The time has come to begin your Tier 4 UK student visa application for September 2020 entry. However, the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and prevailing uncertainties due to the restriction of international movement has left many students confused and looking for answers.
Applying for a UK Student Visa can be a daunting task for a first time student having numerous doubts and questions regarding which documents should be submitted, how long is the visa processing time, how to apply, what is the visa application fee, what are the rules for post study work permit and stay back options and more. SI-UK has an expert team of UK visa consultants and visa application officers who can help you with all your queries and submit your UK Visa application without error.
Read below about some of the most common UK Students Visa FAQs during 2020 and arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India to get your UK visa application started today.
FAQs on Tier 4 UK Student Visa and Post Study Visas in 2020
1. Are the UK Visa application centres in India open?
Students in India can start applying for a UK study visa now that UK visa application centres have reopened in many cities including Delhi. The UK Government and the UK visas and Immigrations Office have resumed operations for student visas and applications can be submitted through VFS in India. Find out if you can submit a UK visa application from your city with our experienced visa officers.
2. What is the visa processing time at present?
The average visa processing time taken by UKVI is 15 working days. A student is highly likely to get his/her visa decision in time for travel as long as the application is made in time considering the average processing period.
3. Can I travel to the UK in September 2020?
The UK border is now open for travellers from India provided the guidelines are strictly followed and adequate safety measures are put in place to ensure international students are welcomed in a secure manner for the September 2020 academic session.
4. What will happen after I arrive in the UK?
Owing to the Covid-19 pandemic all travellers to the UK must complete a detailed contact tracing form at the airport before proceeding to the customs. In addition a 14-day self-isolation is required. Students who are travelling to the UK for courses of longer duration exceeding 6 months must also apply for the BRP card within 1 month of arrival. A UK education counsellor at SI-UK can provide you with more details on how UK universities are helping students meet these requirements upon arrival.
5. What happens if I am unable to take a flight to the UK within 1 month of my visa issue?
Usually students have upto 30 days time to enter the UK after the visa is issued. But now this limit is extended to 90 days in order to give more time and flexibility to travel owing to the pandemic.
6. Will I be eligible for the PSW benefits and GIR?
The UK government has assured that all international students reaching the UK before 6th April 2021 and completing some part of their course in the UK shall be eligible to apply for the Graduate Immigration Route and avail the benefits of a two-year post study work visa and stay back options.
7. Do I need a Covid-19 test for applying for a UK student visa?
A mandatory tuberculosis test is required for applying for a UK student visa. However, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic travellers from certain countries are required to self-isolate for a 14-day period upon entering the UK. Journey and contact details will be sought at the airport upon arrival and failing to provide such information may lead to fine and prosecution.
8. What If I can’t travel in advance before the course start date?
Although it is recommended to travel in advance by14-17 days before the course starts, UK universities are offering flexibility to Indian students for late arrival on campus on a case to case basis. Students can start with their online classes until they are able to join campus. Enquire from your SI-UK counsellor to learn more about how late you can arrive on campus after the course starts for your particular course and university.
9. Can the CAS be issued for a later date if I can’t arrive on time for the course start?
CAS, which stands for Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, is an electronic document issued by universities after the acceptance of an unconditional offer. A CAS number has to be provided for applying for a Tier 4 UK visa. UK universities are offering greater flexibility in the issuance of CAS for students arriving late on campus for their courses starting in September 2020. Ask your counsellor for the latest CAS updates in case of your preferred UK university.
10. Do I need to collect the Biometric Residence Permit Card?
Yes all students need to collect their Biometric Residence Permit upon arrival in the UK. Although students must collect the BRP cards within 10 days of arrival under normal circumstances, if they are unable to do so now due to quarantine regulations and covid-19 situation, they will not be penalised.
11. How do I apply for my UK student visa?
In order to apply for a UK student visa you must carefully fill the UK visa application and provide all the necessary supporting documents and financial proof. While the visa application is submitted online, students are required to visit in person the designated visa application centre on the given appointment day for a visa interview.
12. Can my parents travel to the UK with me? Do they have to quarantine?
Yes, parents of students can accompany them to the UK to help them settle down. As per the UK government’s health advisory anyone entering the UK which is not on the list of exempt countries, will need to self-quarantine for a 14-day period.
13. What flights are currently operating between India and the UK?
India has entered into an Air bubble with the UK permitting few airlines to resume operations between the two countries. Students can now book direct flights from major Indian cities to London Heathrow and other airports in the UK. Airlines open for operations include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air India, SpiceJet and Vistara.
For more details: Five Airlines For Indian Students Going to the UK in September 2020
Apply for your visa with SI-UK
SI-UK provides free advice and support for Indian students who wish to apply to UK universities. With a 98% success record, we have placed hundreds of students into UK universities through our exclusive services. Applying with SI-UK’s Student Visa Service can help you secure a study visa in time to start your UK university education and increase your likelihood for success.
