Overview
The UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) allows Nepali students to study at UK universities or colleges for courses longer than 6 months. You apply online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal and attend a biometric appointment at a VFS Global centre in Kathmandu.
Eligibility
- Unconditional offer: You must have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UKVI-licensed sponsor (UK university/college).
- English proficiency: IELTS UKVI / PTE Academic UKVI / other approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).
- Proof of funds: Cover tuition + living costs for the first year.
- Genuine student intention: UKVI assesses whether you genuinely intend to study.
- Maintenance funds: Must be in your account for 28 consecutive days before applying.
Step-by-Step Process
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Apply to and receive an unconditional offer from a UK university |
| 2 | Pay the deposit and receive your CAS number |
| 3 | Book and sit IELTS UKVI or PTE Academic UKVI |
| 4 | Prepare financial documents (28-day bank statement rule) |
| 5 | Apply online at gov.uk/student-visa |
| 6 | Book and attend biometrics appointment at VFS Global Kathmandu |
| 7 | Receive a decision (usually 3 weeks from biometrics) |
| 8 | Travel to the UK with your vignette/visa |
English Language Requirements
You must take a Secure English Language Test (SELT); not all IELTS or PTE versions qualify for the UK Student visa.
| Test | Version Required | Minimum Score (Undergraduate) |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | Academic UKVI or IELTS UKVI | 5.5 overall, no component below 5.5 |
| PTE Academic | PTE Academic UKVI | 59 overall (equivalent to IELTS 6.0) |
Note: IELTS Academic taken at IDP or British Council counts as UKVI if taken at an approved SELT centre. Confirm with your test centre before booking.
Proof of Funds
You must show funds to cover:
- Course fees for year 1 (or remaining balance if you've already paid)
- Living costs: £1,023 per month for courses outside London; £1,334 per month in London, for up to 9 months (maximum £9,207 or £12,006)
Funds must have been in your (or your sponsor's) bank account for 28 consecutive days before the date of your application.
Documents Required
- Valid passport
- CAS number from the university
- IELTS UKVI or PTE UKVI certificate
- Bank statements covering 28 consecutive days
- Parental/sponsor letter and their bank statements (if funded by parents)
- Academic transcripts
- OSHC equivalent / travel insurance (optional but recommended)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test result from an approved UK clinic in Nepal (required for some nationalities; check current rules)
Biometrics in Nepal
Nepali students attend their biometrics appointment at VFS Global Kathmandu (Naxal). Book this appointment online after submitting your visa application. Bring your passport and appointment confirmation. Processing after biometrics is typically 3 weeks but can take up to 6–8 weeks during peak season (June–September).
Common Refusal Reasons
- Funds not held in account for full 28-day period
- IELTS/PTE version used was not UKVI-approved
- Course inconsistent with prior qualifications or career plan
- Weak personal statement / study plan
- Previous UK visa refusals not declared