Study in the UK

With universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College and UCL, the UK is one of the world's leading study destinations. For courses longer than 6 months you need a Student visa, and after graduating you can work without a sponsor on the Graduate visa. Apply by 31 December 2026 and it lasts 2 years; from 2027 it becomes 18 months.

Requirements and costs

Example: a master's student in London must hold, for 28 days, the first year's tuition plus at least 9 months of living costs (about £13,761).

Dependants

Since January 2024 only PhD and research-degree students and government-sponsored students can bring a partner and children. Taught master's students cannot.

The Graduate visa

• No sponsor or minimum salary; any work is allowed.
• Applications by 31 December 2026: 2 years; from 1 January 2027: 18 months; PhD: 3 years. The application date decides it, not the graduation date.
• Fee £937 plus the IHS of £1,035 a year.
• The best chance to find work and switch to the Skilled Worker visa.

Frequently asked questions

How much money do I need for a UK Student visa?

£1,529 a month in London and £1,171 outside London, for up to 9 months; from 30 November 2026 these rise to £1,570 and £1,203.

Can a master's student bring their spouse to the UK?

Not on a taught master's; only PhD and research-degree students and government-sponsored students can bring dependants.

How long is the UK Graduate visa?

2 years for applications by 31 December 2026; 18 months from January 2027; 3 years for PhD graduates.

Based on the Immigration Rules and the HC 584 changes; position as of October 2026.