United Kingdom study visa: documents you usually need
Visa needed
Student visa
Indian citizens need a visa for this trip. UK Visas and Immigration decides. You need a licensed sponsor's offer first.
Documents you usually need
Passport and forms
- Valid passportPlus old passports.
- Online application and biometricsCompleted on GOV.UK, then biometrics at a visa application centre.
Study papers
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)Issued by your university once you accept an offer and meet its conditions.
- Academic documentsThe qualifications you used to get your CAS.
- English language evidenceAn accepted test, or the evidence your university uses.
- ATAS certificateNeeded for some courses in sensitive subjects. Your university will tell you.
Money
- Proof of fundsFirst-year fees plus monthly living costs, set by the Home Office, held for 28 days in a row.
- Immigration Health SurchargePaid when you apply.
Health and safety
- Tuberculosis test certificateNeeded if you live in a listed country, India included, and study for more than 6 months. Get it from an approved clinic.
If you hold a different passport: Many nationalities visit without a visa, and a UK electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is now needed for some. Use the GOV.UK tool to check.
Check the official source
More checklists
Visa decisions are made by the embassy or visa office. We guide your application; we cannot guarantee approval. This list is a summary of what applicants usually need, last reviewed 21 October 2026. Always confirm on the official site.