Step-by-step process toward your dreams

Going abroad to study is a dream for most Pakistani students. Among many countries, the UK is the most demanding for study and many other purposes. If you are one who is seeking a UK study visa from Pakistan, then you are on the right blog.

Getting a UK study visa from Pakistan seems daunting, and many aspirants need proper guidance. They usually ignore UK study visa requirements, eligibility criteria, and financial considerations.

This guide breaks down every aspect, with a step-by-step pathway on how to apply for a UK study visa from Pakistan. Not only this, but you can also get proper assistance from Times Consultants to apply for a UK study visa and be well-prepared to make your dream a reality.

UK Study Visa Types

As an international student, you can apply for several types of UK study visas, each catering to different lengths and types of courses.

Student Visa: For full-time courses, typically longer than six months.

Short Term Study Visa UK: Ideal for shorter courses like language programs, lasting up to six months.

Child Student visa: For students aged 4-17 to study at an approved independent school.

Tier 4 (General) Student Visa: The most common type of visa for international students over 16 to study a course longer than six months.

Dependent UK student visa: For the spouse or children of a primary applicant with a Master's degree application.

Graduate visa route: A post-study work visa for students with a valid student visa to stay in the UK for up to two years.

UK Ancestry visa: A visa that allows you to study in the UK, work, and bring family members.

UK Study Visa Requirements from Pakistan

Before applying, you need to know the UK study visa requirements from Pakistan. Fulfilling this requirement is the halfway assurance of your successful visa application, which added:

• An acceptance letter from a recognized UK institution.
• Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS, is required.
• Financial Proof showing you can cover tuition fees and living expenses.
• Academic reference.
• Valid passport Copy.

UK Study Visa Requirements After 12th

Students who have just completed their 12th grade and are willing to study in the UK from Pakistan have to meet specific visa requirements depending on their educational background and the type of course they wish to pursue.

• Students must be at least 16 years old.
• They should have completed 12th grade from a recognized institution.
• An offer from a licensed UK educational institution is necessary.

Required Documents:

• Academic Transcripts from 10th and 12th grades.
• Proof of English Language Proficiency.
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
• Proof of Funds: Evidence showing sufficient funds to cover tuition fees.
• Tuberculosis Test Results.

UK Study Visa for Matric Students:

This is for students who have completed their matriculation (10th grade) and wish to pursue further studies in the UK. There is a similarity between grade 12th and matric, but here are all the nitty-gritty requirements to avoid hassle or inconvenience.

Child Student Visa:

This visa is available for students aged 4 to 17 and for matric students. Applicants must have an offer from a licensed student sponsor and parental consent if they are under 18.

• Similar documentation as above, but focused on secondary education options like O-levels or equivalent courses.
• Proof of funds must also be provided to show financial capability for supporting education and living costs in the UK.

UK Study Visa Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a UK study visa from Pakistan, you should meet the following eligibility criteria: Age: Minimum age of 16 for a standard student visa. CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies): Issued by your chosen institution in the UK. Maintenance Funds: Bank statements or sponsorship showing sufficient funds for living expenses. English language courses at level B2 or higher on the CEFR13. Course Level:

• Below degree level (RQF Level 3, 4, or 5)
• Degree level or above (RQF Level 6, 7, or 8)

Financial Aspects of a UK Study Visa

Understanding the financial aspects of a UK study Visa application is a bit tricky. You have to know all about the costs associated with the visa application, including the tuition fees and living expenses that students must budget for during their studies. The application fee for obtaining a study visa for the UK from Pakistan is the price associated with obtaining one. As of now, the cost is £490 (approximately 80,882 PKR) when applying from outside the UK. The UK study visa fee from Pakistan applies to both new applications and those switching from another visa type to a student visa.

Additional Costs

In addition to the visa application fee, students pay an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This surcharge provides access to the National Health Service (NHS) and is for the period of their stay in the UK. It costs approximately £776 per year (around 130,000 PKR). The total amount will depend on the length of the course14.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees depend on the course and institution. Generally, international students can expect to pay between £10,000 and £38,000 per year for tuition. However, it is essential to check with specific universities for exact figures related to chosen programs or contact the Times consultants about the fees and costs required for your visa process or stay in the UK.

Living Expenses

It is mandatory to show sufficient funds to cover living expenses while studying in the UK. The required amount is based on the location and accommodation you choose.

• For students studying in London: £1,334 per month (approximately 220,000 PKR).
• For students studying outside London: £1,023 per month (around 170,000 PKR).

These amounts need to be shown for up to nine months, totaling approximately £12,006 for London and £9,207 for other regions. (It is just a tentative idea for the cost).

Total Estimated Costs

When calculating the total financial requirement for a UK study visa from Pakistan, consider the following:

• Visa Application Fee: £490 (~80,882 PKR)
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £776 per year (~130,000 PKR)
• Tuition Fees: Average of £10,000 - £38,000 per year
• Living Expenses: Approximately £12,006 (London) or £9,207 (outside London) For example, if a student plans to study in London for one year with tuition fees of £15,000:
• Total Costs = Visa Fee + IHS + Tuition + Living Expenses
• Total Costs = £490 + £776 + £15,000 + £12,006 = £28,272 (~4.7 million PKR).

Bank Statement for UK Study Visa

Duration of Funds

• Applicants must provide a bank statement showing the required funds for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting the visa application.

Minimum Required Amounts

• For students studying in London, the bank statement needs to show a minimum of £1,334 per month for living expenses, totaling £12,006 for nine months.
• For students studying outside of London, it requires £1,023 per month, totaling £9,207 for nine months. (It may vary up to the university and course you are applying for).

Types of Acceptable Accounts

• The bank statement can be from the following types:
• The student’s personal bank account.
• A parent’s or guardian’s bank account. (Additional documentation is needed for relationship confirmation).
• A joint account.

Document Specifications

The bank statement must be printed directly from the bank with:

• The account holder's name (student or parent/guardian).
• The account number.
• The date issued (must be no older than 31 days at the time of application).
• A record of transactions.

Currency Conversion

Along with all the required amounts, the foremost thing is to convert the amount into pounds sterling using an approved conversion method (such as OANDA) and confirm that the converted amount meets UKVI requirements.

Additional Documentation

If using a parent’s or guardian's funds, applicants must submit:

• A letter of consent from the parent or guardian.
• Legal documents proving the relationship.

Types of Statements Accepted

Both electronic statements and traditional paper statements are acceptable. However, electronic statements should be printed on official bank letterhead or stamped by the bank for authenticity.

UK Study Visa Processing Time

General Processing Time

The standard processing time for a UK study visa is approximately 3 weeks (15 working days) from the date of application submission.

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

• Incomplete Application: Incomplete application, documents or incorrect information can lead to delays. Make sure the provided information and attached documents are complete.
• Security Checks: Background checks and security inspections can add time to the processing period, especially if there are any concerns.
• Health Examination: If health examinations are required or if there are health concerns, this can affect how quickly the application is processed.

Checklist for UK Study Visa

Essential Documents

• Valid Passport
• Visa Application Form
• Visa Application Fee
• Passport-Size Photographs
• National Identity Card (CNIC)
• Academic Documents
• English proficiency certificate
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
• Financial Proof
• Statement of Purpose
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Family Registration Certificate (FRC)
• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate
• Proof of Accommodation
• Vaccination Certificates

Additional Considerations

• Biometric Information
• Parental Consent

Conclusion

Securing a UK study visa from Pakistan could be an exciting first step toward achieving your educational aspirations if you fulfill all requirements and submit a proper application with all required documents, as mentioned above. With careful planning and a clear understanding of the visa process, you can join the thousands of Pakistani students who’ve made their mark in the UK. To avoid delay or cancellation, all you need is proper guidance, which will lead you through a smooth process without tapping your back. Don't worry! At Times Consultants, we're always ready to help students start their journey toward their dreams. Contact us today for expert guidance on studying in the UK , free from any hassle.