People who have secured a place to
study on a full-time basis at some form of educational
institution may enter the UK as a student. In practice,
at least 15 hours a week must be spent in study and
the student must be able to meet the cost of the course,
maintenance and accommodation without working. However,
those on student visas may work 20 hours/week during
term time and 40 hours/week during holidays. Normally
there are no restrictions on a spouse and children
working in the UK, if the student will be studying
longer than one year.
Candidates wishing to enter the UK on a student visa
should make it clear to any immigration and visa officers
that they intend to return 'home' at the end of their
studies.
Candidates from visa-national countries (those who
need a visa even for entry to the UK as a visitor)
must apply for a student visa at the British Embassy/Consulate/High
commission in their home country. Other candidates
have the option of presenting the relevant documents
to the Immigration Officer on entry, or may apply
from within the UK to switch from another category
to that of Student.
Student visas are normally granted for an initial
period of one year, usually determined by the length
of the course to be studied.
Candidates who have not already chosen and been accepted
in a course of study may apply for entry as a Prospective
Student.
Medical and dental graduates seeking post-graduate
training or further studies can normally gain entry
to the UK on a student visa. Those training within
the medical profession may also visit the UK to undertake
exams as a visitor and having passed these exams can
switch to a training visa in country.
