Top 5 Tips When Applying For a Student Visa
Posted by admin | General | Posted on January 12th, 2012
If you are thinking about studying in the UK and you are from outside of the EU, then you most likely will need to apply for a tier 4 student visa. Even though this may sound like an intimidating process, you may find it positively surprising that it isn’t that difficult when you read through this post.
Visa Rules
It is imperative to completely understand the visa rules and how the application process functions. The UKBA website describes this in detail. In general, you have to get 40 points in your point’s assessment when you want to qualify for the visa. You can obtain these 40 points for having a valid confirmation of acceptance for your course and for having evidence that you have got enough financial resources to cover your course and living costs. It is therefore recommended to scan or print a copy of your bank statement which clearly shows that there is enough money. Make sure that these documents are verifiable as well.
Completing the form
It is essential that you complete all the questions as honest, accurate and clearly as possible. The new application form can now also be completed online which should make it easier for you. If you are in doubt, just ring the UKBA office for more details on how to answer certain questions.
English language skills
As part of the visa requirements, you must be able to demonstrate and have proof that you speak the English language. You are not expected to speak the language fluently, but moderately. There are many English test providers that you could contact which serve as evidence once you would have obtained your results. This test usually consists out of reading, speaking, writing and listening tests.
The most well-known institutions that offer English tests are Pearson PTE English test, IELTS and TOEFL. Though they all offer the same product, they differ in terms of the service they offer. The most significant difference which may come in handy when applying for a visa is that you will receive your test scores in less than a week with Pearson Pte English test. Not only will you receive your scores sooner, but this will also speed up the visa application process.
All English test providers have similar approaches when it is about testing your English abilities. You must complete an oral exam, a writing test, a reading test and a listening test. The English test providers are all widely recognized by universities and colleges.
Time
Time and planning is very important so make sure to apply at least 12 weeks prior to when your course is due to start because you should not leave a visa application as a last minute thing. Many students do this which means that the visa application process may take longer because many students apply at the same time. Avoid this by making sure that you have got all of your documents organised and send these along with your passport in advance.
If you are rejected..
And you are sure that your application was fine and you have fulfilled all the requirements then you can reapply for the visa. No visa system is perfect!