UK Student Visa Guide for Indians | Requirements, Documents & Attestation
UK Study Visa
UK Student Visa for Indian Students
The UK Student Visa – also called the UK Student Route Visa or UK Study Visa – is the official long-term residence permission issued by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that allows international students aged 16 and above to study full-time at a UK-licensed university, college, or institution for the duration of their course. Over 1 lakh Indian students apply for a UK student visa from India every year, making India one of the largest sources of international students in the United Kingdom. Whether you are a fresh graduate, a working professional, or a school leaver from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, or any other Indian state, this complete guide covers everything you need to know to apply for a UK student visa from India in 2026.
India is classified under the UK’s low-risk differentiation arrangements, which means Indian students applying for a UK study visa are generally not required to upload all financial or academic documents during the initial online application. However, all UK student visa eligibility requirements must still be fully met. Documents must be held ready at all times, as UKVI can request them during processing at any stage.
2026 Update – eVisa Now Mandatory: From 2025 onwards, all UK international student visa applicants receive a digital eVisa – a secure online record of immigration status linked to a personal UKVI account – replacing the physical Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card. Applicants must create a UKVI account to access, manage, and share their British student visa status. GloboPrime India assists with all supporting document attestation and preparation from our Chennai office. Call us on +91 44 4203 3480 to get started.
Types of UK Student Visa for Indian Citizens
The UK offers three main study visa categories for Indian students. Which UK student visa you need depends on your age, the length of your course, and the nature of your studies. Understanding the right visa type is the first step before you begin your UK student visa application from India.
| Visa Type | Who It Is For | Fee (2026) | Work Rights |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK Student Visa (General / Student Route) | Indian students aged 16+ enrolled in full-time courses lasting more than 6 months at a licensed UK university or college sponsor | £524 (approx. INR 63,500) | 20 hrs/week during term; full time during holidays |
| Child Student Visa | Students aged 4 to 17 attending an independent fee-paying school in England or the UK with a licensed student sponsor | £524 (approx. INR 63,500) | Not permitted |
| Short-Term Study Visa | Students enrolled in English language courses lasting between 6 and 11 months in the UK | £214 (approx. INR 25,900) | Not permitted; no extensions or dependants allowed |
Note: The UK Student Route Visa is the direct successor to the old UK Tier 4 (General) Student Visa. The eligibility requirements and conditions are largely the same. If you previously held a Tier 4 visa and are returning to study in the UK, you apply under the Student Route.
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UK Student Visa Eligibility for Indian Students – Who Can Apply
Understanding who can apply for a UK student visa from India is essential before you begin. The UK student visa eligibility criteria are set by the UK Home Office and apply to all Indian citizens applying for the UK student route visa. You must meet all of the following UK student visa conditions to qualify:
1. Age Requirement – 16 or Over
The UK student visa age requirement for the General Route is 16 years or above at the time of application. Students aged 16 or 17 must additionally provide written parental or guardian consent as part of the application. Students aged 4 to 17 wishing to attend an independent school in the UK apply for a Child Student Visa instead of the General Student Route.
2. Unconditional Offer and CAS from a Licensed UK Sponsor
The most critical UK student visa university requirement is a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK educational institution that is a UKVI-licensed student sponsor. You cannot apply for a UK student visa without a CAS. The CAS is a unique alphanumeric reference number that confirms your admission, course details, start date, duration, and tuition fees. Your CAS must be obtained from your UK university or college before you begin the UK student visa application process. UK student visa sponsor requirements mean only institutions on the UKVI Register of Licensed Sponsors can issue a valid CAS.
3. UK Student Visa Course Requirements
The UK student visa course requirements specify that the programme of study must be at a recognised level of the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). For the General Student Route, the course must be full-time and last longer than 6 months if taught in the UK. The course must be provided by a licensed UKVI sponsor institution. You cannot study at a state-funded school or local authority-funded school (maintained school) on a Student Visa.
4. UK Student Visa Financial Requirement – Proof of Funds
The UK student visa financial requirement for Indian students means you must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover both your unpaid tuition fees for the first year and your maintenance (living costs) for up to 9 months. The UK student visa maintenance funds requirement in 2026 is: £1,529 per month for London (£13,761 for 9 months, approximately INR 16.7 lakh) or £1,171 per month for outside London (£10,539 for 9 months, approximately INR 12.8 lakh). The money must be held in your or your parents’ bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying. This is a mandatory UK student visa bank balance requirement – failing to meet it results in refusal even if all other criteria are satisfied.
5. English Language Proficiency
The UK student visa English requirement means you must demonstrate that you can speak, read, write, and understand English at the level required for your course. This is satisfied through a Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by UKVI, such as IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic for UKVI, or TOEFL iBT. The UK student visa IELTS requirement varies by course level but is typically 5.5 to 7.0 overall. Some programmes require B1 or B2 level English on the CEFR scale. Indian students whose previous study was entirely in English may be able to have the English language requirement waived – check with your specific UK university whether your CBSE or ICSE English results are accepted as proof of English proficiency.
6. Tuberculosis (TB) Test – Mandatory for Indian Applicants
Indian students applying for a UK student visa for a course lasting more than 6 months must undergo a mandatory TB screening test at a UKVI-approved clinic in India. The TB test certificate is a required UK student visa document for Indian students and must be submitted as part of the application. Approved TB test clinics are located in Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Bathinda, and Thiruvananthapuram. The test costs approximately INR 2,500 to INR 3,000 and results are valid for 6 months from the date of the test.
7. ATAS Certificate (for Certain Research Courses)
Indian students applying for courses in specific sensitive subjects including advanced engineering, physical sciences, certain biological sciences, and military technologies require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) clearance certificate from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office before the UK study visa can be issued. Check with your university whether your specific course requires ATAS.
CAS for UK Student Visa – What Indian Students Need to Know
The CAS – Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies – is the single most important document in the UK student visa application process for Indian students. Without a valid CAS from a UK university, the UK student visa application cannot be started. Here is everything Indian students need to know about the CAS for UK student visa.
What Is a CAS Letter for UK Student Visa?
A CAS is not a physical letter but a unique CAS number (a 14-character alphanumeric reference) issued through the UKVI Sponsor Management System by your UK university. When you apply for your UK student visa online, you enter this CAS number in the application form. The CAS document for your UK visa contains your full name as in your passport, your course title and level, the course start and end dates, the tuition fees, any conditions attached to your offer, and confirmation that the institution is a licensed UKVI sponsor.
How to Get a CAS from a UK University – Process for Indians
The UK university CAS process for Indian students works as follows: (1) Apply to your chosen UK university and receive an unconditional offer of admission. (2) Accept the offer and complete any pre-CAS conditions your university requires (such as submitting your academic transcripts, English language test results, or financial declarations). (3) The university assigns and sends you your CAS number through their student portal or by email. You cannot request a CAS from the university until they are satisfied that all pre-CAS requirements are met.
UK Student Visa CAS Requirements – Key Facts
The UK student visa CAS requirements you must know are: (1) Your CAS is valid for 6 months from the date it is assigned – you must submit your visa application within this period. (2) The CAS costs £25 – charged by your UK university, not UKVI. (3) Your CAS must be in an unused state – a CAS that has already been used for a previous visa application or withdrawn by the university cannot be reused. (4) One CAS is assigned per student per course – if you change your course or institution, a new CAS must be issued.
Can You Apply for a UK Student Visa Without a CAS?
No. It is not possible to apply for a UK student visa without a CAS number. The CAS number is a mandatory field in the online UK student visa application form and the application cannot be submitted without it. If your CAS has not yet been assigned by your university, you must wait until you receive it before starting your UK study visa application.
UK Student Visa Financial Requirement for Indian Students – Bank Balance and Funds Proof
The UK student visa financial requirement is one of the most searched – and most misunderstood – aspects of the UK study visa process for Indian students. This section covers exactly how much bank balance you need for a UK student visa from India, what counts as acceptable financial evidence, and the 28-day rule that catches many applicants off guard.
How Much Money Do You Need for a UK Student Visa from India in 2026?
| Study Location | Monthly Living Cost Requirement | 9-Month Total (GBP) | 9-Month Total (Approx. INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| London (City of London + 32 London Boroughs) | £1,529 per month | £13,761 | approx. INR 16.7 lakh |
| Outside London (Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leeds, etc.) | £1,171 per month | £10,539 | approx. INR 12.8 lakh |
These maintenance funds for UK student visa are in addition to your unpaid first-year tuition fees. For most Indian students the first-year tuition fee at a UK university ranges from £10,000 to £30,000 (approximately INR 12 lakh to INR 36 lakh). You must therefore show the tuition fee amount plus the 9-month maintenance amount together in your bank account.
The 28-Day Rule – Critical UK Student Visa Bank Statement Requirement for Indians
The UK student visa bank balance for Indian students must have been held continuously for at least 28 consecutive days before the date of your visa application. The end of that 28-day holding period must fall no more than one month before the date you submit your application. This means: (1) Calculate your application date. (2) Count back 28 days – your funds must have been in the account since that date without dropping below the required amount at any point. (3) The statement must show the balance at the close of business on the 28th day. Indian applicants on the low-risk list typically do not upload bank statements during the initial application, but must hold the correct amount and be prepared to submit statements if UKVI requests them.
Acceptable UK Student Visa Financial Evidence for Indian Students
- Bank account statements in the applicant’s or parents’ name showing the required balance held for 28 consecutive days
- Fixed deposit certificates showing the amount is accessible (not locked without notice)
- Official scholarship letter confirming funding that covers tuition fees and living costs for the full course duration
- Student loan letter from an officially recognised student loan company covering the required amounts
- UK government or international scholarship award letters (such as Chevening or Commonwealth Scholarships)
Important: The UK student visa financial proof India requirement is one of the top reasons for UK student visa refusals among Indian students. Even if you are on the low-risk list and do not upload documents, UKVI verifies financial compliance during processing. Funds that drop below the required threshold even once during the 28-day window result in automatic refusal of the UK study visa.
UK Student Visa English Language Requirement – IELTS, SELT, and Exemptions for Indians
The UK student visa English requirement is a mandatory condition for Indian students applying for the Student Route Visa. You must demonstrate English language proficiency at a level appropriate for your course. The UK student visa language requirement can be satisfied through several routes:
Approved Secure English Language Tests (SELT) for UK Student Visa
| Test | Typical Minimum Score (Undergraduate) | CEFR Level | Approx. Cost in India |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS for UKVI (Academic) | Overall 5.5 to 7.0 (no band below 5.5) | B2 | approx. INR 17,000 – INR 20,000 |
| PTE Academic for UKVI | 51 to 65 overall | B2 | approx. INR 15,900 – INR 18,000 |
| TOEFL iBT | 72 to 95 overall | B2 | approx. INR 20,000 – INR 23,000 |
| Cambridge English (C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency) | 169 to 185 overall | B2 to C2 | approx. INR 15,000 – INR 20,000 |
UK Student Visa Without IELTS – When Indian Students Are Exempt
Some Indian students can get a UK student visa without IELTS if their previous degree or school education was delivered and assessed entirely in English. Many UK universities accept Class 12 CBSE or ICSE English results as proof of English proficiency for undergraduate applications, effectively allowing you to apply for a UK study visa without taking a separate English test. However, this exemption is granted at each university’s discretion – it is not a blanket UKVI rule. You must confirm with your specific UK university whether your Indian English-medium qualification qualifies before relying on it.
B1 vs B2 requirement: The UK student visa B2 English requirement applies to degree-level courses (undergraduate and postgraduate). The UK student visa B1 English requirement applies to some below-degree level courses and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programmes. Always check your specific course’s English requirement with your university before booking a language test.
UK Student Visa Documents Checklist for Indian Students 2026
The following is the complete UK student visa document list for Indian applicants in 2026. While Indian students on the low-risk list are not required to upload all of these during the online application, every document must be available and accurate, as UKVI may request any of them during the processing of your UK study visa application.
Mandatory UK Student Visa Documents for Indian Students
- Valid Indian Passport: Original passport for UK student visa with at least one blank page. Must be valid for the full duration of your course. If your passport is close to expiry, renew it before applying for the UK study visa.
- CAS Number and Supporting CAS Documents: Your 14-character CAS number from your UK university or college. Keep the email or letter confirming your CAS, your offer letter, and any pre-CAS documents issued by your institution.
- UK Student Visa Bank Statement (Proof of Funds): Bank statements or fixed deposit certificates showing the required maintenance funds held for at least 28 consecutive days. For London study: £13,761 minimum. For outside London study: £10,539 minimum. Plus unpaid first-year tuition fees on top of this amount.
- English Language Test Certificate: IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge English results meeting your university’s minimum score. Or evidence of English-medium previous education as accepted by your institution.
- TB Test Certificate (UK Student Visa TB Test India): Medical certificate from a UKVI-approved clinic confirming a negative TB result. Required for all Indian students applying for courses lasting more than 6 months. Valid for 6 months from the test date.
- UK Student Visa Academic Documents: Transcripts, mark sheets, and degree certificates from your previous studies in India – Class 10, Class 12, undergraduate degree as applicable. These are referenced in your CAS and may be requested by UKVI.
- Passport-Size Photographs: Colour photographs against a plain cream or light grey background meeting UK visa photo specifications (45mm x 35mm).
- UK Student Visa Parental Consent Documents: Required if you are 16 or 17 years old. A signed parental consent letter from both parents or legal guardians confirming their consent for you to study in the UK.
- ATAS Certificate: Required only for specific research-based and sensitive subject courses. Issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Check with your university whether your course requires ATAS clearance before applying for your UK student route visa.
Document attestation for UK student visa from India: If your Indian academic documents need to be submitted to a UK university, professional body, or UKVI in an attested or translated format, GloboPrime India handles MEA Apostille, degree certificate attestation, and certified translation services from India with free pickup and delivery in Chennai. Call us on +91 44 4203 3480.
UK Student Visa Fees for Indian Students – Complete Cost Breakdown 2026
The total cost of a UK student visa for Indian students in 2026 is made up of several components. Understanding the full UK study visa cost for Indians before you apply helps you budget accurately and avoids surprises. The UK student visa application fee was updated from £490 to £524 on 9 April 2025.
| UK Student Visa Fee Component | Cost (GBP) | Approx. Cost (INR) | Paid To |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK Student Visa application fee (outside UK) | £524 | approx. INR 63,500 | UK Government (gov.uk) |
| UK Student Visa Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) – per year | £776 per year | approx. INR 94,000 per year | UK Government (paid with visa fee) |
| UK Student Visa Priority Service (5 working days) | £500 extra | approx. INR 60,500 | VFS Global India |
| UK Student Visa Super Priority (next working day) | £1,000 extra | approx. INR 1,21,000 | VFS Global India |
| TB Test India (mandatory for courses over 6 months) | £25 – £30 | approx. INR 2,500 – INR 3,000 | UKVI-approved clinic in India |
| IELTS / PTE Academic Test India | £150 – £200 | approx. INR 17,000 – INR 24,000 | Test centre in India |
| CAS Fee (charged by UK university) | £25 | approx. INR 3,000 | UK university directly |
| Short-Term Study Visa (English language courses 6-11 months) | £214 | approx. INR 25,900 | UK Government (gov.uk) |
| UK Student Visa Extension / Switch (from inside UK) | £524 | approx. INR 63,500 | UK Government (gov.uk) |
Total UK student visa cost estimate for Indian students (1-year Master’s course outside London): Visa fee £524 + IHS £776 + TB test £28 + IELTS £175 + CAS £25 = approximately £1,528 (approx. INR 1.85 lakh) in visa-related fees alone, before tuition and maintenance funds. For a 3-year undergraduate degree, multiply the IHS by 3, giving a total of approximately £2,903 (approx. INR 3.5 lakh) in fees. Always check the official UK Government fee calculator on gov.uk for the most current UK student visa fees before applying.
How to Apply for UK Student Visa from India – Step by Step Process
The UK student visa application process for Indian students is entirely online and managed through the official UK Government website (gov.uk) and VFS Global India. Follow this step-by-step guide to apply for a UK student visa from India without errors or delays.
- Apply to your UK university and receive an unconditional offer: Apply to a UKVI-licensed UK university or college. Once admitted unconditionally and you accept the offer, your institution begins the CAS assignment process. Do not apply for your UK study visa before receiving your CAS number.
- Receive your CAS for UK student visa: Your CAS number will be sent by your university once all pre-CAS conditions are met. The CAS is valid for 6 months from the issue date. Your visa application must be submitted within this period. You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date.
- Take your English language test: Book and sit your IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT at an approved centre in India. Allow sufficient time for results – IELTS results take 5 to 13 days. Confirm whether your university accepts your test results or whether your previous English-medium schooling qualifies as an exemption.
- Complete your TB test at a UKVI-approved clinic in India: Book a TB test appointment in Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, or another approved city. The TB certificate is a mandatory UK student visa document for Indian students applying for courses over 6 months. Results take 2 to 5 days and are valid for 6 months.
- Ensure your maintenance funds are in place (28-day rule): Confirm the required UK student visa bank balance for India is held in your or your parents’ account for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than one month before your application date. Keep bank statements or FD certificates ready even if you will not upload them.
- Submit your UK student visa online application: Go to gov.uk and complete the UK student visa apply online form. Enter your CAS number and all required details. Pay the UK student visa application fee (£524) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) (£776 per year) online using a Visa or Mastercard. Your UK student visa application date is the date the fee is paid.
- Book your UK student visa VFS appointment in India: After submitting the online form and paying fees, book a biometric appointment at your nearest VFS Global UK Visa Application Centre in India – Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, or Chandigarh. Bring your original Indian passport. Your fingerprints and photograph are taken at this appointment.
- Wait for your UK student visa decision: Standard UK student visa processing time from India is 3 weeks (15 working days) from your biometric appointment. Priority service: 5 working days. Super Priority: next working day. Track your application status through the VFS Global SMS alert service or online tracking system.
- Set up your UKVI account and access your eVisa: If approved, you receive a decision email with instructions to create or log into your UKVI account to access your digital eVisa. There is no physical visa sticker in your passport for the UK student route visa from 2025 onwards. Use your eVisa to prove your right to study in the UK at the border, to your university, and to employers.
When to apply for a UK student visa from India: You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date. You can arrive in the UK up to 1 month before your course begins (for courses over 6 months) or up to 1 week before (for courses of 6 months or less). Never book travel to the UK before your UK study visa has been approved.
UK Student Visa Processing Time India – Timeline and Fast Track Options
The UK student visa processing time for Indian students depends on which service option you choose at VFS Global India. India benefits from more VFS centres and faster priority services than most other countries, making the UK student visa timeline for Indian applicants more flexible than many students realise.
| Service Type | UK Student Visa Processing Time India | Additional Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Service | 3 weeks (15 working days) from biometric appointment | Included in visa fee | Applicants applying 2+ months before travel date |
| UK Student Visa Priority Service India | 5 working days | £500 extra (approx. INR 60,500) | Applicants with course starting within 4-6 weeks |
| UK Student Visa Fast Track (Super Priority) India | Next working day decision | £1,000 extra (approx. INR 1,21,000) | Urgent cases; course starting imminently |
| Extension / Switch (from inside UK) | 8 weeks | £524 application fee | Students already in UK extending studies |
UK student visa delay India: Processing may take longer than 3 weeks if UKVI needs to verify your supporting documents, if you are called for a credibility interview, or if your personal circumstances require additional review. If there is any UK student visa delay, contact your university immediately – many allow late arrivals of up to 2 weeks. Do not book non-refundable travel until your UK student visa approval has been confirmed.
UK Student Visa VFS Centres in India – Appointments and Locations
UK student visa biometric appointments in India are handled exclusively by VFS Global – the official UK Visas and Immigration partner in India. India has over 10 UK Visa Application Centres (VACs), making the UK student visa VFS India appointment booking process more accessible than in most countries. Book your UK student visa appointment India through the VFS Global website after completing the online application and paying fees.
| City | VFS Global UK Visa Centre Address |
|---|---|
| New Delhi | Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Mezzanine Level, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110001 |
| Mumbai | 4th Floor, Urmi Axis Building, Behind Famous Studio, Opp. E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai – 400011 |
| Chennai | 5th Floor, Fagun Mansion, Ethiraj Salai, Egmore, Chennai – 600008 |
| Kolkata | 4th Floor, Rene Tower, Plot No. AA-I, 1842, Rajdanga Main Road, Kasba, Kolkata – 700107 |
| Chandigarh | C-313, B-3rd Floor, Elante, Industrial Area Phase 1, Chandigarh – 160002 |
| Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Kochi | VFS Global centres available. Visit vfsglobal.com to confirm current addresses and UK student visa appointment India availability in your city. |
Work Rights on UK Student Visa for Indian Students
One of the most common questions from Indian students is whether they can work on a UK student visa. The UK student visa work rules for Indian students allow part-time employment during term time and full-time work during university holidays, subject to the conditions below.
| Situation | UK Student Visa Part-Time Work Rules India |
|---|---|
| Degree-level course (undergraduate or postgraduate) – term time | Up to 20 hours per week – Indian students on UK student visa can work up to 20 hours during term |
| Degree-level course – during official university holidays | Full time – no weekly hour limit applies |
| Below degree-level course – term time | Up to 10 hours per week only |
| Approved internships or work placements that are part of your course | Permitted as an integral part of your course requirements |
| Self-employment or freelance work | Not permitted on a UK student visa |
| Professional sports, sports coaching | Not permitted |
| Claiming UK public funds (benefits, pensions) | Not permitted |
To work in the UK on a student visa, Indian students need a National Insurance (NI) Number and must provide evidence of their right to work (their eVisa). Violating the UK student visa work rules – such as working more than 20 hours per week during term – is a breach of visa conditions and can result in curtailment of your UK student visa and a ban on future UK visa applications.
UK Post Study Work Visa for Indians – Graduate Route After Graduation
The UK Graduate Visa – also called the UK post-study work visa (PSW) for Indian students – allows international students who have successfully completed a UK degree to stay and work in the UK without needing a job offer. The UK Graduate Visa after study in the UK is one of the most significant reasons Indian students choose the UK over other destinations. Here are the latest UK student visa after graduation rules for Indians:
| Qualification Completed | UK PSW Visa Duration (apply by 31 Dec 2026) | UK PSW Visa Duration (apply from 1 Jan 2027) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree (undergraduate) | 2 years | 18 months |
| Master’s Degree (taught postgraduate) | 2 years | 18 months |
| PhD or other Doctoral Qualification | 3 years | 3 years |
2026/2027 UK Graduate Visa Update for Indian Students: The UK Government has confirmed that the Graduate Route duration will be reduced from 2 years to 18 months for bachelor’s and master’s graduates who apply on or after 1 January 2027. Indian students who complete their degree and apply for the UK PSW visa on or before 31 December 2026 will receive the full 2-year Graduate Route visa. PhD graduates retain the 3-year route regardless of when they apply.
UK student visa extension India – after the Graduate Route: After the Graduate Route visa expires, Indian students who want to remain and work in the UK permanently can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa, requiring an employer sponsor and meeting salary thresholds. The UK Graduate Visa fee is £880 with an annual healthcare surcharge.
UK Student Visa Dependent Rules for Indian Students
The UK student visa dependent rules – covering the UK student visa spouse India question and bringing children – were significantly tightened from January 2024. Indian students need to understand these rules carefully before deciding on their study destination.
- Who can bring dependants to the UK on a student visa: Only PhD students and students on government-sponsored research scholarships on full-time postgraduate research programmes (lasting 9 months or more) are permitted to bring a spouse/partner or children under the current rules. The dependant must make a separate UK student visa dependent application.
- Indian students on taught Master’s degrees: Cannot bring dependants (spouse or children) to the UK under the post-2024 rules. This applies to MBA, MSc, MA, MPhil by coursework, and all other taught postgraduate programmes.
- Indian undergraduate students: Cannot bring dependants on a UK student visa under any circumstances.
- UK student visa spouse India – fee: Each dependant pays a separate application fee of £524 plus the Immigration Health Surcharge for the duration of their permitted stay in the UK.
- Children born in the UK: If you have a child while studying in the UK, you must apply for a dependant visa for the child if you wish to travel in and out of the UK with them.
Top 10 UK Universities for Indian Students – QS Rankings 2026
India sends students to UK universities across all rankings and disciplines. These are the top-ranked UK universities for international students applying for a UK student route visa:
| University | QS World Ranking | Location | Popular Courses for Indians |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imperial College London | #2 | London | Engineering, AI, Data Science, Medicine |
| University of Oxford | #3 | Oxford | Law, Economics, PPE, Research programmes |
| University of Cambridge | #5 | Cambridge | Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine |
| University College London (UCL) | #9 | London | Computer Science, Architecture, Law, Pharmacy |
| University of Edinburgh | #27 | Edinburgh, Scotland | Business, Medicine, Computer Science, Engineering |
| University of Manchester | #34 | Manchester | Business Analytics, Engineering, Life Sciences |
| King’s College London | #40 | London | Medicine, Dentistry, Law, Psychiatry |
| London School of Economics (LSE) | #50 | London | Finance, Economics, Management, Political Science |
| University of Bristol | #54 | Bristol | Aerospace Engineering, Law, Economics |
| University of Warwick | #69 | Coventry | Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics |
UK Student Visa New Rules 2026 – Key Updates for Indian Students
The UK student visa latest rules and new rules for Indian students in 2026 include several important changes Indian applicants must know before applying for a UK study visa:
eVisa Mandatory from 2025
All UK international student visa applicants and current UK residents now access their immigration status through a digital eVisa linked to a UKVI account. Physical BRP cards are no longer issued for student visas. All Indian students must create a UKVI account to receive and share their UK student route visa status.
UK Student Visa Fee Increase – April 2025
The UK student visa application fee increased from £490 to £524 on 9 April 2025. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) remains at £776 per year. Indian students must budget for the updated UK student visa fees India when planning their application.
Graduate Route Reduction – January 2027
The UK PSW visa for Indian students completing bachelor’s and master’s degrees will reduce from 2 years to 18 months for applicants who apply on or after 1 January 2027. PhD graduates continue to receive 3 years. This is one of the most significant UK student visa latest updates India for 2026 – 2027.
Dependant Visa Restrictions (Since January 2024)
Under the UK student visa new rules India, only PhD and research-funded students can bring dependants. Taught master’s and undergraduate students cannot bring spouse or children. This UK student visa dependent India rule change has significantly affected Indian student planning for family accompaniment.
Updated Maintenance Funds (November 2025)
The UK student visa funds requirement for Indian students was updated in November 2025. The new UK student visa maintenance requirement is £1,529 per month (London) and £1,171 per month (outside London) – a significant increase from previous figures. Indian students must recalculate their required UK student visa bank balance for India under these updated figures.
How GloboPrime India Supports UK Student Visa Document Preparation
GloboPrime India, headquartered in Chennai, is one of India’s most trusted document attestation and apostille services companies, supporting Indian students applying for UK study visas from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and all Indian states. While the UK student visa application itself must be submitted directly on gov.uk, GloboPrime India ensures every supporting document for your UK student visa is correctly attested, apostilled, and translated before you apply.
- MEA Apostille (Ministry of External Affairs): Mandatory first step for Indian academic and personal documents submitted to UK universities and UKVI. We manage the complete MEA Apostille process from New Delhi for students across all Indian states.
- HRD Attestation for UK Student Visa: State-level HRD attestation required before MEA Apostille for degree and academic certificates. We handle HRD attestation across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and all other states.
- Degree Certificate Attestation: Complete HRD plus MEA Apostille chain for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degree certificates required for UK university admission, UK student visa applications, and UK ENIC recognition.
- Certified Translation Services from India: UKVI-accepted certified English translations of academic transcripts, mark sheets, birth certificates, and other documents issued in regional Indian languages. Required when submitting Indian documents to UK universities or professional bodies.
- UK ENIC Statement of Comparability: Formerly UK NARIC, the UK ENIC Statement of Comparability compares your Indian degree against UK qualification levels. Required by many UK employers and for certain post-study work visa applications.
- Experience Certificate Attestation: For Indian students applying to postgraduate programmes that require proof of prior professional experience, we handle full attestation of Indian employment and experience certificates.
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from India: Some UK universities and post-study work employers require an Indian PCC. GloboPrime assists Indian students with obtaining and attesting the Indian Police Clearance Certificate for UK use.
- Free pickup and delivery in Chennai: We collect your original documents from your address in Chennai, process all attestations across multiple authorities, and return the complete attested document set to you. No visits to government offices required.
GloboPrime India serves students across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and all Indian states. Contact us today to get your UK student visa documents attested and ready. Call +91 44 4203 3480 or WhatsApp +91 91766 96833.
GloboPrime India Office – UK Student Visa Document Services Chennai
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Company Name | GloboPrime Attestation Services Pvt Ltd |
| India Office Address | Office -A #10, 1st Street, Sripuram Colony, St. Thomas Mount, Chennai – 600016, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Phone (Chennai) | +91 44 4203 3480 |
| +91 91766 96833 | |
| sales@attestationmea.com | |
| Operating Hours | Monday to Saturday: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM |
| Free Pickup and Delivery | Available within Chennai. Courier coordination available across all Indian states for UK student visa document attestation. |
Frequently Asked Questions – UK Student Visa for Indian Students
How much does a UK student visa cost from India in 2026?
The UK student visa application fee in 2026 is £524 (approximately INR 63,500), updated from £490 on 9 April 2025. The UK student visa total cost for Indian students also includes the Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year of your course (approx. INR 94,000/year), TB test (approx. INR 2,500), and IELTS or PTE test (approx. INR 17,000 to INR 24,000). For a 1-year Master’s course, the total UK study visa cost for Indians before tuition and living costs is approximately INR 1.85 lakh in fees alone.
How much bank balance is required for UK student visa from India?
The UK student visa bank balance India requirement for 2026 is: London students must show £13,761 (approx. INR 16.7 lakh) in maintenance funds plus first-year unpaid tuition. Outside London students must show £10,539 (approx. INR 12.8 lakh) plus first-year unpaid tuition. These funds must be held for a minimum of 28 consecutive days before your UK student visa application date. The 28-day holding period must end no more than one month before you apply.
What documents are required for a UK student visa from India?
The key documents required for UK student visa India are: valid Indian passport, CAS number from your UK university, proof of maintenance funds (bank statements held for 28 days), English language test certificate (IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL), TB test certificate from a UKVI-approved clinic in India, academic transcripts and degree certificates, and parental consent if aged 16 or 17. Indian students are on the low-risk list and typically do not upload all documents during the online application, but must hold all documents ready.
How long does UK student visa processing take from India?
The standard UK student visa processing time India is 3 weeks (15 working days) from your VFS Global biometric appointment. The UK student visa priority service India takes 5 working days at an additional cost of £500. The UK student visa super priority (fast track) India gives a decision the next working day at an extra £1,000. Apply at least 6 to 8 weeks before your intended travel date to allow for any unexpected delays.
How to get a CAS for UK student visa from India?
To get a CAS for UK student visa from India: (1) Apply to a UKVI-licensed UK university and receive an unconditional offer. (2) Accept the offer and fulfil all pre-CAS conditions your university specifies (such as submitting your transcripts, English language results, and paying any deposit). (3) The university assigns your CAS number through the UKVI Sponsor Management System and sends it to you. The CAS is valid for 6 months and costs £25. You cannot apply for your UK student visa without this CAS number.
Can Indian students work on a UK student visa?
Yes. Indian students on a UK student visa studying at degree level can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time during official university holidays. Students on below-degree courses can work up to 10 hours per week during term. Self-employment is not permitted. Exceeding your weekly work limit is a serious visa compliance breach and can result in curtailment of your UK student visa.
Can I apply for a UK student visa without IELTS from India?
It may be possible to get a UK student visa without IELTS if your previous qualification was delivered and assessed entirely in English. Many UK universities accept CBSE or ICSE Class 12 English scores or an undergraduate degree taught in English as proof of English proficiency, potentially allowing you to apply for a UK study visa without a separate language test. However, this is at each university’s discretion. Check directly with your specific UK university before assuming an IELTS exemption applies.
Can I bring my spouse to the UK on a student visa from India?
Under the UK student visa spouse India rules effective from January 2024, only PhD students and government-sponsored research students on postgraduate research programmes lasting 9 months or more can bring a spouse or partner to the UK. Indian students on taught Master’s programmes and undergraduate programmes cannot bring a spouse as a dependant on their UK student visa.
How long can I stay in the UK after completing my degree?
The UK post study work visa for Indian students – the Graduate Route – currently allows bachelor’s and master’s graduates to stay for 2 years without a job offer (if they apply by 31 December 2026) or 18 months (if applying from 1 January 2027). PhD graduates receive 3 years regardless of application date. After the Graduate Route, Indian students can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa if they have a qualifying job offer.
For any queries or to avail Attestation or Apostille Services in Chennai, please reach out to us: Email: info@globoprime.com Phone: +91 9962650280
