Exploring the UK Student Visa Requirements Post-Brexit

Since historical times, the UK has been a favorite destination for international students looking for quality education. By all standards, the country has remained appealing despite the tremendous political change caused by Brexit. Navigating the UK student visa post-Brexit has become challenging for EU and non-EU students. 

However, the need for student visas also changed due to the UK's official exit from the EU, making it essential to know the changes if one intends to study in the UK.

The UK Study Visa following Brexit, incorporating several changes in the requirements for a student visa, will be discussed here. New rules for both EU and non-EU students, eligibility criteria, and pertinent factors to be considered before applying for a Student Visa in the UK will be discussed. 

What is a UK Student Visa? 

One of the visa routes for international students to study in the UK is the UK Study Visa. This visa program is often renowned for replacing the Tier 4 (General) student visa after Brexit. 

Any interested individual can apply if he wants to pursue a full-time course in a UK higher education institution. 

Of course, it now has a new name and conditions, but the general concept remains the same as its predecessor, the pre-Brexit version with the Tier 4 visa.

What has changed after Brexit?

Before Brexit, EU nationals were eligible to enjoy free movement across European Borders, including the ability to live and study in the UK without requiring a Study Visa. 

It has seen EU students find it relatively easier to apply to universities in the UK. However, the free movement meant to be provided by this is now over following Britain's exit from the European Union. 

Since January 1, 2021, such students are subject to visa and immigration requirements like any other non-EU student. It means that although one may come from France, Germany, India, or even the United States, applying for a student visa is relatively similar.

UK Student Visa Requirements for Indians 

The UK Student Visa Requirements for Indians post-Brexit largely depend upon the following factors: 

1.  Acceptance Letter from a Recognised University 

One of the first requirements is that the candidate must get an acceptance letter from a recognised university before applying for a Study Visa UK. Additionally, the university should be on the list of approved education providers and recognised by the government of the United Kingdom. 

2. English Language Proficiency 

This requirement requires you to show that you can read, write, speak, and comprehend standard English. Most students will be required to take a secure English language test, such as the IELTS, or provide evidence of other qualifications undertaken in the English language.

3. Financial Sufficiency 

As part of the student visa application, you must show that you have sufficient funds to cover the tuition fees plus any living costs while studying in the UK. The amount is based on where you will be learning and your circumstances. 

Typically, you would have to prove you can, at the least, afford £1,334 per month to cover living expenses should you study in London and £1,023 if you are studying outside of London. 

4. Criminal Records and Health Requirements 

If you have lived in certain countries for over 12 months in the last 10 years, you will probably need to produce a police certificate. You must also meet the UK's health requirements, which include paying a health surcharge for immigration; this will cover your medical costs while you stay in the UK.

Process of Applying for a UK Student Visa for Indian Students 

Applying for a UK Study Visa has remained straightforward even after Brexit. Here is the step-by-step process. 

1. Acceptance Letter 

Before applying for a student visa, you should gain a confirmed place in a UK institution with a licensed sponsor under the Student Visa route. Having provided you with the offer, the university will send a CAS letter, which you can use while applying for a visa.

2. Complete Online Application 

The application for a UK Study Visa is submitted through an online portal on the UK Visa website. You must submit the application forms, pay the visa fee, and attach supporting documents such as your passport, CAS, proof of financial support, and results from an English language proficiency test.

3. Attend Visa Appointment 

After filling out the online application, you should book an appointment at a visa application center and have your biometric details taken. Depending on your country of origin, this may be possible only at a local UK visa center in some cases.

4. Await a Response

After submitting the application and biometric details, you may receive a response regarding your UK student visa in 3 weeks. However, it may take much longer in some instances. Applicants need to apply as early as possible to avoid delay.

Post-Brexit Changes for EU Students 

Although the process now is identical for EU applicants, there are a few additional changes to take note of:

1. Visa Requirements for EU Students: 

It has already been observed that post-Brexit, all EU students must apply for a student visa, similar to non-EU students. This applies to students who desire to pursue any full-time course in the UK. So, from now onwards, EU students will be unable to access the UK's higher education system with an automatic visa.

2. Fee differences between EU students: 

After Brexit, EU students began receiving fees comparable to those of international students, although they had previously received the exact costs as UK students. 

These charges are higher than those levied on UK students and vary between institutions of higher learning and their courses. 

They would also differ from others in not getting student loans and grants, which students under EU provisions used to get.

3. What to do after graduation: 

Move to the UK. Apply to live in the UK. After graduation, EU students in the UK before December 31, 2020, may be entitled to stay in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme. After January 1, 2021, students admitted to the UK will be treated precisely like non-EU students. Thus, they will not be allowed to settle unless they qualify under the new immigration regime.

Conclusion

The United Kingdom remains a desirable destination for international students seeking quality education, cultural experiences, and career growth post-Brexit. However, proper preparation is crucial for successful UK Student Visa application processes. Understanding eligibility criteria, financial requirements, and immigration system changes is essential. 

You should apply for a UK Study Visa in advance to avoid issues and ensure a smooth journey. Proper visa preparation and knowledge are crucial for academic success and professional development in the UK, regardless of EU or non-EU status.

For more detailed information about UK Immigration, Contact Province Immigration via +91 98961 96762 or [email protected]