Student visa: applying inside or outside the UK
Application location means where the applicant is physically applying. It is different from whether the university is in London or outside London.
Reviewed 11 August 2026 by the KR Services editorial team · Verify current requirements on GOV.UK
Applying from outside the UK
- Apply online after receiving the CAS and no earlier than the permitted period before the course starts.
- The applicant normally proves identity using the instructed digital or visa application centre process.
- The published standard decision time is usually 3 weeks, though individual cases may take longer.
Extending inside the UK
- A Student or former Tier 4 (General) migrant may be able to extend if the course, sponsor, academic progress and timing rules are met.
- Apply before existing permission expires and within the permitted CAS timeframe.
- Do not travel outside the Common Travel Area while the application is pending because the application can be withdrawn.
Switching inside the UK
- A person cannot switch from a visit visa, short-term Student visa, Parent of a Child Student visa, Seasonal Worker visa, Domestic Worker in a Private Household visa or leave outside the rules.
- A valid CAS and an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor are required.
- If the applicant has held valid UK permission for less than 12 months, financial evidence is normally required.
Do not confuse location questions
- Inside or outside UK = where the applicant is when submitting.
- London or outside London = where the course's main study site is, used for the financial requirement.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Check the current GOV.UK rules
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