UK Short-Term Study Visa
If you’re planning to attend a short course in the UK, such as an English language class or a summer school, the UK Short-Term Study Visa might be the right fit for you. This visa is designed for temporary educational visits and allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months.
However, this visa is not suitable for those planning to enroll in pre-sessional English programs that lead to further study, as it cannot be extended from within the UK. If your course duration exceeds six months or leads to a degree program, you should apply under the Student Route visa instead.
Want to explore your study visa options? Contact our advisors today for a free eligibility assessment at +2080162308.
If you’re planning to attend a short course in the UK, such as an English language class or a summer school, the UK Short-Term Study Visa might be the right fit for you. This visa is designed for temporary educational visits and allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months.
However, this visa is not suitable for those planning to enroll in pre-sessional English programs that lead to further study, as it cannot be extended from within the UK. If your course duration exceeds six months or leads to a degree program, you should apply under the Student Route visa instead.
Want to explore your study visa options? Contact our advisors today for a free eligibility assessment at +2080162308.
What is the UK Short-Term Study Visa?
The Short-Term Study Visa is a specialized visa category designed for international students who wish to undertake an English language course in the UK lasting up to 11 months. This route is strictly for learning English as a foreign language courses involving any other subjects or mixed programs are not permitted under this visa.
Applicants under this visa are restricted to a single course, and changing programs or enrolling in additional studies while in the UK is not allowed. Additionally, studying at state-funded schools or academies is prohibited.
It’s important to note that this visa does not allow any form of work, whether paid, unpaid, or as part of a work placement. You also cannot carry out business or professional activities. Unlike the standard Student Visa, the Short-Term Study Visa does not allow dependents you cannot bring family members with you to the UK on this visa.
To be considered for a Short-Term Student Visa for English language study in the UK, you must meet the specific criteria set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The key requirements include:
Minimum Age Requirement: You must be 16 years or older at the time of application.
Application Location: You must apply from outside the UK.
Course Acceptance: You must have been offered a place on a full-time English language course (excluding all other subjects) at an accredited UK institution, with a duration of no more than 11 months.
Financial Proof: You must show evidence that your tuition fees are paid or that you have sufficient funds to cover the cost of your course.
Intention to Study Only English: You cannot use this visa to:
- Study a course longer than 11 months
- Enroll in an academy or state-funded school.
- Work or engage in business activities in the UK
- Make the UK your permanent residence.
Planned Departure: You must intend to leave the UK either:
- Within 30 days after your course ends, or
- At the end of 11 months, whichever comes first.
Self-Sufficiency: You must be able to support and accommodate yourself during your stay without relying on public funds.
Return Travel: You should have enough money to pay for your return or onward journey from the UK.
Parental Consent (if under 18): If you are 16 or 17, you’ll need written consent from your parents or legal guardian.
The specific documentation or additional evidence required may depend on your circumstances. To ensure your application meets all the necessary standards, it’s best to consult with a qualified immigration adviser.
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To meet the course requirements for a UK Short-Term Student Visa (English Language), you must have a written confirmation from your course provider stating that you have been accepted onto an English language course. This course must focus solely on teaching English and must not exceed 11 months in duration. While this visa route does not require a licensed sponsor, applicants must be enrolled at a recognised institution. The school or college you choose must be accredited by a Home Office-approved inspection body, which ensures that it meets the UK’s official educational standards. Studying at an accredited institution is essential, as it validates the legitimacy of your course and strengthens your visa application.
If you’re planning to study English in the UK for up to 11 months, you’ll need to apply for a Short-Term Study Visa from outside the UK. Here’s how to begin your application process:
Complete the Online Application
Start by submitting your visa application through the official GOV.UK website. Applications can be made no earlier than 3 months before your intended travel date.
Apply From Outside the UK Only
You must submit your application from outside the UK. Entry under this visa category cannot be granted at the UK border, so advanced approval is essential.
Attend a Biometric Appointment
Once your application is submitted, you will need to book an appointment at a visa application centre in your home country (or where you legally reside). There, you’ll submit:
- Biometric information (fingerprints and photograph)
- Supporting documentation in original form and certified translations if documents are not in English or Welsh
Required Documents Include:
- A valid passport or travel document
- A formal letter of acceptance from your English language course provider (stating course name, duration, and cost)
- Proof of funds showing you can support yourself financially (e.g., bank statements or payslips for the last 6 months)
- Sponsor financial details, if applicable
- Details of your UK accommodation and travel plans
- Evidence of tuition fee payment or funds available to pay
Additional Documents (If Applicable):
- Proof of legal residence in the country where you’re applying (if you are not a national)
- TB test certificate, if required under UK immigration rules (see Appendix T if you’ve been in a listed country for over 6 months)
Ensure all documents are well-organized and up to date before your appointment to avoid delays. For complex situations, it’s best to consult with an immigration adviser.
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You can submit your Short-Term Study Visa application online or through a visa application centre in your country of residence. On average, visa processing takes around 6 to 8 weeks from the date of submission.
To avoid any travel delays, it is strongly recommended to apply well in advance of your intended arrival in the UK. Early preparation ensures smoother processing and allows time to gather any additional documents if needed.
When applying for a Short-Term Study Visa (English Language), you’ll need to pay an application fee, which varies depending on government updates. Most applicants receive a decision within 3 weeks, although faster processing may be available in some countries for an additional cost. Check with your local visa application centre for details.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
In addition to the application fee, you’ll also be required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your online application. This provides access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) throughout your stay.
Refund Eligibility
If your application is refused or withdrawn, the IHS fee is usually refunded in full, though the visa application fee is non-refundable.
Be sure to check the latest fees on the official GOV.UK website or consult your visa centre before applying.
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When applying for a Short-Term Study Visa to the UK, you must provide a range of documents to demonstrate that you meet the eligibility criteria.
You’ll begin by submitting a fully completed online application form via the official UK Government website. Alongside your application, you must include proof of payment for both the visa fee (£200) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is currently £776.
A valid passport or travel document is required to confirm your identity and travel eligibility. You will also need to submit an official acceptance letter from an accredited UK institution. This letter should clearly state your:
- Full name
- Course title and nature
- Course duration (not exceeding 11 months)
- Confirmation of total tuition fee
You must show that you can financially support yourself throughout your stay without relying on public funds or working in the UK. This can be demonstrated through:
- Recent bank statements or payslips
- A sponsor’s financial documents, if applicable
- Proof of course fee payment
In addition, you should provide a basic travel itinerary and details of your intended accommodation in the UK. If applicable, you may also need to submit a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate, especially if you’ve lived in a country listed under Appendix T for more than six months before applying.
A certified translation must accompany all documents that are not in English or Welsh. You will also be required to attend a biometric appointment, where your fingerprints and digital photograph will be taken.
Additional Requirements for Applicants Under 18
If you are under 18, you must provide:
- Details of your travel, accommodation, and care arrangements while in the UK
- Legal written consent from both parents or legal guardians, including their contact information and confirmation that they allow you to travel and study in the UK
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Unfortunately, family members are not permitted to accompany you under the Short-Term Study Visa route. This visa does not allow dependents, meaning your spouse, partner, or children cannot join you under the same application.
If your family wishes to travel with you, they must apply separately as Standard Visitors. As visitors, they can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months, but they cannot work and may only study if the course meets specific criteria.
If you intend to bring dependents with you, consider applying under the Student Visa route, which does allow eligible applicants to bring family members, provided certain conditions are met.
If your application for a Short-Term Study Visa is refused, you have two main options to consider:
Request an Administrative Review
You may challenge the decision by applying for an administrative review within 28 days of receiving the refusal notice. The fee for this process is £80.
- If successful, the refusal will be overturned and removed from your immigration record.
- However, any future UK visa applications must still mention the initial refusal and explain that it was later reversed.
- Be aware that this process may take time, potentially causing you to miss the start of your course.
Submit a New Visa Application
You can choose to reapply for the visa by submitting a fresh application. However, you will need to declare your previous refusal, which may affect your chances depending on the reasons for the initial rejection.
Before reapplying or requesting a review, consider seeking advice from a qualified immigration adviser to strengthen your case and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
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With in-depth knowledge of UK Home Office rules, we offer clear, strategic advice on the most suitable visa options based on your academic plans. From preparing documentation to resolving complex issues, we ensure your application is handled with precision and care.
At the heart of our practice is a commitment to being approachable, responsive, and results-focused. We deliver a friendly and professional service, ensuring that students feel supported and empowered throughout the entire immigration journey.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my Short-Term Study Visa while in the UK?
No, you cannot extend a Short-Term Study Visa from within the UK. If you wish to continue studying, you’ll need to leave the UK and apply for a different visa, such as the Student Route. This visa is strictly limited to a maximum stay of 11 months.
Can I work in the UK while on a Short-Term Study Visa?
No, this visa does not allow any kind of work, whether paid, unpaid, or as part of a work placement. You also cannot engage in any business or professional activity. Violating these rules could affect your current and future UK immigration status.
Can I bring my family with me on a Short-Term Study Visa?
You are not allowed to bring dependents under this visa category. If your spouse or children want to join you, they must apply separately as Standard Visitors, subject to their own visa rules. Alternatively, the Student Route may allow family members if the eligibility requirements are met.
What happens if my Short-Term Study Visa is refused?
If your application is refused, you can request an administrative review within 28 days, for a fee of £80. If successful, the refusal will be overturned, but the original refusal must still be declared in future visa applications. Alternatively, you can choose to submit a new visa application.
What documents do I need for a Short-Term Study Visa?
You’ll need your passport, a letter of acceptance from an accredited school, proof of funds, and details of your travel and accommodation plans. Additional documents may include a TB certificate, biometric data, and parental consent if the individual is under 18 years of age. Certified translations must accompany all non-English or Welsh documents.
