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You will probably need to apply for a student visa through the Student Route if you are 16 years of age or older and wish to enroll in a higher education course in the UK that lasts longer than six months.
Each applicant must pay £490 for this. Priority or super-priority services are more expensive.
More information on student visas
Please be aware that starting in January 2025, you will need to apply for an eVisa and register with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Your Student Visa
Step 1: Apply to Your Chosen University and Receive an Unconditional Offer
Get an unconditional offer by applying to the university or universities of your choice. Here check the list of some top ranked universities,
Explore top-ranked universities
Step 2: Get Your Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS)
A certificate known as a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) will be provided by your university after you have accepted your unconditional offer. The price of this will be £25.
You must give accurate information and steer clear of any mistakes or inconsistencies when including your details for the CAS letter and your visa application. If your CAS information does not match the information you provide in your visa application, your visa may be denied.
Requirements to get a CAS letter for the UK:
- Accept an unconditional offer.
- Pay required fees.
- Log onto the online portal and input necessary information.
Step 3: Begin the Application Process
Once you have your CAS, you can begin the visa application process. You can apply for your student visa up to six months before your course starts. You must pay an application fee (£490 for students) and have a current passport.
Step 4: Calculate Your Fee and Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
If you plan to study in the UK for longer than six months, you will be required to pay an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application.
For each full year you are in the UK, there will be a £776 annual surcharge for a student visa. You will be charged £388 for stays of one to six months and £776 for stays of six to twelve months if your stay in the UK includes a portion of a year.
How much leave you are given determines how much you must pay. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website has a fee calculator that you can use to determine how much you will be expected to pay.
Step 5: Prove Your Knowledge of the English Language (If Required)
You might be required to demonstrate your proficiency in English as part of your application for a student visa. Verify with your university what kind of English language proof they require, as different institutions have different requirements.
English language requirement for UK student visa from Pakistan depends on the level of study:
- Degree Level or Above: B2 English equivalent.
- Below Degree Level: B1 English equivalent.
The language requirement might not apply to you if you:
- Holding qualifications equivalent to a UK degree.
- Previously demonstrating English proficiency in a visa application.
Common tests accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE. Some universities may accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) as proof.
Step 6: Complete Your Application and Have It Accepted Before Traveling to the UK
Before you travel to the UK, your application must be finished and approved.
Financial Breakdown
There are various procedures and expenses involved in applying for a UK study visa from Pakistan. This thorough guide will assist you in comprehending the procedure and the 2025 financial requirements.
1. Visa Application Fee
- The standard fee for a UK student visa (Tier 4) is approximately £363 (around PKR 100,000).
- This fee is paid when you submit your online application.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- The IHS is an additional fee that allows you to access the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
- The cost is approximately £470 per year (around PKR 130,000), which is paid as part of your visa application.
- For courses longer than six months, you will need to pay for the entire duration of your stay.
3. Financial Requirements
- You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses.
- The required living costs are approximately £1,334 per month for up to 9 months (around PKR 370,000).
- Total funds required will vary based on your course duration and tuition fees.
4. Course Fees
The expense of pursuing education in the UK differs based on the university, program, and level of education:
- Undergraduate: International undergraduate program tuition fees range from £11,400–£38,000 annually.
- Postgraduate: International postgraduate program tuition fees range from £9,000–£30,000 each year.
- Specialized programs: Fields such as engineering or medicine might incur higher tuition costs.
Location: Tuition costs can differ based on the area of the UK in which you are studying. For instance, as of 2024, the necessary sum for a student visa is £12,006 annually for programs in London and £9,207 each year for programs outside of London.
5. Additional Costs
- TB Test Fee: Students from Pakistan must undergo a tuberculosis test, which costs around PKR 10,000.
- Biometric Appointment Fee: There may be a fee for the biometric appointment, typically around PKR 5,000.
- Document Preparation Costs: This includes obtaining necessary documents, translations, and other administrative fees, which vary widely.
6. Summary of Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | 100,000 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | 130,000 |
| Living Costs (9 months) | 370,000 |
| TB Test Fee | 10,000 |
| Biometric Appointment Fee | 5,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 615,000 |
Important Steps in the Application Process
- Choose your course and university.
- Obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
- Prepare your documents, including financial evidence.
- Complete the online application via the UK government website.
- Attend a biometrics appointment.
- Wait for a decision (up to three weeks).
How EdFolio Can Help You Obtain a UK Study Visa in Pakistan
Studying in the UK is a life-changing opportunity, but the visa process can be daunting. EdFolio, Pakistan’s trusted education partner, offers expert guidance to simplify your journey, providing personalized, step-by-step support to help you achieve your academic dreams.
From securing admission to top UK universities to navigating visas, EdFolio ensures a hassle-free process. We also assist with financial planning and post-arrival needs, like accommodation support, so you can focus on your studies while we handle the rest.
Final Words
Understanding the expenses and processes involved in applying for a UK study visa from Pakistan is important for a smooth experience. Plan your budget carefully, gather the necessary documents, and follow the outlined steps to increase your chances of success.
