Enter Your Course Start Date
Your Preparation Timeline
Standard Timeline Reference
Here's a general timeline for UK Student Visa preparation:
Earliest Application Window Opens
You can apply for your visa up to 6 months before your course starts. Start gathering documents.
Deposit Funds for POF Critical
Put money in your bank account now. It needs to sit for 28 consecutive days, plus you need buffer time.
TB Test & Receive CAS Important
Get your TB test done (valid for 6 months). Your university should issue your CAS around this time.
Apply Online & Pay Fees Optimal
This is the optimal time to submit your visa application. Your 28-day POF period should be complete.
Biometrics Appointment
Attend your VFS appointment for fingerprints and photo. Book early during peak season.
Wait for Decision
Standard processing is 3 weeks (15 working days). Check email regularly for any additional document requests.
Receive Decision & Book Flights
Once approved, link your eVisa, collect passport, and book travel. You can arrive up to 1 month before course starts.
Earliest UK Arrival
You can enter the UK up to 1 month before your course starts (or 1 week if course is under 6 months).
Peak Season Warning
July-September is peak application season. Processing times may be longer and VFS appointments harder to book. Apply earlier if your course starts in September/October.
Last updated: July 2026