United Kingdom Student Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders
Fee Breakdown
Key Requirements
- ✓ Unconditional offer letter from a UKVI-licensed student sponsor (university or college)
- ✓ Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) reference number from the institution
- ✓ Proof of English language proficiency such as IELTS Academic with a minimum score as required by the institution
- ✓ Sufficient financial funds to cover tuition fees and living costs for at least the first 9 months
- ✓ Academic qualifications matching the course requirements
- ✓ Valid Pakistani passport
- ✓ ATAS clearance certificate if studying certain sensitive subjects
- ✓ Parental or guardian consent if under 18 years of age
- ✓ Proof of accommodation arrangements in the UK
Documents Required
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Receive your unconditional offer from a UKVI-licensed sponsor and obtain your CAS number.
Step 2: Complete your TB test at an approved clinic in Pakistan and obtain the certificate.
Step 3: Apply online at gov.uk, complete the Student Visa application form, and pay the GBP 490 visa fee.
Step 4: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of GBP 776 per year of study as part of the online application.
Step 5: Book a biometric appointment at VFS Global in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad.
Step 6: Gather and submit all required documents including financial statements, CAS details, and TB test certificate.
Step 7: Attend your VFS appointment to submit biometrics and documents.
Step 8: Track your application online. Decisions are typically made within 3 to 4 weeks.
Step 9: Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from your UK university upon arrival.
⚠️ Important Notes
Pakistani students are among the largest international student groups in the UK. A TB test is mandatory for stays over 6 months. The Immigration Health Surcharge must be paid upfront and adds significantly to the total cost. Students should apply no earlier than 6 months before their course start date. Genuine Student assessments are increasingly strict and applicants must demonstrate clear academic intent and financial readiness.
Common Rejection Reasons
- ✗ Insufficient financial funds or funds not held for the required 28-day period
- ✗ CAS number expired or incorrect details
- ✗ Failure to meet English language requirements
- ✗ Unconvincing genuine student intent
- ✗ Incomplete academic qualifications for the chosen course
- ✗ TB test not completed or certificate not submitted
- ✗ Previous immigration violations or overstays
- ✗ ATAS clearance not obtained for sensitive subjects
Frequently Asked Questions
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) gives you access to the UK National Health Service (NHS) during your studies. For students, it is GBP 776 per year of study and must be paid as part of your online visa application in addition to the visa fee.
You must show that you have enough funds to pay the first year of tuition fees (if not already paid) plus GBP 1,334 per month for living costs in London or GBP 1,023 per month outside London, for up to 9 months.
Yes. If you are studying at degree level or above at a university, you are generally permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacation periods.
Pakistan is on the list of countries requiring a tuberculosis test for UK visa applicants staying longer than 6 months. You must visit an approved clinic in Pakistan for the test before submitting your visa application.
Dependants (spouse or children) may be eligible to accompany you if you are a postgraduate student at a university with a track record of compliance. Undergraduate students and those on shorter courses generally cannot bring dependants.
Ready to Apply?
Apply through the official portal. Always use official government/embassy websites.
Apply for United Kingdom Student Visa →