To be eligible for the Child Student Visa, applicants typically must meet the following criteria:

• Be aged 4 to 17 years old.
• Have an unconditional offer of a place at an independent UK school that is licensed student sponsor
• Provide proof of parental consent and suitable care arrangements.
• Demonstrate financial capability to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
• Be able to prove that you intend to leave the UK after your studies have finished

Securing a place for your education course:

• To be eligible for a UK Child Student Visa, you must have an unconditional offer of a place on a course with a licensed Child Student sponsor. Your chosen educational institution will provide you with a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) once they’ve offered you a place on your desired course. Remember, this CAS is an essential prerequisite for your visa application. This means that your place on the course is guaranteed and that the sponsor meets the UK government’s requirements for hosting international students.

Course you can study:

• As a Child Student, you have the opportunity to enrol in courses at independent schools, following specific guidelines. These courses align with either the national curriculum, the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) at level 3 or below, or the education inspection standards for independent schools.
• Additionally, you can opt for a course that holds equivalent academic recognition by various educational authorities such as
  • Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted)
  • Education Scotland
  • Estyn (in Wales)
  • Education and Training Inspectorate (in Northern Ireland)
  • If needed, a short ‘pre-sessional’ course can help you prepare for your main academic program. However, it’s essential to note that foundation courses leading directly to higher education institutions are not permitted under this visa category.

The Importance of Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) Document:

• Once your education provider extends a course offer, they will send you a significant document known as the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). This reference number plays a pivotal role in your visa application process. You must accurately enter this CAS reference when submitting your visa application. Importantly, your CAS can encompass both the pre-sessional course, if applicable, and your primary course of study.
• Remember to initiate your visa application process within 6 months of receiving your CAS to ensure a smooth process.

Tips for Choosing a Course and CAS

• Do your research to find a course that is right for you and that meets the requirements for a UK Child Student Visa.
• Make sure that the course provider is a licensed Child Student sponsor.
• Apply for your visa as soon as possible after receiving your CAS.

Financial Requirements for Child Student Visa

Meeting Financial Criteria:

• Obtaining a Child Student Visa in the UK requires demonstrating sufficient financial capability to cover course expenses and living costs during the stay in the country. The specific amount you need depends on various factors such as your living arrangements and who will be looking after child student.

Living with Your Parent or Guardian:

If you plan to live with your parent or guardian, they must hold a valid Parent of a Child Student visa to accompany you to the UK. If you are over 12, your parent will not be eligible, unless you have a younger sibling who is under 12 and also has a Child Student Visa.

• There should be enough funds to cover course fees for one academic year (up to 9 months).
• Additionally, you’ll require £1,560 per month (for up to 9 months) to support both you and your parent.
• If you have younger siblings under 12 years old accompanying you with a Child Student visa, your parent will need an extra £625 per month (for up to 9 months) for each additional child.

Boarding at an Independent School:

• If you will board at an independent school, you must have enough money to pay for your course fees and your boarding fees for one academic year (up to 9 months).

Living with a Foster Carer or Close Relative:

• If your living arrangements involve staying with a foster carer or a close relative (who is not your parent), you’ll need funds to cover your course fees for one academic year (up to 9 months). Your foster carer or close relative must confirm their financial capacity of at least £570 per month (for up to 9 months). It’s essential to note that your foster carer or close relative should be either a British citizen or have ‘indefinite leave to remain’ in the UK. They cannot be your parent.

Independent Living at 16 or 17:

• If you are 16 or 17 years old and plan to live independently, you must ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your course fees for one academic year (up to 9 months). Additionally, you’ll need either £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for studying in London (City of London and the 32 London boroughs) or £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) for studying outside of London.

Evidence to prove financial capability:

It’s required to provide evidence that you or your parent/guardian have the required funds available for at least 28 consecutive days. The end date of this 28-day period must fall within 31 days of your visa application date. You can prove that you have enough money by providing:

• Bank statements
• A letter from your bank confirming that you have the required amount of money in your account
• Evidence of a student loan or financial sponsorship.

Exceptions to Financial Proof:

• There are certain exceptions where you are not required to prove your financial capacity. These include holding a valid UK visa for at least 12 months immediately prior to your Child Student visa application (while currently being in the UK) or being a national of specific countries or territories listed under the ‘differential evidence requirement.’

Requirements to Extend Your Child Student Visa:

Extending your Child Student Visa in the UK is essential to continue your child’s education. To successfully extend this visa, you must meet specific requirements. These criteria typically include:

• CAS: A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your course provider
• Parental Consent: Written consent from your parent or legal guardian for your study in the UK
• Course Enrolment: You must continue to be enrolled and actively participating in a course of study with a licensed student sponsor in the UK. Your course should meet the eligibility requirements for a Student Visa extension.
• Academic Progress: You must demonstrate that you are making satisfactory academic progress in your course. This can involve maintaining a certain level of attendance, completing coursework, and achieving passing grades or academic milestones.
• Biometric Information: You may be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) as part of the application process.
• Healthcare Surcharge: You will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your application to access healthcare services provided by the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
• In addition to above listed criteria, you will also need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover course fees and living expenses. Here are the requirements in detail:

Financial Proof:

• One of the primary requirements for extending your Child Student Visa is providing evidence of financial capability. You can prove that you have enough money by providing:
• Bank Statements: Submit recent bank statements that clearly show your financial transactions, including savings and available funds.
• Letter from Your Bank: Obtain a letter from your bank confirming that your account holds the required amount of money necessary to support your child’s education and living expenses in the UK.
• Evidence of a Student Loan or Financial Sponsorship: If your child is receiving financial support through a student loan or sponsorship, you should provide documentation to prove the availability of these funds.

To obtain professional, most up-to-date, and accurate advice on your ‘Student Visa’ requirement, please contact our experienced, and accredited team of immigration consultants on 020 3911 1115 or send us your query using this form or email us on ukvisa@agclservices.com or request a call back by providing your contact details here and we will get back to you asap.

Mandatory Documents required for a UK Child Student Visa Application

• Valid Travel Document: To apply for a Child Student visa, you must possess a valid passport or other travel documentation
• CAS: A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your course provider
• Parental Consent: You’ll need written consent from your both parents (or one parent if they have sole responsibility) or a legal guardian, affirming their approval for your study in the UK. This consent should cover various aspects, including
  • Your visa application
  • Your living arrangements and care in the UK
  • Your travel to the UK
• Foster Care: If you will be living with a close relative or foster carer, you will need to provide additional evidence.
  • A letter of invitation from your close relative or foster carer if you will be living with them
• A letter from your parent or legal guardian explaining why one parent is unable to provide consent for your visa application.

Additional documents (depending on your circumstances)

• Proof that you have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course
• Proof of your relationship to your parent or guardian
• Evidence of the qualifications you used to get a place on your course
• Your tuberculosis (TB) test results
• Written consent for your application from your financial sponsor if you have received sponsorship for your course fees and living costs in the last 12 months
• A police clearance certificate from your home country
• Medical records or reports if you have any health conditions.

Why accurate documentation is important

• Accurate documentation is essential for success in any visa application, including the UK Child Student Visa. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) officers will carefully review all of your documents to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for the visa. If any of your documents are incomplete, inaccurate, or missing, it could lead to your application being delayed or even denied.

How we can help as an immigration firm

At our immigration firm AGCL Services, we have extensive experience in helping children apply for UK Child Student Visas. We can assist you with the following:

• Reviewing your documents to ensure that they are complete, accurate, and meet the UKVI’s requirements
• Preparing your visa application form and supporting documentation
• Submitting your visa application to the UKVI
• Representing you throughout the visa application process, including responding to any requests for additional information from the UKVI.

Tips for Preparing Your Documents

• Make sure that all of your documents are complete, accurate, and up-to-date.
• Translate any documents that are not in English into English by a certified translator.
• Provide certified copies of all of your documents.
• Keep a copy of all of the documents you submit for your visa application.

If you have any questions about the required documentation for a UK Child Student Visa application, or if you need help preparing your documents, please contact us. We are here to help you to achieve your immigration goals.

Child student visa application process when visa applied from outside the UK

• Find an accredited UK independent school. You can find a list of accredited UK primary / secondary schools on the UK government website to secure an offer of admission from a UK institution.
• Apply for a place to secure an admission for a course at a UK school. Once you have been accepted for a place at a UK school, you will receive a ‘Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)’ document.
• Contact one of our experts at AGCL Services who would be able to assist you throughout your visa application journey seamlessly from completing required applications forms to submitting your completed application along with mandatory and supporting documents, taking all the hassle away from you.
• Pay the visa application fee. The visa application fee varies depending on your nationality.
• Book a biometric appointment
• Provide supporting documents. You will need to provide supporting documents, such as your letter of acceptance, your passport, and proof of funds.
• Attend the biometric appointment You may be required to attend a visa interview at a British embassy or consulate.
• Submit the visa application.

Child student visa application process when visa applied from inside the UK

• While those already in the UK can switch to this visa category. The application involves submitting required documents, attending a biometric appointment, and paying the necessary fees.
• Contact one of our experts at AGCL Services who would be able to assist you throughout your visa application journey seamlessly from completing required applications forms to submitting your completed application along with mandatory and supporting documents, taking all the hassle away from you. Pay the visa application fee
• Gather the required supporting documentation
• Submit the visa application
• Once the visa application has been submitted, it will be processed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). If the application is successful, the child will be granted a UK Child Student Visa and will be able to travel to the UK to study.

Tips for increasing your chances of success when applying for a UK Student Visa

• Make sure that you meet all of the eligibility criteria for the visa.
• Complete the visa application form carefully and accurately.
• Provide all of the required supporting documents.
• Be prepared to answer questions about your studies and your plans for after your studies have finished.
• Our expert team at Immigration Visa Expert will guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth and successful application for your child’s UK education journey.

Child Student Visa Processing Time and Decision

• When it comes to applying for a Child Student Visa, the timing can vary depending on whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK.

Visa processing time taken by UK Home office when Child Student Visa application made from outside the UK

• Visa processing times for applications made outside the UK can vary depending on the country and the time of the year. The earliest you can apply for a UK Child Student Visa is 6 months before your course starts if you are applying from outside the UK. Generally, it is advisable to apply well in advance, usually three months before your course start date. Processing times can range from a few weeks to a few months, so planning ahead is essential. You can plan your arrival in the UK up to 1 month before your course start date.

Visa processing time taken by UK Home office when applying Child Student Visa from within the UK

• If you are applying from inside the UK, the earliest you can apply is 3 months before your course starts. You must apply before your current visa expires, and your new course must begin within 28 days of your current visa expiring.

Processing Time for Visa Decision

• If you’re applying from outside the UK, you can expect a decision on your application within approximately 3 weeks. However, for those seeking a faster decision, there may be an option to expedite the process by paying an additional fee. You will be informed if this option is available when you submit your application.
• If you’re applying from within the UK, then it typically takes up to 8 weeks for a decision to be made. Similar to the standard application process, you might have the option to pay for expedited processing.

Faster Decision Services

For those looking to accelerate the decision-making process for their visa, there are two expedited services available:

• the ‘priority service’ and the ‘super priority service.’
• With the ‘priority service,’ you can typically anticipate a decision within five working days or shortly thereafter.
• With the ‘super priority service’ ensures that you usually receive a decision by the end of the following working day or soon after.
• However, please be aware that in some cases where additional information is required by the Home Office, the decision may take longer than expected.

How long you can stay in the UK with a Child Student Visa?

Initial Visa Duration:

• The duration of your stay in the UK is determined by your age at the time of application and the length of your course. This means that you will be able to stay in the UK for the duration of your studies, and then for an additional 4 months afterwards. E.g., if you are under 16 years old, you can stay for the duration of your course (up to 6 years) plus an additional 4 months afterward. If you are 16 or 17 years old, your stay can be for the length of your course (up to 3 years) plus 4 extra months following the course’s completion.
• Renewal Visa Duration / Visa Duration after Extension:
  • The renewal visa for the UK Child Student Visa category mirrors the initial visa’s duration. If your child wishes to continue their education in the UK, they can apply for an extension to their visa. The extension will cover the length of their new course, and they will also have an additional four months to remain in the country after completing their studies. This flexibility allows students to seamlessly transition from one educational pursuit to the next without any disruptions.

Settlement (ILR) Eligibility:

• Nope, it is not allowed to apply for settlement or ILR visa after completion of five years on the UK Child Student Visa category. The UK Child Student Visa is a temporary visa, and it does not lead to settlement in the UK.

 Switching from Another Visa Category:

• Yes, it is possible to switch to a Child Student Visa category if the person is already in the UK under a different visa category. This flexibility allows individuals to adapt their immigration status to pursue educational opportunities. However, there are specific eligibility criteria and requirements that must be met to make this switch successfully. It is advisable to seek professional guidance to navigate the process smoothly and ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
• Navigating the UK Child Student Visa category involves understanding the various aspects of visa duration, renewal, settlement eligibility, processing times, and switching from other visa categories. At AGCL Services, we specialize in providing comprehensive guidance and support tailored to your child’s unique situation, ensuring a successful and hassle-free journey towards their educational goals in the UK.

Child Student Visa Application Fees

• In terms of fees, the cost of applying for a Child Student Visa is £490 whether you are applying from outside or inside the UK. Additionally, you are required to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application, the amount of which is determined by the duration of your visa, and it’s advisable to confirm the specific surcharge applicable to your circumstances before proceeding with your application.

Other charges may be applicable for Child Student Visa application

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): The IHS is a charge that is paid by all overseas visitors to the UK who plan to stay for longer than 6 months. The IHS is used to fund the National Health Service (NHS). The specific amount for the IHS fee depends on the length of your child’s visa and can be calculated on the government’s official website.
• Biometric fee: The biometric fee is a charge that is paid by all visa applicants who need to give their fingerprints and a photograph. The biometric fee is £19.23.
• Priority and Super Priority Visa Services: The UK Home Office offers two priority visa services: Priority Visa Service and Super Priority Visa Service. Please note that these fees are in addition to the standard visa application fee.
• Priority Visa Service: The Priority Visa Service allows you to get a decision on your visa application within 5 working days. The cost of the Priority Visa Service is £500.
• Super Priority Visa Service: The Super Priority Visa Service allows you to get a decision on your visa application within 1 working day. The cost of the Super Priority Visa Service is £1,000.
• If you are applying for the Priority service, you will need to attend a visa application centre in person on the same day that you submit your online application to have your fingerprints and photo taken.
• The Priority and Super Priority services are designed to speed up the visa application process. However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that your application will be processed within the specified timeframe.

In addition to the above fees, you may also need to pay for additional services, such as:

• English language test fees
• Tuberculosis test fees
• Medical certificate fees
• Police clearance certificate fees

Q.1  I am under the age of 18. Can I apply for a UK Child Student Visa?

Yes, you can apply for a UK Child Student Visa if you are between the age of 4 and 17 years and you have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed education provider.

Q.2  What is the minimum age requirement for a UK Child Student Visa?

The minimum age requirement for a UK Child Student Visa is 4 years.

Q.3  What is the maximum age requirement for a UK Child Student Visa?

The maximum age requirement for a UK Child Student Visa is 17 years.

Q.4  Can I work while I am in the UK on a UK Child Student Visa?

Yes, you can work while you are in the UK on a UK Child Student Visa i.e. part time – for 10 hours week during term time and full-time during vacation. You can be on work placement but not for more than 50% of your course.

Q.5  Can I bring my family members with me to the UK on a UK Child Student Visa?

No, you cannot bring your family members with you to the UK as your dependants while you’re on a UK Child Student Visa. If parent wants to join you then they will need to apply for a “Parent of a Child Student Visa” category visa.

Q.6  Can I renew my UK Child Student Visa?

A: Yes, you can renew your UK Child Student Visa if you are still studying in the UK and you meet the eligibility criteria.

Q.7   What are the advantages of being in the UK on a UK Child Student Visa?

• You will be able to study at a world-class independent primary or secondary schools
• You will have the opportunity to experience a new culture and meet students from all over the world.
• You will be able to develop your skills and knowledge in your chosen field
• Allows part-time work opportunity i.e. 10hrs per week during term time and full-time during vacation
• Join a work placement as part of your course (but not for more than 50% of your course).

 Q.8  How long can my child stay in the UK on a Child Student Visa?

Your child’s stay duration depends on their age and the length of their course. Typically, they can stay for the course duration plus an additional four months.

Q.9  Is there a specific financial requirement for this visa category?

Yes, you must demonstrate that you have enough money to support your child during their stay in the UK.

Q.10  Is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) refundable?

If your child’s visa application is withdrawn, refused, or rejected, you may be eligible for an IHS refund.

Q.11  Can my child apply for settlement (ILR) after a certain period on this visa?

Nope, you’re not eligible or allowed to apply for ‘Settlement’ visa from Child Student Visa category.

Q.12  What are the key documents do I need to apply for a Child Student Visa?

You’ll generally need a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your institution, proof of funds, a valid passport, and additional documents depending on your circumstances.

Q.13  Under the ‘Child Student Visa’ category, what ‘you can or allowed to’ and what ‘you can’t or not allowed to’ do?

As a Child Student Visa holder in the UK, you can:

• Study at an independent school.
• Work part-time during term for up to 10 hours per week, or full-time during vacations, or
• Join a work placement as part of your course (but not for more than 50% of your course).

However, you cannot:

• Study at an academy or a local authority-funded school (also known as a maintained school) or further or higher education institution.
• Receive public funds (benefits).
• Take a full-time permanent job or be self-employed.
• Work as a professional sportsperson (for example a sports coach) or entertainer.
• Apply for settlement.
• Bring family members (‘dependants’) with you – if a parent wants to accompany you, they will need to apply for a Parent of a Child Student visa.