Study in the UK

The UK's education system is ranked amongst the top ten in the world. There are several opportunities to study in the UK, whether you are a national of a foreign country, an EEA national, an adult or a child.

Post-Secondary

You may come to or remain in the UK as an adult student under the Tier 4 (General) visa category. This category is for persons aged 16 or older who wish to study a course at or above National Qualification Level 3. National Qualification Level 3 is a secondary education program (high school) which is appropriate for persons who wish to attend university. You may also study at a UK university under this category.

The Tier 4 (General) category is a points-based category. To be eligible, you must score at least 40 points on the points assessment test. The assessment test takes into account such factors as: your ability to speak the English language; your confirmed acceptance to a UK education provider; and your financial situation.

Elementary and Secondary Education

The Tier 4 (Child) visa category is for children between the ages of 4 and 17. Children between the ages of 4 and 15 are only eligible to attend independent fee-paying schools (private school where the student may be required to pay tuition). Tier 4 (Child) students may not study at UK public schools unless it is a publicly funded further education college (where international students may be required to pay tuition).

The Tier 4 (General) category is a points-based category. To be eligible, you must score at least 40 points on the points assessment test. The assessment test takes into account such factors as: your ability to speak the English language; your confirmed acceptance to a UK education provider; and your financial situation.

Student Visitor

The Student Visitor category is for adults, aged 18 or over, who would like to undertake a short course of study in the UK. You must be accepted into an accredited educational program to participate. You will apply under the Tier 4 (General) visa category. Issued visas are valid for a period of 6 months or less; however, 11 month visas are available for English language courses.

The Tier 4 (General) category is a points-based category. To be eligible, you must score at least 40 points on the points assessment test. The assessment test takes into account such factors as: your ability to speak the English language; your confirmed acceptance to a UK education provider; and your financial situation.

Child Visitor

The Child Visitor category is for children, under the age of 18, who would like to undertake a short course of study in the UK. You must be accepted into an accredited educational program to participate. You will apply under the VAF1D visa category. Issued visas are valid for a period of 6 months or less; however, 12 month visas are available for children accompanying an academic visitor.

Do I need a visa to travel to the UK?

You may not need a visa to study in the UK. The following people do not need a visa: