How long to expect from application to decision
15 working days target
Most applications are decided within this timeframe
5 working days target
Subject to availability - not always offered
Next working day
Limited availability - book early
Processing time is counted from your biometrics appointment, not your online submission date. The clock starts when you attend VFS and submit your passport.
The Home Office publishes these decision targets for Student visa applications made from outside the UK (1 week = 5 working days):
| Decided within | Share of applications |
|---|---|
| 3 weeks | 90% |
| 6 weeks | 98% |
| 12 weeks | 100% |
Most decisions land within 3 weeks, but a small share take up to 12 weeks - leave a buffer before your course start date. Note: applying to switch inside the UK is slower, currently around 8 weeks.
July to September is peak season for student visas. Processing times can extend beyond the standard 15 working days. Apply early and consider priority service if your course starts soon.
If your course starts soon or you have travel booked, priority is worth the peace of mind. If you have 2+ months before your course, standard processing is usually sufficient.
If you receive an email saying UKVI cannot decide within standard processing times, don't panic. This is NOT a refusal - it just means they need more time. Continue waiting.
You can check your application status through:
Log into your UKVI account. If you see "Link your eVisa" or "View your eVisa" option appear, your visa has been approved - sometimes before the official email arrives!
Last updated: June 2026