Hello, one of the biggest challenges of deciding to move to the UK is understanding the visa rules and determining which visa is the best fit for your situation. This topic is quite complex, so I’m going to break it down into several posts, dedicating more time to each visa type.
Let’s start with, arguably, the simplest visa available: the Student Visa. If you’re considering studying in the UK, the Student Visa is essential for international students. In this post, we’ll explore the application process, eligibility requirements, and tips for securing your Student Visa efficiently. Understanding these critical aspects will pave the way for a successful educational journey in the UK.
To obtain a student visa, you must be accepted by a recognized UK university. The UK hosts a diverse range of universities, each with unique advantages and disadvantages, similar to any education system globally. I have compiled valuable resources to assist prospective students in identifying which universities to apply to in the UK.
https://www.ukscholarships.uk/blog/45-cheap-universities-in-uk-for-international-students
https://amberstudent.com/blog/post/best-universities-in-uk-for-international-students
https://www.wayupabroad.com/blog/list-of-uk-universities
Now, once you have gotten the student visa, you have to understand what it allows you to do and what it doesn’t. It does:
-Allow you to access the NHS services (you did pay the health surcharge, after all)
-Enter and leave the UK
-Work part time in conjunction with your studies as an international student in the UK. THIS PART IS CRUCIAL: YOU CAN WORK UP TO 20 HOURS PER WEEK DURING TERM TIME. They mean by the minute, as in: exceeding this time limit for any reason could jeopardize your visa status or even lead to revocation. DO NOT TRY TO OUTSMART THE SYSTEM. During university break periods like Christmas and Spring Break, the work hours limit is lifted, but you must provide your employer with a confirmation from your university granting permission to work full-time. This emphasis is necessary due to ongoing political discourse in the UK where concerns have been raised that some foreign students may prioritize employment over their studies, thereby taking job opportunities away from local residents. While I won’t delve into the political implications of this topic, it’s worth noting that both the previous Tory government and the Labour party have expressed similar concerns. Regardless of merit, the rules have to be followed by all those on a Student Visa: no exceptions unless otherwise stated by your university.
The student visa, once you complete your Masters Degree, can then be changed into a Graduate Visa. I might make a short post on that one but it will be quite short as the Graduate Visa is kind of straightforward.
Let me know if you have any questions on the student visa. It is relatively straightforward, but if you have the funds and adhere to the requirements to apply, it is not too complicated.
Thanks for reading.
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