# Study in the United Kingdom from India

Country guide · For students from India. Checked 16 October 2026; next check January 2027. Researched by the UNIFER research team. Reviewed by Devjot Singh, founder, UNIFER. Rules change: always confirm with the official body before applying.

Page: https://uniferedu.com/study-in/uk

## In short

- **£13,761** to show for living costs in London (£10,539 elsewhere), plus unpaid first-year fees
- **18 months** on the Graduate visa if you apply from 1 Jan 2027 (2 years if by 31 Dec 2026)
- **20 hours** a week of work in term time, full-time in vacations
- **No** dependants on a taught master’s; only PhD/research degrees or government-sponsored students

## What changed recently

- Since 1 May 2026 (England): at most one month’s rent in advance, and a deposit of at most 5 weeks’ rent.
- 1 Jan 2027: the Graduate visa drops from 2 years to 18 months for applications from this date.
- From Aug 2028: England adds a £925 per student provider levy, paid by universities.

## Studying in the UK from India: 9 things to know

A UK master’s usually takes one year, and graduates get a Graduate visa of 2 years if they apply by 31 Dec 2026, or 18 months if they apply from 1 Jan 2027. Taught master’s students cannot bring dependants.

1. **Graduate route: 2 years if applied by 31 Dec 2026, 18 months if applied from 1 Jan 2027** (bachelor's and master's); PhD 3 years. Not extendable. A September-2026 one-year master's applies in 2027 → 18 months.
2. **No dependants on a taught master's** (since Jan 2024). Only PhD/research degrees, or government-sponsored students.
3. **Proof of funds:** £1,529/month (London) or £1,171/month (elsewhere) for up to 9 months = **£13,761 / £10,539**, plus unpaid first-year fees (fees already paid are deducted). Held **28 days**, ending within **31 days** of applying. India must submit the evidence.
4. **Education loans count** (letter under 6 months old, educational loan scheme, unconditional, money available before travel). Parent's account counts with a consent letter.
5. **English:** visa needs B2, but at degree level **the university can assess it** — several accept Class XII English. UKVI may still interview and refuse if English falls short.
6. **Visa costs:** fee £558 + health surcharge £776/year (≈ £1,164 for a 12-month master's) + TB test. Priority £500 (5 working days) where offered.
7. **ATAS:** Indian nationals are not exempt; many science/engineering master's and PhDs need it (free, 30+ working days, slower Apr–Sep).
8. **Work: 20 hours/week in term time**, full-time in vacations; minimum wage £12.71 (21+). Part-time students cannot work.
9. **After graduating:** Skilled Worker £41,700, or **£33,400 (70% of going rate) as a new entrant** for up to 4 years incl. Graduate time; English B2 (a UK degree proves it).

## How do UK universities and master’s degrees work?

A UK master’s is 180 credits and usually takes one year, and each university selects its own students. Your CAS must come from a university on the Register of licensed student sponsors.

- **Four nations:** England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland. Visas and work rules are UK-wide; housing law and council tax differ by nation.
- **Recognition:** only recognised bodies award degrees, and the awarding body can differ from the college that teaches. A CAS needs a university on the **Register of licensed student sponsors**. England's national teaching rating is the **TEF** (Gold/Silver/Bronze).
- **Degrees:** bachelor's honours = 360 credits (Scotland designed as 4 years), master's = 180 credits (90 ECTS), usually **one year**. PhD entry from India often needs a master's.
- **Admission:** each university selects; many master's are rolling (Manchester), some run fixed rounds (Imperial). Entry is a UK class (2:1 / 2:2) converted by **tier of Indian institution**.
- **Intakes:** main start September/October; a few courses start January–July.
- **Visa-eligible courses:** full-time at degree level or above; part-time only at master's level and above (no work). Degree-level study capped at 5 years from age 18.

Official sources:

- [GOV.UK, Check a university is officially recognised](https://www.gov.uk/check-a-university-is-officially-recognised) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Register of licensed sponsors: students (15 Oct 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/register-of-licensed-sponsors-students) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: eligibility](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/eligibility) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student route caseworker guidance (updated 3 Aug 2026; genuine student rule, interviews, partially paid fees, differential evidence)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-route-caseworker-guidance/student-and-child-student-accessible) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Bristol, India](https://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/countries/india.html) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of York, India](https://www.york.ac.uk/study/international/your-country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [QAA, Qualifications frameworks](https://www.qaa.ac.uk/the-quality-code/qualifications-frameworks) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Chevening, Eligibility](https://www.chevening.org/resource-hub/guidance/eligibility/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [British Council Study UK, GREAT Scholarships and India page (via r.jina.ai) ;](https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships/india) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Degree structures](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/undergraduate/student-life/academic/degree-structure/degree-structure) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [King's College London, International entry requirements (PG)](https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study-legacy/postgraduate/apply/entry-requirements/international.aspx) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial College London, PGT accepted qualifications (India)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/application-process/entry-requirements/accepted-qualifications/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: your course](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/course) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Student (ST 5, 8.4, 12, 14, 17, 19, 22, 25.3, 26, 31, 33, 39)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-student) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Graduate visa: eligibility](https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa/eligibility) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Graduate (updated 3 Aug 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-graduate) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Standard Visitor](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: switch](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/switch-to-this-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UCAS, Dates and deadlines (2027 entry)](https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/ucas-undergraduate-when-apply) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Manchester, Master's how to apply](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/masters/admissions/how-to-apply/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, PGT application process pages (deadlines, personal statement, reference, interviews, offer conditions, deferral) and …/offer-holders/next-steps/](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/application-process/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Manchester, India](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/country-specific-information/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Glasgow, India](https://www.gla.ac.uk/international/country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Edinburgh, India (UG)](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/international/country/asia/south-asia/india) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Office for Students, The TEF – a guide for students](https://www.officeforstudents.org.uk/for-students/teaching-excellence-framework/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Living costs (2026)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/living-costs/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Living costs (2026-27)](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/undergraduate/fees-finance/living-costs) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Manchester, Cost of living](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/fees-and-funding/cost-of-living/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: money](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/money) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Right to rent](https://www.gov.uk/check-tenant-right-to-rent-documents) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Guide to the Renters' Rights Act](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Tenant Fees Act 2019: guidance for tenants (updated 7 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tenant-fees-act-2019-guidance-for-tenants) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Fees you can charge as part of a tenancy (updated 7 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/fees-you-can-charge-as-part-of-a-tenancy) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Tenancy deposit protection](https://www.gov.uk/tenancy-deposit-protection) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Council tax: students (England)](https://www.gov.uk/council-tax/discounts-for-full-time-students) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [mygov.scot, Council Tax discounts, exemptions and reductions](https://www.mygov.scot/council-tax/discounts-exemptions-and-reductions) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [nidirect, Rates on rental properties](https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/rates-rental-properties) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [NHS, Register with a GP](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-to-register-with-a-gp-surgery/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, International student levy (updated 13 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/introducing-an-international-student-levy-on-higher-education-providers) (checked 2026-10-15)

## Can I apply with an Indian degree, and is a 3-year bachelor’s accepted?

Yes: a 3-year bachelor’s is accepted for taught master’s (Manchester, KCL, Imperial), but not research degrees. Typical 2:1 cut-offs run from 55% to 70%, depending on the tier of your Indian institution.

- **No national credential check** (no APS-type step). Universities verify documents after the offer.
- **Master's with a 3-year bachelor's:** accepted for taught master's (Manchester, KCL, Imperial: "Masters but not research").
- **Typical 2:1 cut-offs:** **KCL 60% / 7.5** (highly prestigious), **63%** (prestigious), **65% / 8.0** (other recognised); **Imperial 65%** (Tier 1: institutes of national importance, Delhi, JNU, BHU, BITS, IISc…) or **70%** (Tier 2); **Glasgow 55–63%**; **York 60%** (55% for strict-marking universities such as DU); **Bristol 60% / 6.0**.
- **Bachelor's from Class XII:** direct entry around 75–95% (Edinburgh 80%, Glasgow 75–85%, Bristol 80–90%, York 75–85%, Manchester 80–95%). Manchester takes state boards for direct entry only from Maharashtra, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Gujarat; others via foundation year.
- **English waivers (university's choice):** Bristol CBSE/CISCE English 70–80%+; York 75%+ (**MOI letters not accepted**). SELTs: IELTS for UKVI, PTE, LanguageCert, PSI (valid 2 years).
- **MBA:** e.g. Imperial — 3+ years' work experience, GMAT 555+ or GRE 156V/158Q.

Official sources:

- [University of Manchester, India](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/country-specific-information/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Glasgow, India](https://www.gla.ac.uk/international/country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Edinburgh, India (UG)](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/international/country/asia/south-asia/india) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Bristol, India](https://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/countries/india.html) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of York, India](https://www.york.ac.uk/study/international/your-country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UCAS, Dates and deadlines (2027 entry)](https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/ucas-undergraduate-when-apply) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UCAS, Filling in your application (fee £34.50, five choices)](https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/filling-your-ucas-undergraduate-application) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [King's College London, International entry requirements (PG)](https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study-legacy/postgraduate/apply/entry-requirements/international.aspx) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial College London, PGT accepted qualifications (India)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/application-process/entry-requirements/accepted-qualifications/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student route caseworker guidance (updated 3 Aug 2026; genuine student rule, interviews, partially paid fees, differential evidence)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-route-caseworker-guidance/student-and-child-student-accessible) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UGC Equivalence Portal FAQs](https://equivalence.ugc.ac.in/Home/faq) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UK ENIC](https://www.enic.org.uk/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, PGT application process pages (deadlines, personal statement, reference, interviews, offer conditions, deferral) and …/offer-holders/next-steps/](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/application-process/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: knowledge of English](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/knowledge-of-english) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student sponsor guidance Document 2: Sponsorship duties (collection updated 9 Oct 2026; paras 5.14, 5.107, 5.116–5.117, 5.135, 7.x reporting table)](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6ac8b9a9ab368efeb4c9342e/Student_Sponsor_Guidance_Doc_2_Final.pdf) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, SELT guidance (updated 12 Oct 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prove-your-english-language-abilities-with-a-secure-english-language-test-selt) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial Business School, Full-Time MBA admissions](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/business-school/programmes/full-time-mba/admissions/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: eligibility](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/eligibility) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: documents](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/documents-you-must-provide) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Skilled Worker: paid less](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/when-you-can-be-paid-less) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Chevening, Eligibility](https://www.chevening.org/resource-hub/guidance/eligibility/) (checked 2026-10-15)

## How do I apply to a UK university?

For a master’s you apply directly to each university; for a bachelor’s you apply through UCAS (up to 5 choices, £34.50; most courses by 13 Jan 2027). After the deposit and an unconditional offer, you get your CAS.

- **Postgraduate: directly to each university.** Undergraduate: **UCAS**, up to 5 choices, £34.50; 2027 entry: 15 Oct 2026 (Oxbridge/medicine), 13 Jan 2027 (most courses), 30 Jun 2027 before Clearing.
- Typical file: transcripts, personal statement, two references (Imperial: one academic, professional emails only), English evidence; some programmes interview.
- **Application fees** vary (Imperial £90 master's, £150 MBA; many charge none).
- Offer → meet conditions → **deposit** (Edinburgh £1,500; Imperial 10% of fee, due 30 days after invoice) → **unconditional offer** → **CAS** → visa within 6 months of the CAS.

Official sources:

- [UCAS, International students](https://www.ucas.com/international/international-students) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Manchester, Master's how to apply](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/masters/admissions/how-to-apply/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UCAS, Filling in your application (fee £34.50, five choices)](https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/filling-your-ucas-undergraduate-application) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Application fee (2027-28)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/application-process/application-fee/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UCAS, Dates and deadlines (2027 entry)](https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/ucas-undergraduate-when-apply) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, PGT application process pages (deadlines, personal statement, reference, interviews, offer conditions, deferral) and …/offer-holders/next-steps/](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/application-process/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of York, India](https://www.york.ac.uk/study/international/your-country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: documents](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/documents-you-must-provide) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UK ENIC](https://www.enic.org.uk/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Manchester, India](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/country-specific-information/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Glasgow, India](https://www.gla.ac.uk/international/country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Edinburgh, India (UG)](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/international/country/asia/south-asia/india) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Bristol, India](https://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/countries/india.html) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student route caseworker guidance (updated 3 Aug 2026; genuine student rule, interviews, partially paid fees, differential evidence)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-route-caseworker-guidance/student-and-child-student-accessible) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: your course](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/course) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: extend](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/extend-your-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Tuition fee deposits (PG)](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/postgraduate/fees-finance/tuition/tuition-fee-deposits) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Postgraduate application deposits](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/tuition-fees/payment-terms/postgraduate-application-deposits/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Manchester, Acceptance deposits](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/masters/admissions/after-you-apply/acceptance-deposits/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student sponsor guidance Document 2: Sponsorship duties (collection updated 9 Oct 2026; paras 5.14, 5.107, 5.116–5.117, 5.135, 7.x reporting table)](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6ac8b9a9ab368efeb4c9342e/Student_Sponsor_Guidance_Doc_2_Final.pdf) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Register online; Arriving after welcome week; Travel documents ; ;](https://www.ed.ac.uk/new-students/international-students-hub/travel-documents) (checked 2026-10-15)

## How much does it cost, and how much money must I show?

Each university sets its own tuition. For the visa you must show £1,529 a month in London or £1,171 elsewhere for up to 9 months (£13,761 / £10,539), plus unpaid first-year fees, held for 28 days.

- **Tuition** set by each university. England adds a £925/student provider levy from Aug 2028 (paid by universities).
- **Funds for the visa:** maintenance + unpaid first-year fees; university-housing deposit up to £1,529 can be offset. Own, joint, partner's or parent's account; education loan; official sponsor. Bank must be regulated; OANDA rate.
- **Living costs (university estimates):** Imperial London ≈ £1,821–1,893/month; Edinburgh ≈ £1,546/month; Manchester halls £487–1,060/month, house shares £645–710 with bills. UKVI amounts are the floor.
- **Health surcharge** gives NHS care like a resident; prescriptions (England), dental and eye tests are paid.
- **Council tax:** none if everyone at home is a full-time student (England; Scotland incl. halls) — from enrolment, not from the lease start. NI: landlord pays rates in shared houses.
- **Scholarships:** GREAT (£10,000, one-year master's, 13 universities for India in 2026-27); Chevening (fully funded; 2 years' work experience); university awards (e.g. Imperial India Future Leaders £10,000, Glasgow World Changers India).

Official sources:

- [University of Glasgow, PG fees and funding](https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/feesandfunding/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, International student levy (updated 13 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/introducing-an-international-student-levy-on-higher-education-providers) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, IHS: how much](https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/how-much-pay) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: apply](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Student (ST 5, 8.4, 12, 14, 17, 19, 22, 25.3, 26, 31, 33, 39)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-student) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa overview](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Faster decision: applying outside the UK](https://www.gov.uk/faster-decision-visa-settlement/applying-outside-the-uk) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, TB test](https://www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, TB test countries](https://www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa/countries-where-you-need-a-tb-test-to-enter-the-uk) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Council tax: students (England)](https://www.gov.uk/council-tax/discounts-for-full-time-students) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [mygov.scot, Council Tax discounts, exemptions and reductions](https://www.mygov.scot/council-tax/discounts-exemptions-and-reductions) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Manchester, Cost of living](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/fees-and-funding/cost-of-living/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: money](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/money) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student route caseworker guidance (updated 3 Aug 2026; genuine student rule, interviews, partially paid fees, differential evidence)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-route-caseworker-guidance/student-and-child-student-accessible) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Finance](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-finance) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Financial evidence for Student applicants (updated 31 Dec 2025)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/financial-evidence-for-student-and-child-student-route-applicants) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Living costs (2026)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/living-costs/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Living costs (2026-27)](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/undergraduate/fees-finance/living-costs) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Chevening, Eligibility](https://www.chevening.org/resource-hub/guidance/eligibility/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [British Council Study UK, GREAT Scholarships and India page (via r.jina.ai) ;](https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding/great-scholarships/india) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, India Future Leaders Scholarship 2026-27](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/scholarships-search/india-future-leaders-scholarship-20262027.php) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Glasgow, India](https://www.gla.ac.uk/international/country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of York, India](https://www.york.ac.uk/study/international/your-country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Application fee (2027-28)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/apply/postgraduate-taught/application-process/application-fee/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Manchester, Acceptance deposits](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/masters/admissions/after-you-apply/acceptance-deposits/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Scams (international students)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/students/international-students/scams/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Stay safe from scams](https://www.ed.ac.uk/new-students/international-students-hub/stay-safe-from-scams) (checked 2026-10-15)

## How do I get a UK student visa from India?

You apply online on GOV.UK, then give biometrics at a free VFS appointment; the decision usually takes 3 weeks. The visa costs £558 plus the health surcharge of £776 a year.

- **Student visa**, applied online on GOV.UK, then a **free VFS appointment** for biometrics. Centres: Delhi, Gurugram, Chandigarh, Jalandhar, Jaipur, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Mumbai (2), Pune, Goa, Bengaluru, Mysuru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kolkata, plus paid premium centres. Earliest **6 months before** the course; decision **usually 3 weeks**.
- Checklist: passport, **CAS**, funds, **TB certificate** (valid 6 months), **ATAS** if needed, sponsor consent if applicable.
- **Credibility interview** possible (often by phone): course, university, funding, plans, gaps, English. Refusal → administrative review within 28 days (£80) or re-apply.
- Approval gives an **eVisa** (UKVI account, share codes); BRP cards are gone. Travel up to **1 month before** the course, never before the visa start.
- A visitor visa **cannot be switched** to a Student visa. Visa brake (Mar 2026) covers four other nationalities, **not India**.
- **Dependants:** PhD/research only; £845/month (London) or £680 (elsewhere) each.

Official sources:

- [GOV.UK, Student visa overview](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: eligibility](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/eligibility) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: apply](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, eVisa](https://www.gov.uk/evisa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [VFS Global, visa scam tips (11 Jun 2025, via r.jina.ai)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/gbr/news/protect-yourself-from-visa-scams) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, eVisa: travel with your eVisa](https://www.gov.uk/evisa/travel-with-your-evisa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [VFS Global, Attend a centre (via r.jina.ai)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/gbr/attend-centre) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [VFS Global, UK visas in India (home, via r.jina.ai)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/gbr/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Faster decision: applying outside the UK](https://www.gov.uk/faster-decision-visa-settlement/applying-outside-the-uk) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: documents](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/documents-you-must-provide) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: knowledge of English](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/knowledge-of-english) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student sponsor guidance Document 2: Sponsorship duties (collection updated 9 Oct 2026; paras 5.14, 5.107, 5.116–5.117, 5.135, 7.x reporting table)](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6ac8b9a9ab368efeb4c9342e/Student_Sponsor_Guidance_Doc_2_Final.pdf) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, SELT guidance (updated 12 Oct 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prove-your-english-language-abilities-with-a-secure-english-language-test-selt) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Bristol, India](https://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/countries/india.html) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of York, India](https://www.york.ac.uk/study/international/your-country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Manchester, India](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/country-specific-information/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Edinburgh, India (UG)](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/international/country/asia/south-asia/india) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Visa processing times outside the UK (updated 9 Sep 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-processing-times-applications-outside-the-uk) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [VFS Global, FAQ (via r.jina.ai)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/gbr/faq) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student route caseworker guidance (updated 3 Aug 2026; genuine student rule, interviews, partially paid fees, differential evidence)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-route-caseworker-guidance/student-and-child-student-accessible) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, IHS: how much](https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/how-much-pay) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Student (ST 5, 8.4, 12, 14, 17, 19, 22, 25.3, 26, 31, 33, 39)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-student) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, IHS overview](https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Administrative review](https://www.gov.uk/ask-for-a-visa-administrative-review) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: your course](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/course) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: switch](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/switch-to-this-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: family members](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/family-members) (checked 2026-10-15)

## When should I start preparing?

Start about 12 months before a September intake: shortlist from September to December, apply from November to March, and apply for the visa in July–August.

| When | Step |
|---|---|
| Sep–Dec (12–9 months before) | Shortlist; check India tier tables and sponsor register; check ATAS; UCAS 15 Oct for Oxbridge/medicine; Chevening/GREAT deadlines. |
| Nov–Mar | Apply directly (UG: UCAS by 13 Jan). English: Class XII score if accepted, else IELTS/PTE. MBA: GMAT/GRE. |
| Mar–Jun | Offers; pay deposit; apply for ATAS; loan letter; apply for halls (e.g. Manchester guarantee by 31 Aug). |
| Jun–Jul | Final results → unconditional offer → CAS. TB test. Hold funds 28 days. |
| Jul–Aug | Visa online + VFS (3 weeks); £558 + IHS; UKVI account. Book housing. |
| Arrival | Up to 1 month before the course. Register online at the university; GP; bank account (passport, offer letter, proof of address); NI number when working. |
| Course end | Graduate visa **in the UK before the Student visa expires**. |

## Can I work while studying, and what happens on arrival?

You can work 20 hours a week in term time and full-time in vacations. There is no address or police registration; on arrival you register online at the university.

- **No address or police registration.**
- **Housing (England, since 1 May 2026):** no rent before signing; at most **one month's rent in advance**; deposit max **5 weeks' rent**, holding deposit max **1 week**; deposit protected within **30 days**; tenancies periodic (tenant gives 2 months' notice); Right to Rent check by share code.
- **Scams:** fake listings asking for advance fees; fake Home Office/police callers demanding fines; "virtual kidnapping" calls; people selling VFS slots. UKVI never asks for fines by phone, gift cards or crypto.
- **Safety:** 999 emergencies, 101 non-emergency, 111 health advice; report hate crime to the police (also online).
- **Work:** 20 hours in any Monday-to-Sunday week in term time; full-time in vacations; no self-employment or permanent full-time job. Placements up to 1/3 of the course (1/2 for degree-level placements). Tax-free allowance £12,570.
- **Studies:** attendance/engagement is reported to UKVI (10 missed contact points can end sponsorship). Failed taught-master's exams are often resat the next academic year (Imperial) — may need a visa extension. A break over 60 days usually cancels the visa. Changing university needs a new CAS and visa.
- **Visa after the course:** 4 months for courses of 12 months or more; **only 2 months for courses under 12 months**.

Official sources:

- [Manchester, Accommodation guarantee](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/accommodation/student-accommodation/guarantee/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Manchester, Cost of living](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/fees-and-funding/cost-of-living/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Living costs (2026)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/living-costs/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Living costs (2026-27)](https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/undergraduate/fees-finance/living-costs) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Right to rent](https://www.gov.uk/check-tenant-right-to-rent-documents) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, eVisa](https://www.gov.uk/evisa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Guide to the Renters' Rights Act](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Fees you can charge as part of a tenancy (updated 7 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/fees-you-can-charge-as-part-of-a-tenancy) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Tenant Fees Act 2019: guidance for tenants (updated 7 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tenant-fees-act-2019-guidance-for-tenants) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Tenancy deposit protection](https://www.gov.uk/tenancy-deposit-protection) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Stay safe from scams](https://www.ed.ac.uk/new-students/international-students-hub/stay-safe-from-scams) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Scams (international students)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/students/international-students/scams/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Register with the police (ended 4 Aug 2022)](https://www.gov.uk/register-with-the-police) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: apply](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/apply) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [VFS Global, visa scam tips (11 Jun 2025, via r.jina.ai)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/gbr/news/protect-yourself-from-visa-scams) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, eVisa: travel with your eVisa](https://www.gov.uk/evisa/travel-with-your-evisa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Biometric residence permits](https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [NHS, Register with a GP](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-to-register-with-a-gp-surgery/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Register online; Arriving after welcome week; Travel documents ; ;](https://www.ed.ac.uk/new-students/international-students-hub/travel-documents) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, IHS overview](https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [NHS, When to use 111](https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, National Insurance number](https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Open a UK bank account](https://www.ed.ac.uk/new-students/get-started/finance/open-a-uk-bank-account) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Manchester, Welcome and induction](https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/get-ready/arrival-welcome-and-induction/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, TB test](https://www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, TB test countries](https://www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa/countries-where-you-need-a-tb-test-to-enter-the-uk) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Report hate crime; Contact the police ;](https://www.gov.uk/contact-police) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Student (ST 5, 8.4, 12, 14, 17, 19, 22, 25.3, 26, 31, 33, 39)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-student) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: what you can and cannot do](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/what-you-can-and-cannot-do) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, National Minimum Wage rates](https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Income Tax rates](https://www.gov.uk/income-tax-rates) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Resitting examinations](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/admin-services/student-records-and-data/for-current-students/undergraduate-and-taught-postgraduate/exams-assessments-and-regulations/resitting-examinations/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: extend](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/extend-your-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student sponsor guidance Document 2: Sponsorship duties (collection updated 9 Oct 2026; paras 5.14, 5.107, 5.116–5.117, 5.135, 7.x reporting table)](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6ac8b9a9ab368efeb4c9342e/Student_Sponsor_Guidance_Doc_2_Final.pdf) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: eligibility](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/eligibility) (checked 2026-10-15)

## Can I stay and work in the UK after graduating?

Yes: the Graduate visa gives 2 years if you apply by 31 Dec 2026, or 18 months from 1 Jan 2027 (PhD 3 years), for any job or self-employment. You can then switch to Skilled Worker (£41,700, or £33,400 as a new entrant).

- **Graduate visa:** 2 years if applied by 31 Dec 2026, 18 months if applied from 1 Jan 2027; 3 years for PhD; £937 + IHS; any job or self-employment. Must be in the UK; one per person.
- **Skilled Worker:** £41,700 or going rate; new entrant £33,400 / 70% (max 4 years incl. Graduate time). Switch once the course is complete (PhD after 24 months). English B2.
- **Settlement:** currently 5 years on Skilled Worker, 10 years long residence; "earned settlement" reform pending. Citizenship usually 12 months after settlement.
- **Back in India:** UGC equivalence (2025 Regulations) is **case by case** — a one-year master's is compared on credits, with up to 10% variation allowed and possible relaxation for top-ranked universities; decision in 15 working days. Franchised degrees excluded; medicine, pharmacy, nursing, law and architecture go to their councils (e.g. Bristol LLB is recognised by the Bar Council of India). AIU also issues equivalence. For an Indian government job or a PhD in India, the UGC equivalence of a one-year master's has to be checked before the course is chosen.

Official sources:

- [GOV.UK, Graduate visa](https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Graduate visa: eligibility](https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa/eligibility) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Graduate (updated 3 Aug 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-graduate) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Skilled Worker: your job](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/your-job) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Skilled Worker: paid less](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/when-you-can-be-paid-less) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Temporary shortage list (22 Jul 2025)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/skilled-worker-visa-temporary-shortage-list) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Skilled Worker: English](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/knowledge-of-english) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Skilled Worker: switch](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/switch-to-this-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Skilled Worker visa](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, ILR](https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Long residence](https://www.gov.uk/long-residence) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Earned settlement consultation](https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/earned-settlement) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Becoming a British citizen](https://www.gov.uk/becoming-a-british-citizen/check-if-you-can-apply) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Regulated Professions Register launch (14 Jun 2023)](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/regulated-professions-register-launch) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Bristol, India](https://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/countries/india.html) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UGC (Recognition and Grant of Equivalence to Qualifications obtained from Foreign Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2025, Gazette text](https://equivalence.ugc.ac.in/content/download/regulation.pdf) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UGC Equivalence Portal FAQs](https://equivalence.ugc.ac.in/Home/faq) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UGC, Public notice (4 Apr 2025)](https://www.ugc.gov.in/pdfnews/0775288_Public-Notice---Equivalence-Regulations.pdf) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [AIU, Equivalence of degree](https://aiu.ac.in/frontpage/equivalence-of-degree/) (checked 2026-10-15)

## Common mistakes Indian students make

The costliest mistakes: counting on 2 years of post-study work when you will apply from 1 Jan 2027, expecting a spouse visa on a taught master’s, and funds not held for 28 days.

1. Promising 2 years of post-study work to students who will apply from 1 Jan 2027.
2. Promising a spouse visa on a taught master's.
3. Funds not held 28 days, statements older than 31 days, or a conditional/old loan letter.
4. Weak answers at the UKVI credibility interview.
5. Late ATAS (slow April–September).
6. Part-time master's — no work allowed.
7. Course under 12 months: only 2 months after the end to apply for the Graduate visa.
8. Paying months of rent upfront, unprotected deposits, scam listings, or "VFS slot" sellers.
9. Assuming a one-year master's automatically counts as a two-year Indian master's.
10. Unlicensed or franchised colleges, or a teaching college mistaken for the awarding university.

Official sources:

- [GOV.UK, Graduate visa](https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Graduate visa: eligibility](https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa/eligibility) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Graduate (updated 3 Aug 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-graduate) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Student visa: family members](https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/family-members) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Immigration Rules, Appendix Student (ST 5, 8.4, 12, 14, 17, 19, 22, 25.3, 26, 31, 33, 39)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-student) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Visa brake (26 Mar 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visa-brake-changes-to-the-uk-visa-system) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Guide to the Renters' Rights Act](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act/guide-to-the-renters-rights-act) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Fees you can charge as part of a tenancy (updated 7 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/fees-you-can-charge-as-part-of-a-tenancy) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Tenant Fees Act 2019: guidance for tenants (updated 7 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tenant-fees-act-2019-guidance-for-tenants) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Skilled Worker: English](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/knowledge-of-english) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, International student levy (updated 13 Jul 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/introducing-an-international-student-levy-on-higher-education-providers) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, SELT guidance (updated 12 Oct 2026)](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prove-your-english-language-abilities-with-a-secure-english-language-test-selt) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Skilled Worker visa](https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, ILR](https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Long residence](https://www.gov.uk/long-residence) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Earned settlement consultation](https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/earned-settlement) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, eVisa](https://www.gov.uk/evisa) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [GOV.UK, Biometric residence permits](https://www.gov.uk/biometric-residence-permits) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of Bristol, India](https://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/countries/india.html) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [University of York, India](https://www.york.ac.uk/study/international/your-country/india/) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [VFS Global, visa scam tips (11 Jun 2025, via r.jina.ai)](https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/gbr/news/protect-yourself-from-visa-scams) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [UKVI, Student route caseworker guidance (updated 3 Aug 2026; genuine student rule, interviews, partially paid fees, differential evidence)](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/student-route-caseworker-guidance/student-and-child-student-accessible) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Edinburgh, Stay safe from scams](https://www.ed.ac.uk/new-students/international-students-hub/stay-safe-from-scams) (checked 2026-10-15)
- [Imperial, Scams (international students)](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/students/international-students/scams/) (checked 2026-10-15)

## Job market

- [Jobs in the UK for international graduates](https://uniferedu.com/job-market-research/uk): pay and visas, by field.