There are two categories under Tier 4:
Tier 4 (General) - This category is for students coming to the UK for post-16 education. A Tier 4 (General) student must be at least 16 years old.
Tier 4 (Child) - This category is for children between 4 and 17 years old coming to the UK for their education. This route can only be used by those studying at independent schools.
Where documents are requested, you should provide originals unless we specifically state otherwise. Where these documents are not in English you may need to provide a translation.
How do I apply for my visa?
1.Go to www.visa4UK.fco.gov.uk to complete your visa application form, book an appointment and pay your visa fee online.
2.Prepare your application package including a printed and signed copy of your application form,your supporting documents, your passport and a passport style photo.
3.Visit the visa application centre to submit your application and biometric data at the time of your appointment. You may also be required to sit a short interview.
How long will it take to get my visa?
We aim to process student visas within 15 working days. We recommend that you prepare and apply for your visa well in advance, but no more than 3 months before you intend to travel.
Some countries offer a 3–5 day priority visa service for an additional fee. Check your visa application centre website for information on available priority services www.gov.uk/find-a-visa-application-centre
How long can I stay in the UK?
Your visa will be granted for the whole length of your course. The maximum amount of time you can spend studying is two years below degree level since the age of 18, plus five years at degree level and above, with some exceptions.
Time spent studying as a Tier 4 (General) student when you were 16 or 17 years old, or a Tier (Child) student when you were aged 17 or under is not included.
Can I work in the UK?
This will depend on the level of the course you are applying to study and the type of sponsor you have. Further information is on our website www.gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa
Can I stay and work in the UK after completing my course?
There are a number of options available if you wish to stay in the UK to work after your studies:
• The Doctorate Extension Scheme for students successfully completing a PhD or other doctoral qualifications at a higher education institution
• Tier 2 (General) for those with a graduate-level job offer which pays an appropriate salary
• Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) for those who want to develop a business idea
• Tier 5 for those undertaking professional training
• Tier 5 (Internship)
Not all further education students are able to extend their visa or switch to another visa route whilst they are in the UK – they will have to leave the UK to make such an application.
Can I bring my partner and children with me?
Only the following students will be able to bring their partners and children to the UK:
• Postgraduate students at higher education institutions on courses of 12 months or more
• Government sponsored students on courses lasting longer than 6 months
Can my parent accompany me while I study in the UK?
There is a visa route which allows a parent to accompany a child 12 years or younger and is attending an independent fee paying day school.
Can I extend my visa in the UK?
Yes you can.
You can only apply to extend your leave to study at your current sponsor, or at another sponsor, if your current period of Tier 4 leave is sponsored by:
• a Higher Education Institute (HEI);
• an overseas HEI; or
• an embedded college offering pathway courses.
If you are currently sponsored by any other type of institution you must apply for a visa from outside of the UK if you wish to undertake further study under Tier 4.
You can make your application online and make an appointment to submit your biometrics at locations throughout Great Britain.