late.
Step 2: Have your documents with you
While filling out the form, you’ll be asked to attach different documents.
From proof of funds, birth certificate, current passport, Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), Tuberculosis test results, proof of parental or other legal guardian consent (if under 18), evidence of your relationship to your parent or guardian (if under 18) and proof of language proficiency.
Get them ready before you start.
Depending on your institution and circumstances, you’ll need more documents – like if you’re married and your spouse is coming with you, you’ll need proof of marriage.
Keep your documents in the accepted format and size.
Step 3: Create an account on the UK Government website
Go to the official UK visa and immigration website.
If you don’t already have an account, create one.
With your account, you can save your progress and come back later to finish the application.
The UK authorities have made it easy – you can access all the details online and save your work as you go.
You don’t need to complete the form in one sitting.
Step 4: Start the application
The form is divided into different parts.
If you want to start, select the student visa type you’re applying for.
Other information like personal data will follow.
The form walks you through each detail, just put the information required.
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After selecting your student visa type, you will choose a country for your biometrics
Next is to provide your personal information.
Personal information
- Register your email and create a password.
- Put your full name, date of birth, and nationality.
- Add your contact details.
Passport and travel information
- Put your passport number, date of issue, and expiration date.
- Include details of any previous UK visas you’ve held.
- State your intended travel date to the UK.
Course information
You also need to provide information about your course – which you’ll find in your CAS letter.
Enter your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number.
Include your course name, level, and duration.
Provide financial evidence
To get your UK student visa, you must show that you have enough money to support yourself.
You can do this by providing bank statements or a letter from your financial sponsor.
If you’re using your parent’s bank statement, include:
- Bank statement or certificate of deposit which shows the amount available.
- Proof of relationship like birth certificate or family register.
- Letter of permission from your parent.
Check the acceptable ways to show proof of funds here.
Accommodation details
Include details about where you’ll be staying in the UK.
If you haven’t secured accommodation yet, include details about where you plan to stay.
English language proficiency
Attach evidence of your English language skills.
Read also: 10 pros and cons of hosting a foreign exchange student
It can be your IELTS score, a degree taught in English, or another recognized qualification.
Biometric Information
You’ll do your biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph) at the UK government commercial partners (visa application centre) in your country.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
You’ll pay the immigration health surcharge – it’s part of your application.
Once paid, you can access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
The amount you’ll pay depends on the length of your course.
In addition, pay the visa application fee and select the point of collection of your BRP.
You’ll collect your BRP within 10 days of arriving in the UK however, when your visa is approved, you’ll receive a decision letter – which you’ll use to get the BRP.
Step 5: Attach all required documents
As you fill out the form, attach your documents to the space provided for each.
Ensure you have all the documents, and that they are up to date
Every document is important and missing any will delay your application or lead to a visa rejection.
Step 6: Review your applicationÂ
Once you finish the application and attach all the required documents.
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Carefully review everything once more.
Check all the information you’ve entered – to ensure they’re accurate and complete.
Before you submit, you can have someone else check the form for you.
I believe, two heads are better than one. Submission is done online.
Step 7: Book a biometric appointment
Upon completing your application, you’ll book an appointment for your biometric collection.
Please, print your application form.
You’ll need it for the biometrics.
Come for the biometrics with other supporting documents including your appointment confirmation letter.
When you conclude the biometrics, the authorities will start processing your application.
Processing takes several weeks, therefore, give it time.
When a decision is made, you’ll be notified via email.
If successful, your application will be approved and your passport stamped with the visa vignette.
Sample of UK Student visa application form
You can get samples of the UK student visa application form from your chosen UK institution.
Each institution has a sample of the form on its website, plus information on how to apply.
They, each, have specific requirements and rules they want their prospective students to follow.
Read also: Can I change my college after 1st semester in Canada?
You can check your institution to get a sample.
For Bangor University, you can find the visa form sample here.
Tips
If you want to succeed with your application:
- Start early: Apply immediately after you get your CAS.
- Be honest: In your application form and other details, ensure you’re honest, and avoid making false claims.
- Avoid errors: Before you submit, double-check all information and documents – make sure they’re correct.
- Follow instructions: Follow every guideline given to you by the authorities when applying.
If you keep the rules here, you’ll submit a complete application and increase your chances of success.
Good luck!
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