UK Visas

Student (Tier 4) Visa — Checklist

A step-by-step checklist for Student visa applications made outside the UK. Tick each item as you prepare documents and proofs. Adapted from IUFP guidance.

Assessment Financial Evidence Documents Other Checks

Pro tip: Keep a single PDF per category (e.g., finance) with a cover page summarising amounts, dates, and payers. It helps reviews go faster.

Assessment Requirements

SELT certificate (if applicable) — e.g., IELTS. Several UK universities accept Credits Grade in WAEC English in place of IELTS. IELTS overall 6.0 for degree; 6.5 for postgraduate; not less than 5.5 in each sub-test. Copies of all qualifications used to assess your offer (as listed on your CAS).

Financial Evidence

Bank statement/letter in applicant's name. Bank statement/letter in parent(s)/legal guardian(s) name(s) + original birth certificate + consent letter. Joint bank account (with applicant's name on it). Educational bank scheme loan (in applicant's name; ≤ 6 months old). Government sponsorship letter (include dependants if applicable).

⚠️ Business accounts and stocks/shares are not permitted.

Total amount required

Inner London living costs: £13,347 (£1,483 × 9 months).
Outer London living costs: £10,224 (£1,136 × 9 months).
Plus: full academic year course fees, less deposit paid.

28-day & statement rules

Funds must be held for a full 28 consecutive days before CAS is issued.
Bank statement closing balance must be ≤ 31 days old on visa application date.
Balance must never drop below the required amount within the 28 days.
CAS should be updated with any fees paid before assigning.

Check your bank is on the accepted institutions list (UKVI). Convert foreign currency using closing balance (e.g., OANDA).

Documents

Passport valid for entry to the UK. Tuberculosis (TB) certificate if required (check country list). Official translations for documents not in English, attached to originals.

Applicants under 18 (before application date)

Letter from parent/legal guardian confirming relationship and permissions (study, living, travel).
Original birth certificate (or adoption certificate).

Other Considerations

Time limits & academic progression

All previous UK study (and time below/at degree level) must be assessed before issuing CAS.
If limits exceeded or progression isn't clear, do not assign a CAS.
For a second Masters, ensure the new programme is justified; a course director statement may be required.

Useful links

UKCISA — eligibility, English, maintenance, passport guidance.
UKVI financial institutions list; OANDA currency converter; TB test countries.