Stone Studio

How do all the changes affect me?

The changes only affect you if you need to extend your visa in the UK, or if you are applying overseas. You now need to get enough points to be eligible for a visa. This makes the process simpler, but also more rigid and strict. Your application is now more likely to be refused if you make a mistake.

Check your visa expiry date

If you will be starting a new course, check your current visa does not expire more than one month before the new course start date.
New rules prevent students who have finished a course applying for a visa extension in the UK for a new course if there is more than one month between the two courses. Your current visa should last until the beginning of your new course. If it doesn’t, please see Entry Clearance Correction Scheme advice .

New financial evidence required

You must have £1,200 or more plus your remaining course fees in a bank account in your name (unless you are officially sponsored by a government, government agency, an international organisation, company or university).

Before the 30 September 2009, the money only needs to be in the account on the day of application.

After 30 September 2009, the money must have been in your account for at least 28 days.

Bank statements can be printed up to 28 days before the date of application.

If you are in receipt of official sponsorship, you will need a letter from your sponsor with full details of the amount you will receive. Your sponsor must also consent to you extending your time in the UK. If you have a sponsor’s letter, you do not need to provide bank statements.

Main changes:

• you can no longer use financial evidence from family and friends who are supporting you.
• you must have a bank account in your name with the correct money. If the money is in foreign currency, you must write on the equivalent in £ sterling. You must use OANDA to make the conversion.
• Documents that are not in English must be sent with a fully certified translation by a professional translator.

Fees increased

Postal applications (tier 4 student):
£357 + £50 for each dependant

Applications in person (tier 4 student):
£565 + £50 for each dependant

Further information

The UK Council for International Student Affairs has helpful information.

For official policy documents and more detailed information, visit the UK Border Agency website.