Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals: Steps for applying for a Student visa outside the UK
If you are not a national of a country in the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you will need to attend an in-person appointment, in addition to completing the visa application online.
Step 1: Gather your documents
You will need to provide your passport and other documents when applying for your visa.
Step 2: Complete and pay for your visa application online
After gathering your documents, complete your Student visa application online and pay for it. You can also choose to pay to get a faster decision on your application.
Step 3: Book an appointment at a visa application centre and upload your documents
You will need to arrange an in-person appointment at a visa application centre.
Step 4: Attend your appointment
You will have your photo taken and fingerprints scanned at your appointment.
Step 5: Wait for a decision
It usually takes 3 weeks from the date of your biometric appointment to receive a decision on your visa application, but it may take longer. You will not be able to request a faster decision after applying.
Step 6: Receive your decision
The next steps you take after getting your visa approved, or what to do if your visa has been refused.