The United Kingdom, with world-class universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College, is one of the most popular study destinations for international students. Over 700,000 foreign students study in the UK each year, reflecting the high quality of education, post-graduation job opportunities, and dynamic lifestyle. However, entry requires a Student Visa. In this article, as expert migration consultants at ITCiLand, we provide fully up-to-date information as of November 2025 based on official sources from UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) and recent changes. With key changes such as increased financial requirements from November 11, 2025, and eVisa from January 2025, careful planning is essential.
What is the UK Student Visa?
The UK Student Visa (Student Route Visa) replaced Tier 4 and is issued to individuals aged 16 and above who wish to study in higher education programs such as bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD at accredited UK universities. This visa allows residence, study, and part-time work, opening a path to the Graduate Visa. For children under 18 studying at independent schools, the Child Student Visa is suitable.
Key benefits:
- Visa-free travel to Schengen countries (as a tourist).
- Part-time work up to 20 hours per week (full-time during holidays).
- Family accompaniment for PhD or research students (more restricted from January 2025).
Major Changes to the Student Visa in November 2025
The UK government issued a migration statement in October 2025, effective from November 11, 2025:
- Increased financial requirements: Living costs outside London from £1,136 to £1,171 per month (9 months: £10,543) and in London from £1,334 to £1,529 per month (9 months: £13,761). This increase covers inflation.
- Mandatory eVisa: From January 2025, physical BRP expires; create a UKVI account to access digital eVisa.
- Dependants restriction: From January 2025, only PhD or research students can bring family.
- Higher English language level: From 2026, B2 (upper intermediate) required, but B1 sufficient in 2025.
- Future changes: Graduate Visa reduced to 18 months from 2027 (3 years for PhD), but currently 2 years.
Requirements and Eligibility for UK Student Visa in 2025
To be eligible, you must score 70 points in the points-based system (30 for CAS, 10 for language, 10 for finances, 10 for academic conditions, 10 for maintenance). Key requirements:
- Age: Minimum 16 years.
- University acceptance: Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor university.
- English language: Valid test such as IELTS (minimum 5.5 overall, no band below 5.5) or TOEFL. Exemption for English-speaking country citizens.
- Financial: Proof of first-year tuition payment + living costs (9 months) + £776 IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge) per year. For Iranians, 28 consecutive days of sufficient bank balance.
- Other: Clean criminal record, health insurance (via IHS), and ATAS certificate for sensitive STEM subjects (if required).
| Financial Requirement (2025) | Outside London | London |
|---|---|---|
| Per month | £1,171 (from Nov 11) | £1,529 (from Nov 11) |
| 9 months | £10,543 | £13,761 |
Required Documents
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- CAS from university.
- Financial proof (bank statements, loan, or sponsorship).
- English test results.
- Police clearance certificate (from Iran and previous countries).
- ATAS (if required).
- Parental consent form (for 16–17 year olds).
- Passport photos and proof of IHS payment.
All documents must be officially translated into English.
UK Student Visa Application Process in 2025
- Obtain CAS: Secure CAS after university acceptance (up to 6 months before course start).
- Online registration: Complete form on gov.uk, pay £524 visa fee + IHS (£776/year). Possible up to 6 months before course start.
- Biometrics: Visit VFS Global center in Tehran (fingerprinting and photo, £115 fee).
- Processing: 3 weeks (priority: 5 days, £500 extra; super-priority: 1–2 days, £1,000 extra).
- eVisa: From January 2025, create UKVI account and download eVisa. Collect BRP within 10 days of arrival (if before 2025).
- Entry: Enter with visa and notify university.
Total time: 1–3 months. Approval rate for Iranians ~85%, with incomplete documents the most common rejection reason.
Visa Validity and Extension
- Initial: Course duration + 4 months (maximum 5 years for undergraduate, unlimited for postgraduate).
- Extension: In the UK, £524 + proof of continued study and finances. Post-completion, Graduate Visa (2 years, from 2027: 18 months).
Work and Student Life in the UK
- Work: 20 hours/week during term, full-time during holidays. Average wage: £10–15/hour.
- Living costs: £1,000–1,500/month (London more expensive).
- Rights: Access to NHS (via IHS), but additional insurance recommended.
Advantages and Important Tips
- Advantages: Top-tier education, global networking, and career path (Graduate Visa).
- Tips: From 2025, dependants more restricted; apply early to benefit from old rules. For STEM subjects, do not forget ATAS.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Studying in the UK in November 2025 remains a golden opportunity, but with financial and eVisa changes, early planning is key. If you have university acceptance, ITCiLand, with proven success in Iranian student cases, manages everything from course selection to visa. Contact us now for consultation and eligibility assessment.
