Studying in the UK

Studying in the UK can provide international students with excellent career prospects due to the high-quality education and valuable qualifications they receive. They can also develop sought-after skills and benefit from a vast network of industry connections.

The UK government's Graduate Immigration Route allows international students to remain in the UK and work for up to two years after graduation, providing an opportunity to gain work experience and establish themselves in the UK job market. Overall, international students who study in the UK can gain a competitive edge in the global job market.

The Student route replaced the Tier 4 visa on October 5th, 2020. As a student on a Tier 4 visa, you may work full-time only on a temporary contract but not on a permanent one. International students on a visa are allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time, while during the official vacation period, they can work full-time.

However, there are some restrictions, such as not being allowed to work in self-employment, own a business, work in the entertainment industry (paid or unpaid), or work in healthcare training unless enrolled in the foundation programme.

Students who meet the eligibility criteria may switch from a Tier 4 study visa to a Tier 2 (General) work visa according to the Home Office regulations.

To be eligible for the switch, they must satisfy several requirements regarding their course of study, job type, and salary.

As a full-time student or Tier 4 visa holder, you may bring your family with you to the UK as dependents if certain conditions are met.

These conditions include being government-sponsored and enrolled in a course lasting longer than six months, pursuing a postgraduate program lasting nine months or more, or holding a Doctorate Extension Scheme visa.

Individuals aged 16 or over may apply for a Student visa to pursue their studies in the United Kingdom, provided they meet specific requirements. These include having received an offer of admission from a licensed student sponsor, possessing adequate financial resources to cover their course expenses and living costs (which may vary depending on individual circumstances), demonstrating proficiency in English language skills, and obtaining parental consent if they are under the age of 18, for which evidence will be required during the application process.

For those aged 16 or 17 who intend to study at an independent school in the UK, the Child Student visa may be an appropriate option. It is worth noting that the Student visa has replaced the Tier 4 (General) student visa.