Are you a Pakistani student looking to study in the United Kingdom? If so, you’ll need to obtain a UK student visa from Pakistan to study there.
Applying for a student visa can be confusing, but we’ve created this guide to make it easier. With this in mind, we’ll go over the basic requirements and steps to take to get a UK student visa from Pakistan.
On the positive side, we’ll also provide tips and resources to help you through the process.
Applying for a UK Student Visa from Pakistan
If you’re a Pakistani looking to study in the UK, the first step is to apply for a student visa. Of course, the application process can seem daunting. But with some preparation, it doesn’t have to be. So, here’re the steps you’ll need to take:
- Gather all the necessary documents, such as your passport and evidence of qualifications.
- Check whether you meet the entry requirements in the UK’s Points-Based System.
- Ensure that you meet the English language requirements.
- Prove that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
- Submit your application form and supporting documents to the relevant UK visa center.
- Attend an interview, if required.
- Receive a decision on your application.
Once you have received your decision, it’s important to read the instructions carefully. Having said that, they’ll issue your visa within two weeks. Apart from that, you may be asked to provide more documents or attend another interview.
Moreover, the whole process may take several months from start to finish. So, it’s important to plan ahead and apply early. If you do some preparation and are patient, your application will be successful!
The Points-Based System
Not to mention, the system of UK student visas from Pakistan is based on the Points-Based System (PBS). Therefore, the system awards points for specific criteria such as:
- Age
- Qualifications
- Language abilities
In order to get a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, applicants must obtain 40 points. Particularly, twenty points are awarded if applicants meet the English language requirements. From this, ten points are given for having an approved academic qualification. Lastly, ten points are given for funds to cover the cost of course fees and living expenses in the UK.
In the same way, a child student visa requires 30 points. From this, 20 are awarded if they meet the English language requirements. Moreover, 10 points for showing enough funds. At the same time, you can also get more points for certain other criteria, including the following:
- A letter of acceptance from an accredited institution in the UK
- A letter of support from an academic referee
- A criminal record certificate
- Meeting the maintenance requirements for living costs in the UK
Meeting the English Language Requirements
In addition, you must prove that you have a good command of the English language. This is important when applying for a UK student visa from Pakistan. To show that you’re good at English, you can take a language test or have a degree in English.
In fact, some schools might have specific requirements. In the first place, you better talk to them. Generally, the most commonly accepted tests are IELTS and TOEFL. They also accept other tests, such as Cambridge English and Trinity College London.
Additionally, you may need to take an interview in English. Here are the key points to remember:
- Take an approved language test (such as IELTS or TOEFL)
- Check with the school you’re applying to for their specific requirements
- Show that you have the necessary language level for the course you are applying to
- Take an interview in English if needed
Maintenance Funds
If you’re applying for a UK student visa from Pakistan, you’ve got money to bear your course fees. These is called maintenance funds.
You must show evidence of the funds, such as bank statements or letters of sponsorship. The required amount will depend on the course length and where you will study.
Your visa application should also include the following:
- Details of accommodation in the UK
- Proof of financial capability to pay fees
- Confirmation of any dependents who will be traveling with you
Applying for a Tier 4 (General) Student Visa
Complete the online application form. Upload the required documents and submit them. Pay the visa fee. Lastly, attend a visa appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre.
Collect your visa from the visa application center once approved. Here are the steps you need to follow to get a Tier 4 Student Visa from Pakistan:
- Ensure that you have all the documents required for the visa application
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents to the website
- Submit your application
- Pay the visa fee
- Attend a visa appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre
Collect your visa from the visa application center once approved. When attending your visa appointment, make sure to bring the following:
- Passport
- Visa application form
- Supporting documents
- Payment receipt
They’ll ask many questions about your course and the place you’re staying in an interview. Moreover, they might also want to know how much money you have for living expenses. Good luck!
Applying for a Short-Term Study Visa
A Short Term Study Visa allows staying in the UK for up to 6 months. To be eligible, you must show that you have adequate funds and meet the required language level. Once approved, this visa is valid for up to 6 months and cannot be extended.
Applying for this visa is fairly straightforward. In the first place, gather the documents you need to submit with your application, such as:
- A valid passport
- Proof of funds
- Confirmation of acceptance for studies, etc.
First, submit your application online. Secondly, make sure to provide accurate information. Lastly, wait for a response from the authorities. You may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional information. You will be issued a Short-Term Study Visa if your application is successful.
Applying for a Child Student Visa
Pakistani nationals must apply for a Child Student Visa if they are under 18 and wish to study in the UK.
Therefore, applicants must also provide their:
- Biometric information
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Two passport-sized photographs
Generally, the visa can be applied for online. The supporting documents should be sent to the UK Visas and Immigration department. Getting a UK student visa from Pakistan will take some paperwork, but it should be pretty simple. Above all, be sure to keep a record of your application for future reference.
Below is a table outlining the documents you need to provide when applying for a Child Student Visa:
Conclusion – Getting a UK student visa from Pakistan
Moving can be hard if you don’t know the English language requirements. So, getting a UK student visa from Pakistan may be complex. In the meantime, get enough money for maintenance or apply for the right visa.
You can successfully apply for a UK student visa with this knowledge and guidance. So, don’t let the process intimidate you. For the most part, start by learning more about the different types of visas available. If you need help with anything, you can call the British High Commission in Pakistan. Ultimately, it’ll take some work on your part to make sure that they have all the information they need.
As a result, one of the best ways to get an education in the UK is to apply for a student visa. In that case, you should do some research before you go so you know what to expect!
