After getting the UK student visa, do we receive it directly or do we have to pay the university first?

The UK student visa process follows a specific mandatory sequence: you pay a deposit to the university first, the university issues your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), and then you apply for and receive your student visa. You cannot apply for the visa directly without first securing your CAS from the university.

The Correct Order: Deposit - CAS - Visa

What Is a CAS and Why Do You Need It?

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a unique 14-character reference number that your UK university generates specifically for you. It contains your course details, start date, tuition fee paid, and institution information. Without a valid CAS number, your student visa application cannot proceed.

Financial Requirements for the Visa Application

When applying for the visa, you must show funds in your bank account to cover:

• Remaining first-year tuition: Total first-year fees minus the deposit already paid

• Living costs: GBP 1,334/month for up to 9 months in London (GBP 12,006 total), or GBP 1,023/month outside London (GBP 9,207 total)

• 28-day rule: These funds must have been in your account continuously for 28 days before your visa application date

My Advice

Students often ask me whether they should wait to pay the deposit until they are "sure" about going. My advice is - once you have decided on a university, pay the deposit as early as possible. Your CAS is only issued after the deposit, and your CAS has an expiry date (usually 6 months). If you delay the deposit, you delay everything downstream - CAS, visa, accommodation, everything. The deposit is refundable in most cases if your visa is refused, so there is no real risk in paying early.