UK Student visa - Visa process & documents

The UK university emails a link to the address you gave for admission, and you log in to view your CAS statement. Sometimes you must request a CAS number and upload documents first. You verify the details, report errors by email, then receive a final CAS statement and number.

SOP importance varies by country. It is usually rated high in the USA, UK and New Zealand, medium to high in Canada, Australia and Ireland, and medium in Germany. For some countries, it also matters for the visa. Verify each requirement with the official university and immigration pages.

You need a CAS letter because it carries a unique 14-digit reference number that you enter on your UK student visa application to link it with your university. It is typically valid for six months from issue, so check the official UK government page for the latest rules.

A combined CAS number is issued to students who will study more than one course together at the same university. It usually allows you to apply for one visa that covers your stay until both courses are complete. Confirm the details with your university and official UK visa guidance.

IELTS for UKVI requirements usually depend on your UK visa category and its CEFR level. A1 and A2 need an IELTS for UKVI Life Skills pass, B1 can need a Life Skills pass or 4.0 in each component, B2 around 5.5 and C1 around 7.0. Confirm on gov.uk.

Yes, as an Indian student you are now required to use an eVisa, which replaces the physical sticker in your passport with an online record linked to your UKVI account. It is used for entry at the UK border, renting homes, opening bank accounts and employability checks.

From 26 March 2027 onwards, the English proficiency needed to obtain UK PR rises from CEFR B1 to CEFR B2. B2 is also the level at which most universities accept international students, so verify the final rules and dates on the official UK government site.

For a 12-month MBA in the UK, the student visa is typically valid for around 16 months. That leaves roughly four months after the course to look for a job. Visa rules keep changing, so confirm the latest duration on the official UK government page before you plan your timeline.