The UK’s Child Student Visa lets kids from anywhere study at top UK schools. This guide explains who can apply, how to apply, and what you need to pay.
Understanding the Child Student Visa
The student visa is for kids who aren’t from the UK or Ireland. It lets them study in the UK, where they can get a great education and experience different cultures.
Who Can Apply for the UK Child Student Visa?
Children aged between 4 and 17 years old can apply for the UK Child Student Visa, but there are specific rules to follow.
Age Requirements
Children from 4 to 17 years old are eligible for the UK Child Student Visa, but they must meet strict criteria.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To get the UK Child Student Visa, applicants must meet several requirements:
Children must be real students with a confirmed place in a UK fee-paying school.
Applications must be submitted on time.
The school must issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.
Parents must agree in writing for their child to study in the UK.
Applicants must not have broken immigration rules in the UK.
Proof of enough money to cover fees and living costs.
Children must show they have the required English skills.
They might need to show evidence of their qualifications.
Show evidence that the child will go back home after finishing the course is necessary.
Points Requirement
To qualify for the Child Student Visa, a child must earn points based on study and financial criteria.
Study Points (50 Points): Children need to fulfill study-related conditions, such as having a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, joining an approved course at an eligible independent school, and being aged between 4 and 17. Parental consent is necessary too.
Financial Points (20 Points): Children must meet financial standards, proving they can sustain themselves throughout their studies.
Financial Requirements
Child students need to show they have enough money to support themselves in the UK, depending on their living situation.
Residential Independent School Boarding: Enough funds for course and boarding fees for one academic year.
Living with a Private Foster Carer or Close Relative: Funds for one academic year; if the carer is British or has settled status, they need £570 per month (up to nine months).
Living with Parent or Legal Guardian: Enough to cover course fees for one year; if no other children are under their care, an extra £1,560 per month (up to nine months) is needed. If other children are under their care, £625 per month per child is required.
Aged 16 or 17 and Living Independently: Enough for school fees for one year; the amount varies based on whether they’re studying in London or elsewhere.
If using a student loan, government grant, or scholarship, they must have had the necessary funds for 28 consecutive days.
How to Get a Child Student Visa for the UK
Getting a visa for your child to study in the UK requires the following simple steps:
Choose a School: Find a suitable school for your child.
Get an Offer: The school should offer your child a place without any conditions.
Get a Confirmation: Ask the school for a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Find a Visa Center: Locate the closest visa application center.
Check Health: Make sure your child meets health requirements, like getting a TB test if needed.
Collect Documents: Gather all necessary documents, like passports, CAS, health records, financial proof, consent forms, and fee receipts.
Fill the Form: Complete the visa application form accurately.
Pay Fees: Pay the required fees online.
Book Appointment: Schedule a biometrics appointment if needed.
Attend Interview: If necessary, attend a visa interview.
Get Permit: Apply for a biometric residence permit if required.
Wait: Once your application is submitted, wait for the decision.
Parent of a Child Student Visa
Parents of child students might qualify for a specific visa type. Here are the requirements:
Child’s Age: Your child should be between four and eleven years old.
School Attendance: Your child must attend an independent school in the UK.
Sole Accompaniment: You are the only parent accompanying your child in the UK.
Residence: Your main home is in your home country.
Departure Plans: You have clear plans to leave the UK when your visa ends.
This visa allows you to stay in the UK until your child’s visa ends or until they turn 12, whichever comes first. Extensions might be possible if you meet the conditions.
Required Documents
When applying for the Child Student Visa, you need to provide various documents:
Have a valid passport or Travel Document:
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the school.
Health Certifications If needed.
Provide Financial evidence like bank statements showing funds for fees and living costs.
Present parental consent or guardian confirmation.
Proof of Payments for tuition and accommodation.
Additional documents might be necessary based on your situation. Having a complete set of documents is crucial to show your eligibility.
Extending the Visa
The Child Student Visa’s duration depends on the child’s course length and age. If a child aged 16 or 17 has a course longer than three years, they must extend their visa before it ends. For international students aged 18 or older, they need to switch to the Student Visa to keep studying in the UK.
In most cases, the duration spent on a Student Visa does not contribute towards eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
The UK’s Child Student Visa gives kids worldwide a chance to study. This guide tells you all about who can get it, what you need, and how to apply. Make sure you prepare well, follow the rules, and have the right documents. Go for your educational dreams in the UK and enjoy all the great experiences it offers.