UK Student Visa from Pakistan: Complete Guide 2026

Last checked: September 2026. UK student visa rules change regularly, so always confirm the latest details on GOV.UK before you apply.

The UK is one of the most popular study destinations for Pakistani students, thanks to its world-ranked universities and one-year master’s programmes. To study a course longer than six months, you need a UK Student visa. This guide explains the full process for Pakistani applicants in 2026, including costs, required documents, the bank balance rules, and recent changes to post-study work.

Who Needs a UK Student Visa?

You need a Student visa if you are 16 or older and want to study a course in the UK at a licensed student sponsor (most universities and colleges). You must have:

• An unconditional offer and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university
• Enough money to pay your course fees and living costs
• The required level of English

Costs in 2026

Cost	Amount
Student visa application fee (from outside the UK)	£558
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	£776 per year of your visa
Priority service (optional)	£500 extra
Super Priority service (optional, where available)	£1,000 extra

Your visa is usually longer than your course, so you often pay IHS for more than your course length. For example, a one-year master’s usually requires around 1.5 years of IHS. The IHS gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.

How Much Money Do You Need to Show?

You must show your remaining first-year tuition fees (as shown on your CAS) plus living costs for up to 9 months:

Study location	Per month	Maximum (9 months)
London	£1,529	£13,761
Outside London	£1,171	£10,539

From 30 November 2026, these amounts increase to £1,570 per month in London and £1,203 per month outside London.

The 28-day rule: the money must stay in your account (or your parent’s account) for at least 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before you apply. For a full explanation, read our guide to bank statement requirements for UK, Canada and Australia visas.

English Language Requirement

For degree-level courses, you usually need English at CEFR level B2. Many universities accept IELTS Academic or other approved tests, and some assess your English themselves, for example based on your previous education. Check your university’s requirements before you book a test. For courses below degree level, you usually need a Secure English Language Test (SELT), such as IELTS for UKVI.

TB Test for Pakistani Applicants

Pakistani applicants coming to the UK for more than six months must get a tuberculosis (TB) test from a UK Home Office approved clinic in Pakistan. Book this early, as your certificate must be included with your application.

Required Documents

• Valid passport
• CAS reference number from your university
• Financial documents meeting the 28-day rule
• If using a parent’s funds: FRC or birth certificate, and a consent letter from your parent
• TB test certificate
• Academic documents listed on your CAS (degrees, transcripts)
• English test results, if required
• ATAS certificate, only for certain science and technology subjects (your university will tell you)
• Certified English translations of any documents not in English

How to Apply: Step by Step

1. Get your offer and CAS from your university. You may need to pay a tuition deposit first.
2. Prepare your funds and make sure they meet the 28-day rule.
3. Book and complete your TB test.
4. Apply online on GOV.UK, pay the visa fee and the IHS.
5. Book your biometrics appointment at a VFS Global centre in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi or Mirpur, and submit your documents.
6. Wait for the decision. For applications from outside the UK, this usually takes about 3 weeks.

You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts. Apply early, especially for the September intake, when centres are busiest.

Credibility Interview

Some applicants are invited to a short credibility interview. The officer may ask why you chose this course and university, how it connects to your previous studies, how you will fund your studies, and your plans after graduation. Answer honestly and in your own words. Know your course details well.

Working While Studying

• Degree-level students can usually work up to 20 hours per week during term time
• Full-time work is usually allowed during official university holidays
• You cannot be self-employed or work as a professional sportsperson

Part-time work can help with expenses, but you should not rely on it to meet your living costs, since the visa already requires you to show these funds.

Can You Bring Your Family?

Since January 2024, only students on postgraduate research courses, such as a PhD or research-based master’s, and certain government-sponsored students can bring dependants. Most taught master’s students cannot bring their spouse or children.

After Graduation: The Graduate Route

After completing an eligible degree, you can apply for the Graduate visa to stay and work in the UK without a sponsor. The length is changing:

• Applications before 1 January 2027: 2 years for bachelor’s and master’s graduates
• Applications on or after 1 January 2027: 18 months for bachelor’s and master’s graduates
• PhD graduates: 3 years (unchanged)

If you start a one-year master’s in 2026, you will most likely apply for the Graduate visa after 1 January 2027, so plan for 18 months.

Common Reasons for Refusal

• Funds not held for the full 28 days, or statements dated outside the allowed period
• Parent’s funds used without the correct relationship documents or consent letter
• Poor performance in the credibility interview
• Missing TB certificate or other required documents
• Unexplained study gaps or a course that does not connect to your background

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a UK student visa without IELTS?

For degree-level courses, some universities accept other evidence of English, such as a medium of instruction letter or their own test. However, this depends on the university, so confirm with them first.

How long does the UK student visa take from Pakistan?

Usually about 3 weeks after your biometrics appointment. Priority and super priority services are available for an extra fee at some centres.

Is there an age limit or study gap limit?

There is no fixed age limit or fixed gap limit in the visa rules. However, gaps should be explained, and universities may have their own policies.

Related Guides

• Bank Statement Requirements for UK, Canada and Australia Visas
• UK Priority and Super Priority Visa Services

Have a Question?

This guide is for general information only. For your own case, always check the official government website or consult a licensed adviser. If you notice any outdated information, please let us know.

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Dream Visa Guide is not affiliated with the UK Government. Visa decisions are made solely by UK Visas and Immigration.