Student Visa Extension UK: Legal Guide 2025

The UK Student Visa allows international students to study at approved institutions under the sponsorship of a licensed Student Sponsor. However, there are situations where a student may need to extend their visa, such as to complete an existing course, start a new programme, or progress to a higher level of study. Extending a Student Visa requires meeting strict eligibility requirements under the UK’s Immigration Rules, including academic progression (under Appendix Student Rule ST 14.3), financial maintenance, and compliance with sponsorship duties.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to extending a UK Student Visa, covering who is eligible, what documents are required, how to apply, fees involved, common pitfalls to avoid, and compliance obligations for both students and sponsors. It also explores visa options after completing studies, including switching to the Graduate Route or Skilled Worker visa. The guidance is accurate as of 2025 and reflects current UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) policies. Applicants should verify key eligibility requirements, including financial maintenance figures, on the official Gov.uk website before applying, as these thresholds are subject to change.

Whether you are looking to extend your stay to finish your course, pursue further studies, or prepare for post-study work opportunities, this guide will help you navigate the Student Visa extension process with legal accuracy and practical steps.

 

Section A: Understanding Student Visa Extensions

 

Extending your Student Visa is an essential process for international students who need additional time to complete their studies, start a new course, or progress to a higher level of academic qualification. The UK Immigration Rules set out strict criteria for extensions, and understanding these rules is critical to ensuring your application is successful. In this section, we explain what a Student Visa extension is, why students commonly need to extend, and the key timing requirements you must meet when applying.

1. What is a Student Visa Extension?

A Student Visa extension is the process by which an international student currently in the UK applies to the Home Office to extend their permission to stay under the Student route. This allows students to lawfully remain in the UK to complete their current course, begin a new course of study, or meet academic progression requirements. An extension is subject to eligibility criteria, including having a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor and meeting financial and academic conditions under Appendix Student of the Immigration Rules.

2. Common Reasons for Extending a UK Student Visa

There are several common scenarios where a student may need to extend their visa, including:

• Needing more time to complete an existing course due to resits, course delays, or mitigating circumstances.
• Progressing to a new academic level, such as moving from a Bachelor’s degree to a Master’s programme.
• Starting a new course with the same or a different education provider.
• Adding a study abroad year or a work placement that was not originally covered by the existing visa.
• Interruptions to study caused by illness, bereavement, or other compassionate grounds.

 

3. Key Deadlines and Time Limits for Extension Applications

Timing is critical when applying for a Student Visa extension. The application must be submitted before your current visa expires to maintain lawful status. If you submit your application before your current visa expires, your lawful stay is automatically protected under Section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971 until a decision is made. The Home Office allows applications to be made up to six months before the course start date shown on the new CAS. Importantly, you must not apply more than 28 days after your current visa expires, as this will lead to an automatic refusal and loss of lawful residence. Ensuring correct timing avoids gaps in your immigration status and protects your right to continue studying in the UK.

 

Summary of Section A

Understanding the basics of a Student Visa extension is essential for planning your application. Whether extending due to academic progression, course delays, or new opportunities, it is important to meet the Home Office’s strict timing rules and ensure you are applying for the right reasons. The next section will cover the specific eligibility requirements you must satisfy to qualify for a Student Visa extension.

 

Section B: Eligibility Criteria

 

Before applying to extend your Student Visa, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements set out under the UK Immigration Rules. The Home Office applies strict criteria to ensure that only genuine students who are academically progressing, financially stable, and compliant with visa conditions are granted extensions. These rules are detailed in Appendix Student of the Immigration Rules, particularly under Rule ST 14.3 for academic progression. Failing to meet these requirements will almost certainly result in a refusal, so careful preparation is vital.

1. Valid CAS and Course Requirements

 

A valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issued by a licensed Student Sponsor is mandatory for every extension application. The CAS must correspond to a course that qualifies under the extension rules. Typically, this involves progressing to a higher level of study, such as moving from a Bachelor’s degree to a Master’s degree. In some cases, you may extend for a course at the same level, but your sponsor must provide a valid academic justification within the CAS statement explaining how the new course relates to your academic goals and represents genuine academic progression.

2. Academic Progression Rules

 

The Home Office requires students to demonstrate academic progression as a condition for visa extensions. This means you must be moving forward in your studies or, in exceptional cases, extending to complete an existing course due to resits, mitigating circumstances, or changes in course content. Your Student Sponsor is responsible for confirming your progression in the CAS. It is important that the CAS statement provides a clear academic rationale if the course is at the same level or if you are repeating modules. The Home Office will assess this in line with Appendix Student Rule ST 14.3.

3. Financial Maintenance Requirement

 

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your outstanding tuition fees and living costs for the duration of your extended stay in the UK. The current maintenance thresholds are £1,334 per month for up to 9 months if studying in London, and £1,023 per month for up to 9 months if studying outside London. These figures are accurate as of 2025 but are subject to change, so you should always check the latest requirements on the UK Government website. Financial evidence must show that the required funds have been held in your bank account for a continuous period of at least 28 days before the date of your application.

In addition to personal bank statements, financial maintenance can also be met through official financial sponsorships, such as scholarships or government funding. If you are receiving such funding, an official letter confirming the sponsorship, amount covered, and duration must be provided.

4. English Language Requirement

 

If you are applying to extend your visa for a new course, you must meet the English language proficiency level required for that course. This is generally demonstrated through a Secure English Language Test (SELT) approved by UKVI, such as IELTS for UKVI. However, if you have previously met the English language requirement in a successful Student Visa application and your new course is at a higher level or is being undertaken at the same sponsor, you may not be required to submit fresh evidence. Your CAS should confirm how you meet the English language requirement, either through prior assessment or through a new SELT result if needed.

5. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

 

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) must be paid as part of the application. The current IHS rate is £776 per year of leave granted. This fee gives you access to NHS services during your stay in the UK. The exact amount payable will depend on the length of your new visa grant as stated in your CAS. You must ensure that the IHS payment is completed in full when submitting your application, as failure to pay the correct amount will render your application invalid and subject to rejection.

 

Summary of Section B

Securing a Student Visa extension is only possible if you meet the Home Office’s strict eligibility rules under Appendix Student. These include holding a valid CAS for a qualifying course, demonstrating genuine academic progression, meeting financial maintenance requirements through acceptable evidence, satisfying English language standards, and paying the Immigration Health Surcharge. Being fully prepared on these points will significantly enhance your chances of a successful application. In the next section, we will guide you through the essential documents you must prepare for your extension submission.

 

Section C: Required Documents for Extension

 

Submitting a complete and accurate set of documents is crucial for a successful Student Visa extension application. The Home Office expects applicants to provide clear evidence demonstrating their eligibility across multiple areas, including academic progression, financial maintenance, identity, and compliance with visa conditions. Failure to provide the correct documents, submitting incomplete information, or not meeting evidential requirements is one of the most common reasons for refusals. In this section, we outline the essential documents you will need to prepare for your application.

1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

 

A valid CAS issued by a licensed Student Sponsor is the foundation of your extension application. This electronic document confirms your course details, sponsor information, fees, and academic progression justification if required. The CAS is valid for six months from the date of issue, and you must ensure that it is valid on the date of your application submission. It is your responsibility to check the CAS statement carefully for accuracy, including course start and end dates, fees paid, and academic progression details under Appendix Student Rule ST 14.3.

2. Proof of Funds and Bank Statements

 

You must provide financial evidence demonstrating you meet the maintenance requirement for tuition fees and living costs. Acceptable financial evidence includes:

• Personal bank statements showing the required funds held for a continuous period of at least 28 days, ending no more than 31 days before the date of application.
• Official letters from a regulated financial institution confirming account balances and duration.
• A student loan letter from an official government or recognised financial sponsor.
• An official financial sponsorship letter if your education is funded by a government body, university, or international scholarship organisation.

 

The documents must meet UKVI specifications regarding format, language, and content. It is essential to ensure the closing balance date and required fund amounts meet the latest Home Office financial maintenance levels, which are subject to change.

3. Academic Certificates and Transcripts

 

Depending on the course and level of study, you may be required to submit academic certificates or transcripts to demonstrate that you meet the academic entry requirements of the new course. If your sponsor has verified your qualifications and recorded this on the CAS, additional documentation may not be necessary. However, retaining copies of your academic certificates, progression letters, and transcripts is recommended in case further evidence is requested by the Home Office.

4. Passport and Current Visa Details

 

You must provide a valid passport, which should be in date and contain a blank page for the visa vignette (if applicable). In addition, you should include copies of your current Student Visa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). If you have previously held other UK visas, it is good practice to include these details to evidence your lawful immigration history.

5. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate (if applicable)

 

If you are a national of a country listed on the Home Office’s official TB testing list and have not been living continuously in the UK for at least six months prior to applying, you will need to submit a valid TB test certificate. The test must be conducted at a Home Office-approved clinic, and the certificate must be valid on the date of your application. If you have been in the UK for six months or more, you will generally be exempt from this requirement.

6. Additional Documents for Dependants (if applicable)

 

If you are applying to extend your visa with dependants (such as a spouse or children), you will need to provide additional documents for them. These include:

• Proof of relationship, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates.
• Financial maintenance evidence demonstrating sufficient funds to support your dependants, which is in addition to your own maintenance requirement.
• Passports and current visa details for each dependant.

 

Each dependant must meet specific eligibility criteria under the Immigration Rules, and their extension applications must be submitted at the same time or before yours if their leave is expiring.

 

Summary of Section C

Ensuring that you provide a complete and accurate set of documents is vital for a successful Student Visa extension. This includes a valid CAS, financial maintenance evidence that meets UKVI specifications, academic records where required, identity documents, and any additional documentation for dependants or special circumstances. Careful preparation of these documents will minimise the risk of delays, refusals, or invalid applications. The next section will guide you through the step-by-step application process, including when and how to submit your extension request.

 

Section D: The Student Visa Extension Application Process

 

Applying for a Student Visa extension involves several stages, from preparing your application online to attending a biometric appointment. It’s essential to follow the correct process to ensure that your application is valid and to avoid common mistakes that could lead to delays or refusals. In this section, we explain the key steps in the extension process, including when to apply, how to complete the application, and what happens after submission.

1. When to Apply: Timing Your Application

 

You must apply for your Student Visa extension before your current visa expires. If you submit your application in time, your lawful stay in the UK will be protected under Section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971, meaning you can remain in the UK legally while the Home Office processes your application. The Home Office allows applications to be submitted up to six months before the start date of your new course, as stated on your CAS. However, applying too early can result in your visa being granted prematurely, affecting its expiry date. Most importantly, applying after your current visa has expired will result in your application being refused and will negatively impact your immigration record.

2. Step-by-Step Online Application Process

 

The extension application must be completed online through the official UK Government website. You will need to create a UKVI account and fill out the Student Visa extension form, providing details of your course, CAS number, financial maintenance, immigration history, and personal circumstances. It’s vital to ensure the information provided matches the details on your CAS and supporting documents. Once completed, you will pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) online. Review your answers thoroughly before submitting, as errors or inconsistencies can delay the decision-making process or result in refusals.

3. Biometric Enrolment & UKVCAS Appointment

 

After submitting your application and paying the required fees, you will need to book a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) appointment to enrol your biometric information, which includes fingerprints and a photograph. Biometric appointments must be attended in person at a designated service point.

Before the appointment, you will be required to upload your supporting documents to the UKVCAS portal. Digital uploading of documents is now the default expectation. You should ensure all uploads are clear, legible, and meet Home Office format specifications. In-person document submission is only available at selected centres and may incur additional fees.

4. Application Fees Breakdown

 

The current application fee for a Student Visa extension is £490, payable at the time of online submission. In addition to the application fee, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is currently £776 per year of visa granted. The total IHS amount is based on the duration of your extended stay, as stated on your CAS. Optional services such as priority processing (5 working days) or super priority processing (next working day) may be available at an extra cost, depending on availability at your chosen service point.

5. What to Expect After Submitting Your Application

 

Once your biometrics have been enrolled and your documents submitted, the Home Office will begin processing your application. Standard processing times are up to eight weeks from the date of biometric enrolment. If you have opted for a priority or super priority service, the decision will be expedited.

During this time, you are permitted to remain in the UK under Section 3C leave conditions. You must continue to comply with your current visa restrictions, including working no more than the permitted hours. It is strongly advised that you do not travel outside the UK while your application is pending, as doing so will result in your application being treated as withdrawn.

If successful, you will receive a decision letter by email, followed by the issuance of a new Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), which will confirm your new visa validity and conditions.

 

Summary of Section D

The Student Visa extension process involves careful timing, accurate completion of the online application, submission of biometric data, and provision of supporting documents in line with UKVI requirements. Understanding each step, especially the digital submission processes and timing rules, is crucial to avoid delays, refusals, or invalid applications. In the next section, we will discuss the conditions and restrictions that apply while your extension application is pending, including work rights, travel limitations, and compliance obligations.

 

Section E: Conditions & Restrictions During Extension

 

Once you have submitted your Student Visa extension application, it is important to understand the conditions and restrictions that apply while you await a decision from the Home Office. If your application was submitted before your current visa expired, your immigration status will be protected under Section 3C of the Immigration Act 1971, allowing you to remain in the UK lawfully while your application is pending. However, there are specific rules regarding your ability to work, travel, and comply with other visa conditions during this period. In this section, we explain what you can and cannot do while your extension application is being processed.

1. Can You Work While Awaiting a Decision?

 

If you applied for your extension before your existing visa expired, you are allowed to continue working under the same conditions attached to your previous Student Visa while your application is pending. This means you may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods.

It is important to remember that these work restrictions remain in force until your extension is granted. Even if your studies have been completed and you are awaiting a Graduate Route application, you must continue to observe the 20-hour limit if you are still under a Student Visa. Any breach of permitted working hours will be treated as a violation of visa conditions and can have serious consequences for your application outcome and future immigration status.

2. Travel Restrictions During an In-Country Application

 

You should not travel outside the UK while your Student Visa extension application is under consideration. Leaving the UK will result in your application being treated as withdrawn by the Home Office. This could interrupt your studies and would require you to make a new visa application from outside the UK, which may be subject to different requirements and risks of refusal.

If you have urgent reasons for needing to travel during this period, it is highly advisable to seek professional immigration advice before making any arrangements, as travel during a pending application is generally not permitted.

3. Police Registration Requirements (if applicable)

 

Certain nationalities are required to register with the police as a condition of their visa. If you fall within this category, you must ensure that your police registration is up to date, including reflecting your current UK address. Any changes in your circumstances, such as changes of course, sponsor, or address, must be reported within the timeframe specified in your police registration certificate.

Failure to comply with these reporting obligations is considered a breach of visa conditions and may result in enforcement action or impact the outcome of your extension application. It is advisable to check whether the police registration requirement still applies to your nationality at the time of your application, as the list of applicable countries is subject to change.

 

Summary of Section E

While your Student Visa extension application is pending, you must comply strictly with your visa conditions. This includes adhering to work hour limits, refraining from international travel, and ensuring police registration details are up to date if applicable. Any breaches of these restrictions could jeopardise your application and your future in the UK. In the next section, we will look at the most common mistakes that lead to refusals and explain how you can avoid these pitfalls to strengthen your application.

 

Section F: Common Issues and How to Avoid Refusals

 

Applying for a Student Visa extension requires careful attention to detail, as even minor mistakes or omissions can lead to a refusal. The Home Office applies strict scrutiny to extension applications, and students must ensure that all eligibility requirements are met, and supporting evidence is accurate and compliant with UKVI standards. Understanding the most common reasons for refusals will help you avoid these pitfalls and strengthen your application. In this section, we highlight frequent issues that lead to refusals and explain how to prevent them.

1. Insufficient Funds or Financial Evidence

 

A leading cause of Student Visa extension refusals is failure to meet the financial maintenance requirement. This often happens when applicants do not maintain the required funds in their bank account for the full 28-day period, or when bank statements are submitted in an incorrect format.

Ensure that your bank statements clearly show the required funds held continuously for at least 28 consecutive days, with the final balance date no more than 31 days before the date of your application.

Third-party funding from an official financial sponsor (such as a government body or university scholarship) is acceptable, provided you submit an official sponsorship letter meeting UKVI evidential requirements. Submitting incomplete or unclear financial documents is one of the most common refusal triggers.

2. Academic Progression Mistakes

 

Another frequent issue arises when students fail to demonstrate academic progression in line with Appendix Student Rule ST 14.3. If you are applying to extend for a course at the same level, your sponsor must provide a robust academic justification in the CAS explaining how the new course complements your previous studies or forms part of an approved integrated course structure.

If you are repeating modules or have experienced delays, these reasons must also be explained clearly in the CAS statement. Without a valid academic progression justification, the Home Office is likely to refuse your application.

3. Invalid or Expired CAS

 

Your CAS is valid for six months from the date of issuance. Submitting an application with an expired CAS or using a CAS that contains errors (such as incorrect course details, dates, or fees) will lead to an automatic refusal. It is your responsibility to check the CAS for accuracy and ensure it is valid on the date you submit your application.

Any discrepancies between the CAS and your application form can result in delays, refusals, or even accusations of deception. Therefore, always review the CAS carefully before submission.

4. Timing Errors: Applying Too Late

 

Failing to submit your extension application before your current visa expires will result in your application being refused unless exceptional circumstances apply. Overstaying is treated seriously by the Home Office and will damage your future immigration prospects.

You must ensure your application is submitted before your current visa expiry date to benefit from Section 3C leave, which protects your lawful stay while your new application is pending. Applications submitted even one day late will not benefit from these protections.

5. Right to Administrative Review if Refused

 

If your Student Visa extension is refused, you may have the right to request an administrative review. This process allows you to challenge the refusal if you believe it was due to a caseworker error, such as a failure to consider evidence or misapplication of the Immigration Rules.

It is important to note that an administrative review is not an opportunity to submit new evidence or rectify mistakes made during your application. The review can only address errors made by UKVI in the decision-making process. You must submit your request within 14 calendar days of receiving the refusal decision.

 

Summary of Section F

Common issues such as insufficient financial evidence, academic progression errors, expired CAS, and late submissions are avoidable with careful preparation and attention to detail. Understanding these pitfalls will help you compile a robust and compliant application. If refused, administrative review may offer a route to correct caseworker errors, but it is far preferable to ensure your initial application is fully compliant. In the next section, we will explore the visa options available to students wishing to remain in the UK beyond the expiry of their Student Visa.

 

Section G: Extending Your Stay Beyond the Student Visa

 

As your studies in the UK come to an end, you may wish to remain in the UK for work, further academic study, or other personal reasons. While extending your Student Visa is an option for continuing studies, there are alternative visa routes available if you are transitioning into employment or seeking long-term residence. Understanding these post-study options is crucial for planning your future in the UK and ensuring that you remain compliant with immigration rules. In this section, we outline the main visa pathways students commonly switch to upon completing their studies.

1. Switching to a Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work Route)

 

The Graduate Visa, often referred to as the Post-Study Work Visa, allows international students to remain in the UK for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates) after successfully completing an eligible course. This route enables graduates to work, look for employment, or start a business without the need for sponsorship from a UK employer.

To be eligible, you must have completed a UK degree-level qualification or higher and hold a valid Student Visa at the time of application. Applications must be made from within the UK before your current visa expires.

It is important to note that time spent on a Graduate Visa does not count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, it provides a valuable opportunity to gain work experience in the UK and seek sponsorship under other visa routes, such as the Skilled Worker route.

2. Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa After Studies

 

If you secure a job offer from a UK employer who holds a Skilled Worker sponsor licence, you may be eligible to switch to a Skilled Worker visa. The role must meet the Home Office’s minimum salary threshold and fall within the list of eligible occupations.

As of 22 July 2025, the Skilled Worker salary thresholds are:

• £41,700 (general threshold)
• £33,400 (discounted threshold for new entrants or shortage occupations)
• £25,000 for specific Health & Care roles

 

Switching to a Skilled Worker visa is an attractive option for graduates seeking a pathway to settlement in the UK, as time spent on this visa counts towards ILR. Unlike the Graduate Visa, this route requires employer sponsorship and compliance with sponsorship reporting duties.

3. Other Visa Options After Student Visa Expiry

 

Depending on your personal circumstances and long-term goals, other visa routes may be available, including:

• Start-up or Innovator Founder Visa: For entrepreneurial graduates with a viable and innovative business idea endorsed by an approved UK body.
• Global Talent Visa: For individuals recognised as leaders or potential leaders in fields such as academia, research, arts, or technology.
• Family Visa Routes: For applicants eligible to join a spouse, partner, or family member who holds settled status or British citizenship.

 

Each of these routes has distinct eligibility criteria and evidential requirements. Early preparation and understanding of these pathways are essential to ensure a smooth transition from the Student route.

 

Summary of Section G

While extending your Student Visa allows you to continue your studies, graduates have several other immigration options to consider for remaining in the UK. The Graduate Visa offers post-study work flexibility, while the Skilled Worker route provides a sponsored employment pathway towards settlement. Other routes, such as the Start-up, Global Talent, or Family Visas, may also be suitable depending on individual circumstances. Understanding and planning for these options early is critical to maintaining lawful status and achieving your long-term goals in the UK. In the next section, we will discuss the legal compliance duties shared by students and their sponsors to ensure ongoing adherence to UK immigration rules.

 

Section H: Legal Compliance and Sponsor Duties

 

Both students and their education sponsors have legal obligations under the UK’s Immigration Rules. While the Home Office expects students to comply strictly with their visa conditions, licensed Student Sponsors are responsible for monitoring, recording, and reporting key information to UKVI through the Sponsor Management System (SMS). Failure to comply with these legal responsibilities can result in visa curtailment for students and sponsorship licence revocation for education providers. In this section, we outline the key compliance duties for students and sponsors to ensure lawful stay and adherence to UK immigration policies.

1. Your Responsibilities as a Sponsored Student

 

As a Student Visa holder, you must comply with the specific conditions attached to your visa. These include:

• Studying full-time on the course specified in your CAS, at the sponsor institution listed.
• Attending all scheduled lectures, tutorials, and official contact points as required by your sponsor.
• Keeping your contact details up to date with both your sponsor and the Home Office.
• Working no more than 20 hours per week during term time (unless permitted otherwise) and full-time during official vacations.
• Not accessing public funds (benefits).
• Complying with police registration obligations if applicable.

 

Failure to comply with any of these conditions can lead to visa curtailment, refusal of future applications, and potential removal from the UK.

2. University Sponsorship Compliance & Reporting Duties

 

Licensed Student Sponsors are under a legal duty to monitor their sponsored students and report certain events to the Home Office via the Sponsor Management System (SMS) within 10 working days. These events include:

• Failure of a student to enrol on their course by the expected start date.
• Significant unauthorised absences from classes or contact points.
• Withdrawal from a course, deferrals, or course completions earlier than expected.
• Any known breaches of visa conditions by the student, such as exceeding permitted work hours or accessing public funds.
• Changes in course length, location, or type of study.

 

Sponsors must also maintain accurate records of students’ attendance, progression, academic achievements, and current contact details. Failure to comply with these sponsorship duties can result in suspension or revocation of their sponsor licence, which in turn impacts the immigration status of the affected students.

3. Impact of Withdrawal, Deferrals, or Dropping Out

 

If you withdraw from your course, defer your studies, or are removed from your programme, your sponsor is required to report this to UKVI via the SMS. This will likely result in the Home Office curtailing your visa, giving you a limited period to leave the UK or switch to a different visa route.

If you are considering deferring your studies or withdrawing, it is essential to seek immediate advice on how this may affect your immigration status. In most cases, a new visa application from outside the UK would be required if you wish to resume your studies at a later date. Not informing your sponsor of changes in your study circumstances is considered a breach of your visa conditions.

 

Summary of Section H

Legal compliance is a shared responsibility between international students and their licensed sponsors. Students must adhere to strict visa conditions regarding study, work, and personal conduct, while sponsors are legally obligated to monitor and report relevant information through the Sponsor Management System (SMS). Both parties’ failure to meet these duties can lead to severe immigration consequences. Understanding these responsibilities is critical to maintaining lawful status in the UK and avoiding enforcement actions.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Can I extend my UK Student Visa from within the UK?

 

Yes, you can apply to extend your Student Visa from within the UK, provided you submit your application before your current visa expires and meet the eligibility criteria under Appendix Student of the Immigration Rules.

How early can I apply to extend my Student Visa?

 

You can apply up to six months before the start date of your new course, as listed on your CAS. However, your current visa must still be valid when you apply, and applying too early may impact the visa expiry date issued.

Do I need a new CAS for a Student Visa extension?

 

Yes, a new Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is required for every Student Visa extension application. Your licensed Student Sponsor will issue this after confirming your eligibility for continued study. The CAS must be valid (issued within six months of the application date) and reflect correct course and sponsor details.

How much money do I need to show for my Student Visa extension?

 

You must show you have enough funds to cover any outstanding tuition fees and living costs. The maintenance levels are currently £1,334 per month for up to 9 months if studying in London, and £1,023 per month if studying outside London. These figures are subject to change, so always check the latest requirements on the UKVI website before applying.

Can I work while my Student Visa extension is pending?

 

If you applied before your current visa expired, you may continue to work under the same conditions as your existing Student Visa while your extension application is pending. This typically allows you to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacation periods. You must not exceed these limits while awaiting a decision.

What happens if my Student Visa extension is refused?

 

If your application is refused, you may have the right to request an administrative review if you believe a caseworker error occurred. An administrative review does not allow you to submit new evidence but focuses solely on whether the refusal decision was made in error. You must submit a review request within 14 calendar days of receiving the refusal.

Can I travel outside the UK while my extension is being processed?

 

No, you should not travel outside the UK while your Student Visa extension application is under consideration. Doing so will result in your application being treated as withdrawn, which would affect your right to continue studying in the UK and require you to reapply from overseas.

Do dependants need to apply separately for visa extensions?

 

Yes, each dependant (such as a spouse or children) must submit a separate extension application. Dependants will need to meet their own eligibility criteria, provide supporting documents (including proof of relationship), and satisfy financial maintenance requirements in addition to the main applicant’s.

Can I switch to a Graduate Visa after completing my course?

 

If you have successfully completed an eligible UK degree-level qualification or higher, you may be eligible to apply for a Graduate Visa. This route allows you to stay and work in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates) without requiring employer sponsorship. Time spent on a Graduate Visa does not count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

How long does it take to get a decision on a Student Visa extension?

 

Standard processing times are up to eight weeks from the date of biometric enrolment. Priority (5 working days) and super priority (next working day) services may be available for an additional fee, depending on appointment centre availability.

 

Conclusion

 

Extending your UK Student Visa is a process that requires careful planning, strict adherence to the Home Office’s Immigration Rules, and thorough preparation of documentation. Whether you are completing an existing course, starting a new programme, or progressing to a higher academic level, ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria and timing requirements is critical to a successful application.

Understanding your responsibilities as a sponsored student, including compliance with work restrictions and reporting obligations, is equally important. Any breaches of visa conditions, failure to provide adequate financial evidence, or delays in applying can result in refusals and jeopardise your future immigration options.

For students looking to stay in the UK beyond their studies, alternative visa routes such as the Graduate Visa and Skilled Worker Visa offer clear pathways to employment and, in some cases, settlement. Planning ahead and seeking guidance from your education provider or legal advisers will help you navigate these options effectively.

By following the guidance in this article, you can approach the Student Visa extension process with confidence, ensuring that you remain compliant with UK immigration law and are well-positioned to continue your academic or professional journey in the UK.

 

Glossary of Key Terms

 

Term	Definition
Student Visa Extension	The process of applying to extend your stay in the UK as a Student Visa holder to complete a course or undertake further studies.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)	An electronic document issued by a licensed Student Sponsor confirming details of your course and eligibility for a visa extension.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)	The division of the Home Office responsible for managing visa applications and enforcing immigration laws in the UK.
Academic Progression	The requirement to demonstrate that you are moving to a higher academic level or making acceptable academic progress in your studies.
Financial Maintenance Requirement	The amount of funds you must show to cover tuition fees and living costs during your extended stay in the UK.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A mandatory fee paid by visa applicants to access NHS services while living in the UK.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)	A physical card issued by the Home Office confirming your immigration status and visa conditions.
Graduate Visa	A post-study work visa allowing international graduates to stay and work in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD graduates) without sponsorship.
Skilled Worker Visa	A sponsored work visa allowing individuals with a qualifying job offer to live and work in the UK, potentially leading to settlement.
Section 3C Leave	A provision in the Immigration Act 1971 that protects your lawful status while a visa extension application is pending with the Home Office.
UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services)	The service centre where applicants provide biometric information and upload supporting documents as part of their visa application process.

 

Links & Resources

 

Resource	Link
UK Government Student Visa Guidance	https://www.gov.uk/student-visa
UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI)	https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Information	https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application
Student Sponsor List	https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/register-of-licensed-sponsors-students
UKVCAS (Visa & Citizenship Application Services)	https://www.ukvcas.co.uk/
Police Registration Requirements	https://www.gov.uk/register-with-the-police
Graduate Visa Guidance	https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa
Skilled Worker Visa Information	https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Administrative Review Process	https://www.gov.uk/ask-for-a-visa-administrative-review
UK Immigration Rules: Appendix Student	https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/appendix-student