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Application Process

Step-by-step guide from application to approval

Timeline Overview

6 mo
Before course
Earliest you can apply
3-4 mo
Before course
Optimal application time
3 weeks
Processing
Standard processing
1 mo
Before course
Earliest UK arrival
1

Prepare Your Documents

Before you start the online application, gather everything you need.

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • CAS from your university
  • TB test certificate from approved clinic
  • Bank statements showing 28 days of funds
  • Academic certificates and transcripts
  • English test results (if required)

View complete document list →

2

Apply Online

Complete your application on the official UK government website.

  • Go to gov.uk visa application
  • Create an account or sign in
  • Select "Student visa"
  • Enter your personal details
  • Enter your CAS reference number
  • Answer questions about your circumstances
  • You can save and return later
3

Pay Fees

Pay the visa application fee and healthcare surcharge online.

  • Visa fee: £524
  • Healthcare surcharge: £776/year
  • Pay by debit/credit card
  • You'll get a reference number (GWF or UAN) - save this!

Calculate your total costs →

4

Upload Documents

Upload supporting documents through your application portal.

  • Passport bio page (all pages if requested)
  • TB test certificate
  • Bank statements
  • Academic documents
  • Any other supporting evidence

Tip: It doesn't matter which column you upload documents in - the case officer can see everything.

5

Book Biometrics Appointment

Schedule your appointment at a visa application center (VFS).

  • Book through your application portal
  • Choose a VFS center near you
  • Lagos VI, Lagos Ikeja, or Abuja
  • Book early during peak season (July-September)
  • Consider premium appointment if urgent
6

Attend Biometrics

Go to the VFS center on your appointment date.

  • Arrive 15-30 minutes early
  • Bring your passport (original)
  • Bring appointment confirmation
  • Have fingerprints taken
  • Have photo taken
  • Your passport will be retained during processing

Important: Your application date is when you submitted online, NOT your biometrics date. This matters for the 28-day POF calculation.

7

Wait for Decision

Processing typically takes 3 weeks (15 working days).

  • Check your email regularly (including spam)
  • You may receive NSF (additional documents) request
  • Respond to any requests promptly
  • UKVI may contact your employer or bank quietly
  • "Unable to decide in standard time" email is NOT a refusal

See real processing times →

8

Receive Decision

You'll get an email when a decision is made.

  • If approved: You'll get eVisa access
  • Log into your UKVI account
  • Look for "Link your eVisa" option
  • Generate your share code
  • Collect passport from VFS

Secret check: If you see "Link your eVisa" tab in your UKVI account, your visa is approved - even before the email arrives!

9

Prepare for Travel

Once approved, prepare for your journey to the UK.

  • Book flights (you can arrive up to 1 month before course starts)
  • Arrange accommodation
  • Notify your university of arrival date
  • Prepare documents for airport (CAS, accommodation proof, POF)
  • Get travel money (GBP or travel card)

After Arriving in UK

First Month Checklist

  • Collect BRP if applicable (or use eVisa)
  • Register with a GP (doctor) - free with NHS
  • Apply for National Insurance number
  • Open UK bank account
  • Register on electoral roll (good for address proof)
  • Get provisional driving licence (useful ID)
Track Your Progress