UK Sets New Student Visa Requirements for International Students

The United Kingdom has announced the requirements for international students wishing to study in the country under the Student visa route. This route is available for individuals aged 16 and above who aim to pursue further or higher education, pre-sessional English courses, or recognized foundation programs at licensed institutions.

Prospective applicants can verify if their chosen institution has a valid sponsorship license by consulting the official register available on the UK government's website. Students aged 16 or 17 intending to study at an independent school on courses at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 3 or (SCQF) level 6 and above may apply under either the Student route or the Child Student route.

However, the Student visa does not apply to everyone; those wishing to complete a course of six months or less without a student sponsor must apply as a Visitor. Additionally, students can bring dependent partners and children, mainly if they are enrolled in postgraduate programs or government-sponsored schemes.

It is important to note that the Student visa does not lead to settlement in the UK.