by If you’re applying for a UK Visa, you must have heard several terms that best describe the types of visas available. The United Kingdom has four (4) Tiers of visas: Tier 1, 2, 3, and 4. Each Tier authorizes you to enter the UK for a specific purpose, which varies depending on the Tier. In view of this, we’ll answer the question, what is a Tier 4 Visa? This post will also share insights on obtaining this visa from anywhere in the world.
A Tier 4 Visa refers to the UK Student Visa, allowing international students to start a course or degree education in the United Kingdom. You can apply for the visa if you’re at least 16 years old and have met some other requirements.
These criteria are as follows:
- Must have received an unconditional admission offer for a program/course with a licensed student sponsor. A UK higher educational institution must be the offer letter’s issuer.
- Should be able to write, read, and speak in English
- Must possess enough funds to pay your tuition and sustain yourself with valid evidence
- Must have been permitted by your parents to study in the UK (Only required if you’re aged 16 or 17)
Related: How Many Months Bank Statement Is Needed For A UK Visa?
Is Tier 4 Visa Same as Student Visa?
Yes, a UK Tier 4 is the same as a study visa for international students. But if you’re 16 or 17 years of age with plans to study at a UK-based independent school, you need a Child Student Visa in place of a Tier 4 Visa.
How Long is a UK Tier 4 Visa Valid for?
The validity period of a Tier 4 Visa varies depending on your program or course’s duration. Tier 4 Visa holders can stay in the UK for two years if their academic program is not up to a degree. But if you’re enrolled in a licensed UK university, you can get a UK Student Visa valid up to five years.
What are the Requirements for Tier 4 Visa UK?
To get a UK Tier 4 Visa, you’ll have to provide the following documents to support your application:
- A passport with at least one blank page for your visa
- A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the UK higher education institution
- Evidence of having enough money for your tuition and living expenses
- Valid ATAS certificate (Required based on your nationality and program/course)
- A written consent from your financial sponsor for your student visa application (Required if you received sponsorship for your tuition and living costs in the previous 12 months)
- Evidence of parental or other legal guardian consent (Required if you’re below 18 years old)
- Proof of family ties to your parent or relationship with your guardian (Required if you’re under 18 years of age)
- Tuberculosis test results
Do UK Student Visas Get Denied?
Yes, most applications for UK Student Visas are declined due to applicants filling in untrue information or submitting fake documents to the embassy. If you apply for the visa without making any false claim, your student visa will most likely be approved.
