How to extend your student VISA in the UK?
International Students

If you are currently studying in the UK as an international student and your current student visa is about to expire, do not panic. It is possible to extend your VISA. Here is a simple step by step guide to help you through the process.

Can I extend MY Student VISA in the UK?

Yes! You can extend your visa on the following conditions:

• You are already in the UK on a student (or tier 4) visa.
• You have been accepted onto a new course and issued a new Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
•  You meet the eligibility criteria set by the home office.

To view the full requirements, please visit the UK Government website. 

What documents do I need?

To apply for your visa extension, you will need:

• A confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) from your university.
•  A valid passport.
•  Financial evidence showing you can support yourself.
•  Academic qualifications.
•  Proof of English language proficiency.

Make sure everything is up to date and in English, or accompanied by a certified translation.

How to extend student VISA in the UK – Step by step

Apply online through UKVI before your current VISA expires.

• Pay the application fee (usually £490) and the immigration health surcharge.
•  Book your biometric appointment and attend on time
• Await a decision. This usually takes up to 8 weeks.

You are able to stay in the UK while your application is being processed, as long as you applied before your visa expiry.

What about the Graduate VISA?

If you are finishing your current course, you may be eligible to apply for the Graduate VISA instead of extending your Student visa.

The Graduate VISA allows international students to stay and work in the UK after completing a UK bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD.

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree: up to 2 years.

• PhD or doctoral degree: up to 3 years.

You must apply from inside the UK while your Student visa is still valid. The Graduate VISA cannot be extended, but it can allow you to switch to another visa route later, such as the Skilled Worker visa.

What happens if my application is refused?

You will receive a letter explaining why your visa was not extended. You may be able to:

• Request an administrative review.
• Submit a new application with corrected information.

Get advice from your university’s international office or UKCISA, which specialises in visa support for international students.

Need a comfortable place to stay?

While you are sorting your visa, it is important to think about where you are going to live. Explore Unilife luxury student accommodation in Southampton, Winchester and Guildford. We provide summer and short term accommodation designed for international students.

Need help or have questions?

If you are unsure about your application or need support settling into life in the UK, our Unilife team is available to help.

Email: Yourspace@unilife.co.uk
Call: +44(0)7446 271361

We help many international students feel at home, and we would love to welcome you too.