UK Student Visa Requirements for Sri Lankan Students

Looking for UK student visa requirements for Sri Lankan students?

The UK has long been a popular destination for Sri Lankan students seeking higher education. The country not only features world-class universities but also has diverse cultural experiences for post-study work opportunities.

Lankan students must obtain a Student Visa (previously Tier 4) to study in the UK. This guide briefly summarizes the UK student visa requirements for Sri Lankan applicants (eligibility, procedures, documents, etc.).

Types of UK Student Visas

• Student Route (General) Visa – It’s for students (older than 16 years) who a licensed student sponsor has received.
• Short-term Study Visa – This is for students who have received a place in a short-term course, like training programs or language courses.
• Student Route (Child) Visa – It’s for students (aged 4 to 17) who wish to study at an independent fee-paying UK school.

Most of the Lankan students apply for either undergraduate or postgraduate programs. And they’ll need a Student Visa.

Eligibility Criteria for a UK Student Visa

• Having an unconditional offer from a UK higher education institution.
• Getting a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the varsity.
• Proving the financial capability to cover tuition fees and living costs.
• Meeting the standard English language proficiency requirements.
• Providing a valid passport along with other supporting documents.
• Having proof of no criminal record while meeting health requirements.
• Obtaining a TB (tuberculosis) test certificate for staying over six months.

Necessary Documents for UK Student Visa Application

A. Mandatory Documents

• Valid Passport (must be valid for the duration of the stay).
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the university.
• Bank statements as financial proof of sufficient tuition funds.
• English Language Proficiency Test Results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or others).
• Recent Passport-Sized Photographs (meeting UKVI guidelines).
• Academic Transcripts and Certificates (O/L, A/L, Degree transcripts).
• TB Certificate (staying in the UK for more than 6months).

B. Additional Documents (when applicable)

• Parental consent letter (for students under 18)
• Previous UK Visa details (if any)
• Sponsorship letter (if applicable)
• Proof of accommodation in the UK
• ATAS Certificate (for specific security clearance)

Financial Requirements for UK Student Visa

Lankan students must demonstrate they have enough funds to support themselves in the UK. The financial requirement includes –

1. Tuition Fees – You must have proof of sufficient funds to cover one academic year’s tuition fees (as mentioned in the CAS letter).
2. Living Expenses (per UK Home Office guidelines) – Students must show evidence of funds to cover living costs for up to 9 months. The funds must be in a bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before the visa application.

Living in London costs about £1,334 per month (up to £12,006 for 9 months). And it’s £1,023 per month (up to £9,207 for 9 months) for outside London area.

English Language Requirements

Almost all Lankan students need to prove English proficiency. Accepted tests include –

• IELTS Academic – Minimum 5.5 to 7.0, depending on the university.
• TOEFL iBT – Minimum score 72 to 100.
• PTE Academic – Minimum 51 to 76.
• Duolingo English Test – Some universities accept scores of 95 – 125.

Students applying to UK universities on the UKVI SELT-approved list may need to take a Secure English Language Test (SELT).

UK Student Visa Application Process for Lankan Students

· Step #01 – Receiving Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

The UK university provides a CAS reference number (essential for the visa application) upon securing your admission.

· Step #02 – Completing the Online Visa Application

Visit the UK Government website(https://www.gov.uk/student-visa).Fill out the Student Visa (Tier 4) application form with precise details. Pay the required visa fee (£490) online to submit your application.

· Step #03 – Paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

The IHS fee is about £470 per year for full-time students. It provides access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).

· Step #04 – Booking a Biometric Appointment

Visit the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Colombo for fingerprint scans and photo submissions.

· Step #05 – Submit the Required Documents

Upload the scanned copies of all necessary documents via the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) system.

· Step #06 – Attending a Visa Interview (when required)

Some applicants may be asked for a Credibility Interview via video call for further clarification on personal info/details.

· Step #07 – Waiting for a Decision

The standard processing time is about 3 – 4 weeks. Priority service (5 days) and Super Priority service (24 hours) are available for additional fees.

Post-Study Work Opportunities

After completing the studies, Lankan students can apply for the UK Graduate Route (Post-Study Work Visa). It allows a 2-year stay for Bachelor’s/Master’s graduates and a 3-year stay for PhD graduates.

Common Reasons for UK Student Visa Rejection

• Insufficient financial proof.
• Incorrect or missing documents.
• Failure to meet English language requirements.
• Gaps in academic history without explanation.
• Inconsistencies in application details.

Securing a UK Student Visa for Lankan students is no difficult task. All you need to do is be careful regarding details and documents. The simplified step-by-step guide can help applicants improve their chances of a successful visa application for an exciting educational journey in the UK.

Contact TEVS a UK student visa consultant in Sri Lanka for more information’s.