A1.2 Student Visa Extension¶
How to Extend Your Student Visa in the UK
Official link: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/extend-your-visa
Key Reminders
You must create a UKVI account online and use the "UK Immigration: ID Check" app to scan your documents.
You do not need a TB test if:
Ø You are extending your Student Visa and have not left the UK for more than 6 months.
Ø You are a diplomat posted to the UK.
Ø You are a returning UK resident who has been abroad for ≤2 years.
Ø You are arriving under a Ukraine support scheme.
Ø You are a child under 11 (usually exempt from chest X-rays).
Ø You are pregnant (may defer the test or use protective shielding for X-rays).
You must hold a valid Student Visa and apply before it expires.
Your new course must start within 28 days of your current visa’s expiry.
You must be inside the UK and must not travel abroad during the application process.
BRP cards were phased out on 1 January 2025. eVisas now replace BRPs. If you still hold a valid BRP, update to an eVisa before it expires.
ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) certificate required for sensitive subjects (e.g., engineering, biochemistry). Apply early (processing: ≥20 working days). Each ATAS is course/university-specific. Check requirements: https://www.academic-technology-approval.service.gov.uk/
Apply within 6 months of receiving your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).
Your new course must be higher or equivalent to your current level (e.g., Master’s after Bachelor’s). Exceptions include:
Ø Retaking exams/repeating modules.
Ø Your original institution lost its sponsorship licence.
Ø Serving as a student union sabbatical officer.
Ø Completing a PhD or medical/dental degree.
Dependants (partner/children) may apply simultaneously.
Fees (as of September 2025):
Ø Application: £524
Ø Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Additional
Required Documents
Valid passport/travel document.
Smartphone (iOS/Android) with the "UK Immigration: ID Check" app installed.
CAS reference number from your new course.
Original + translated documents used for CAS (e.g., diplomas, transcripts, language certificates).
Financial evidence (if applicable):
Ø Exemptions:
u You have lived in the UK with a valid visa for ≥12 months before applying.
u You are a student union sabbatical officer.
Ø Otherwise:
u Inside London: £1,534/month (up to 9 months).
u Outside London: £1,023/month (up to 9 months).
Ø Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days, ending ≤31 days before application.
Ø Parental funds require:
u Birth certificate/notarised proof of relationship.
u Parental consent letter.
u Certified translations for non-English documents.
If under 18:
Ø Parental consent for visa application, living arrangements, and travel plans.
Ø Birth certificate showing parents’ names.
Application Process
Apply up to 3 months before your course starts.
Online steps:
Ø Visit: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/extend-your-visa → Click "Start now".
Ø Create/log in to your UKVI account.
Ø Complete sections:
u Identity and contact details
u Application preparation
u Payment and submission
u Evidence upload
Two verification methods:
Ø Use the app to scan your ID (preferred).
Ø Attend a visa centre for biometrics (if required).
Processing time:
Ø Standard: Up to 8 weeks (may be faster).
Ø Priority service available for extra fee.
Post-application:
Ø UKVI may request additional evidence or an interview.
Ø Withdrawals only refunded if processed before UKVI starts reviewing.
Approval:
Ø You will receive an eVisa (digital immigration status).
Important Notes
Ensure all documents are translated by certified providers.
Do not travel outside the UK while your application is pending.
Contact UKVI directly to correct application errors (withdrawals require reapplication).