You may need to apply for a visa to study English in the UK. This page will help you understand if you need a visa and what you need to do. If you need help, the English UK website contains a lot of information, and you can contact them for advice.
Less than 6 months of study: No visa required
More than 6 months of study: Visa required
Some other nationalities do not need a visa to study for up to six months. Others have a ‘visa waiver’ agreement with the UK.
The UK Government website has a tool which allows you to see if you need a visa or not. You can find it at this link.
If you are staying for less than six months and require a visa, most people can apply for a Standard Visitor visa. Remember that people from many countries do not need a visa; please see above.
Visitors can study as much as they like on this visa. It is possible to take different courses with different providers.
Application cost: £95
When to apply: up to three months in advance
Finance: When applying, you will be asked to prove that you have enough money to pay your course fees, accommodation, and general living costs.
If you are under 18, there are some differences. Click here for more information.
Click here to begin your application for a Standard Visitor visa.
If you want to stay in the UK for more than six months, but fewer than 11 months, most people need to apply for a Short-Term Study Visa. This visa is more specific and has more restrictions:
Minimum age: 16
Visa length: 11 months maximum
Confirmation: You must have a confirmation letter from the school before you can apply. You cannot study with any other institution other than the one named on the application form.
Finance: When applying, you will be asked to prove that you have enough money to pay your course fees, accommodation, and general living costs. You will not be able to work in the UK
Application cost: £186, plus £470 fee for the immigration health surcharge which gives access to national health services in the UK
When to apply: up to three months in advance
Click here to begin your application for a Short-Term Study visa