Applying for a student visa is one of the most important steps in your study abroad journey. Each country has its own process, requirements, and timelines — and missing a single document could delay or even reject your application.
This guide breaks down the step-by-step process for five of the most popular destinations: UK, Canada, USA, Australia, and New Zealand.
1. United Kingdom – Student Route Visa
Steps:
- Get a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your UK university.
- Prepare required documents:
- Passport
- CAS letter
- Proof of funds (tuition + living costs)
- English language test results (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Apply online on the UK Government Visa Portal.
- Pay the visa fee (£490) + Immigration Health Surcharge (£776/year).
- Book and attend a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre.
- Wait for a decision (typically 3–8 weeks).
2. Canada – Study Permit
Steps:
- Receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Prepare documents:
- Passport
- LOA
- Proof of funds (minimum CAD 20,635/year + tuition)
- Medical exam (if required)
- Apply online via the IRCC portal.
- Pay the visa fee (CAD 150) + biometrics fee (CAD 85).
- Submit biometrics at a Visa Application Centre.
- Wait for processing (8–16 weeks, faster via Student Direct Stream).
3. United States – F-1 Student Visa
Steps:
- Receive Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified school.
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350).
- Complete the DS-160 online application form.
- Pay the visa application fee ($185).
- Schedule and attend your visa interview at a US Embassy/Consulate.
- Provide required documents:
- Passport
- Form I-20
- Proof of funds
- Ties to home country
- Wait for visa approval (often within a few days).
4. Australia – Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Steps:
- Get a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution.
- Prepare documents:
- Passport
- CoE
- Proof of funds (minimum AUD 24,505/year + tuition)
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)
- Apply online via the ImmiAccount portal.
- Pay the visa fee (AUD 710).
- Complete biometrics and health check.
- Wait for processing (1–3 months).
5. New Zealand – Fee-Paying Student Visa
Steps:
- Receive an Offer of Place from a New Zealand institution.
- Prepare documents:
- Passport
- Offer of Place
- Proof of funds (NZD 20,000/year + tuition)
- Medical and chest X-ray certificates (if needed)
- Apply online via the Immigration New Zealand portal.
- Pay the visa fee (NZD 430).
- Submit biometrics if required.
- Wait for processing (4–8 weeks).
Student Visa Requirements
| Country | Proof of Funds Required | Visa Fee (USD) | Average Processing Time | Work Rights During Study |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK | £1,334/month (London) or £1,023/month (outside) + tuition | $620 | 3–8 weeks | 20 hrs/week |
| Canada | CAD 20,635/year + tuition | $175 | 8–16 weeks | 20 hrs/week |
| USA | Tuition + living expenses proof | $185 | 2–8 weeks | 20 hrs/week (on-campus) |
| Australia | AUD 24,505/year + tuition | $470 | 4–12 weeks | 48 hrs/fortnight |
| New Zealand | NZD 20,000/year + tuition | $265 | 4–8 weeks | 20 hrs/week |
Tips for a Successful Student Visa Application
- Apply Early: Some visas take months to process.
- Double-Check Funds: Ensure your bank statements meet minimum requirements.
- Be Honest: Provide genuine information to avoid bans or rejections.
- Prepare for Interviews: Especially for US and UK visas.
- Keep Copies: Always save digital and printed copies of every document.
Securing your student visa is your entry ticket to studying abroad. By preparing early, following each step carefully, and ensuring your documents are complete, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays and start your international education journey smoothly.
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