International students including Nigerian students hoping to begin their studies in the United Kingdom have been urged to get their visa applications right before submitting them.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has outlined the process, warning applicants to pay close attention to their documents and personal information.
The guidance covers the journey from obtaining admission to completing biometric checks and receiving a visa decision.
1. Your admission must be confirmed
A Student visa application cannot begin without an unconditional offer from a licensed UK education provider.
Once the offer is accepted, the institution provides a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is needed for the visa application.
Depending on the programme and applicant, additional requirements may include an ATAS certificate, tuberculosis test certificate and proof of English-language ability.
2. Choose the right time to apply
The timing of an application depends on whether the student is applying from inside or outside Britain.
Applicants overseas can apply as early as six months before their course starts.
Those already in the UK can apply up to three months before the course begins. Anyone extending or switching their visa must apply before their existing visa expires.
UKVI said, “Apply as early as possible.”
There is also no requirement to purchase a flight ticket before receiving a decision.
3. Get your paperwork ready
Students should gather their supporting documents before opening the online application.
Financial evidence may be required to show that the applicant can pay for the course and support themselves during their stay.
Where an account contains significant or unusual deposits, applicants may need to provide further information about the source of the money.
Applicants under 18 must also obtain written permission from their parents or legal guardians.
4. Complete the application online
The Student visa application is completed online through the UK government’s official visa service.
Students will be asked for information about themselves, including their passport details, family background and travel arrangements.
Applicants can create a password and use their email address to return to an unfinished application.
5. Make sure your personal details match your passport
One of the most important checks should happen before the application is submitted.
Names and other personal information must be entered correctly and should correspond with the applicant’s official documents.
UKVI said, “The most common error is entering a name or other personal details incorrectly.”
A mistake discovered after submission may mean cancelling the application, requesting a refund and starting again.
6. Submit the required documents
Applicants will be told which supporting documents they need to provide during the application process.
Documents should be uploaded correctly and contain accurate information.
Missing paperwork or incorrect information can result in delays, making it important for students to review their documents before submission.
7. Pay the required charges
Completing the form is followed by payment of the Student visa application fee.
Applicants are directed to Worldpay to make the payment.
Students planning to remain in the UK for more than six months will generally also have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
8. Complete your identity checks
The application process does not end with payment.
Applicants must complete their biometric requirements, which include providing fingerprints and a photograph.
Depending on their circumstances, students may be instructed to attend an appointment through VFS or complete identity checks using the ID Check app.
9. Keep your confirmation details
After the application has been completed, applicants receive an email confirming that the process has been submitted.
The message also contains a reference number.
Students should retain the email because it provides an important record of their application.
10. Allow UKVI to process the application
Once the application is submitted, applicants should wait for UKVI to make its decision.
The agency said applicants do not need to contact it unless further information is requested.
“You do not need to contact us once your application is submitted,” UKVI said.
Applicants will be notified by email when a decision is reached. They should also check their spam and junk folders.
11. Do not rush to the UK
Even after obtaining a visa, students travelling from outside Britain must wait until the authorised start date.
UKVI stated, “If you are outside the UK, you must not travel to the UK before the start date given on your visa.”
Students have therefore been advised to check the latest Student visa requirements on GOV.UK before submitting their applications.
