UK Implements New Student Visa Rules

Significant changes to the UK student visa system have come into effect.To qualify for entry to study in the UK under the new system, students will be required to score 40 points. 30 points will be scored from having an unconditional offer of study from a licensed UK education provider while the remaining 10 will come from verifiable proof of funds to cover tuition and living costs.

UK Student Visa Reforms at a Glance

In March 2011, following a 3 month consultation on the reform of the student route, the UK government announced a package of reforms to Tier 4 of the points based system. These changes are being introduced in stages and concern sponsor accreditation, student entry requirements, entitlements and post-study arrangements. Two tranches of changes have already been introduced – in April and on 4 July - and further changes will be introduced in April 2012.