The United Kingdom offers internationally respected education, a safe environment, and a culturally rich experience for school-age students. Whether you’re a parent planning a future for your child or a student seeking strong academic pathways, the UK schooling system is globally recognized for its quality and structure. This guide covers everything you need to know — from types of schools to visa requirements and more.
What is a UK Child Student Visa?
A UK Child Student Visa allows international students aged 4–17 to study at an independent (private) school in the UK. It replaces the previous Tier 4 (Child) visa and provides legal permission to live and study in the country for the duration of the course.
Note: Children aged 4–17 can only study at fee-paying independent schools with this visa. Public (state-funded) schools do not accept international fee-paying students under this visa route.
UK School Year & Intakes
| Term | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Term | September – December | Main intake |
| Spring Term | January – March/April | Limited intake in some schools |
| Summer Term | April – July | Mid-term start, less common |
Applications are typically submitted 6–12 months in advance.
UK School Education Levels
| Stage | Age Range | Key Years |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Education | 4–11 years | Reception – Year 6 |
| Secondary Education | 11–16 years | Year 7 – Year 11 |
| Sixth Form / College | 16–18 years | Year 12 – Year 13 |
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At age 16, students take GCSEs
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At age 18, students typically take A-Levels, IB, or vocational courses, leading to university pathways.
Types of Schools in the UK
| School Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Independent (Private) Schools | Charge tuition; offer high-quality academics, extracurriculars, and boarding facilities |
| Boarding Schools | Combine living arrangements with academics; ideal for international students |
| Grammar Schools | Selective entry schools focused on academics; mostly local, not open to international students |
| State Schools | Funded by the UK government; not open to international school students on visas |
Note: For visa purposes, only private schools that are licensed sponsors can accept international students.
Popular Regions for International Students
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London – Top private schools, international community, and extensive guardianship services
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Oxford & Cambridge – Home to prestigious schools and academic heritage
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Brighton – Seaside city with a vibrant student community
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Manchester – Affordable living and reputable schools
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Surrey – Close to London with excellent boarding schools
Eligibility & Requirements for a Child Student Visa
To be eligible, the student must:
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Be aged between 4 and 17
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Have an unconditional offer from a UK independent school (licensed sponsor)
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Show proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
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Provide a valid passport and parental consent
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Arrange a UK-based guardian (for under-18s, if not living with a parent)
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
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Choose a School – Must be an independent school with a student visa sponsorship license
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Apply & Get CAS – Receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the school
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Prepare Documents – Passport, financial proof, consent letter, TB test (if required)
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Apply Online – Submit application on the official UK visa portal
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Biometrics & Interview – Attend a visa application center for biometrics and possibly an interview
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Wait for Approval – Usually takes 3–4 weeks
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Travel & Start School – Upon visa approval, book travel and begin your study journey
UK Student Visa Cost and Processing Time
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | Approx. £490 (USD $620) |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £776/year (USD $980) for under 18s |
| Processing Time | 3–4 weeks (standard) |
| Living Cost Requirement | £1,560/month (in London) or £1,334/month (outside London) |
| TB Test (if applicable) | Varies by country (approx. $80–$150) |
Accommodation & Welfare Arrangements
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Boarding School – Supervised on-campus housing with meals, activities, and medical care
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Homestay – Living with a UK family (approved by the school)
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Living with Parent – Allowed if the parent applies for a Parent of a Child Student Visa
Note: All minors under 18 must have suitable care and living arrangements in place.
Rules for Parents or Guardians of Minor Children
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Parents of children under 12 can apply for a Parent of a Child Student Visa
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Must live in the UK with the child and cannot work or study
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Visa duration matches the child’s schooling
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One parent per child is allowed to stay under this visa type
Scholarships and Financial Aid
While full scholarships are rare at school level, some independent schools offer:
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Merit-based or sports scholarships
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Partial tuition discounts
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Sibling discounts
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Needs-based bursaries (limited)
Contact the school directly to inquire about specific opportunities.
Pathway to Higher Education in the UK
Studying at a UK school opens doors to:
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Top UK Universities (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, etc.)
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Foundation Year Programs
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International Baccalaureate (IB) or A-Level pathways
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Smooth transition to higher education with familiarity in academic and cultural systems
Important Visa Conditions and Student Responsibilities
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Must attend a licensed sponsor school full-time
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Cannot attend public-funded (state) schools
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Must maintain 100% attendance
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Must stay in approved accommodation
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Cannot work or claim public funds
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Must have valid medical insurance and guardianship
Final Tips for Parents and Students
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Research schools carefully — academic results, environment, facilities
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Start early — top UK schools have competitive admission timelines
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Use certified education agents for secure application handling
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Stay informed on visa rules, costs, and renewal timelines
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Prepare your child emotionally for independent living and cultural adjustment
Why Choose Schooling Visa?
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- Post-Landing Services: Our support extends beyond visa approval, helping you settle comfortably in your new country with customized post-landing services.
Experience a seamless journey for all your visa needs with Schoolingvisa – from profile evaluation and document preparation to post-visa settlement services. If you have questions about filing the AIPP application, reach out to us immediately. We are here to assist you in every possible way.
Take the first step – start your visa application today!
Related FAQs
Can international students attend public schools in the UK?
Generally, only residents or children of work visa holders can attend state schools. Most international students enroll in private (independent) schools.
What is the minimum age for a Child Student Visa?
4 years old.
Is boarding mandatory for international students?
Not always. Some live with guardians or host families.
Can a parent accompany the child to the UK?
Parents can apply for a Parent of a Child Student Visa if the child is under 12 and studying at an independent school.
When should I apply for a UK school?
6–12 months in advance is ideal, especially for boarding schools.
Disclaimer
This publication is provided for general information only and is not intended to cover all aspects of the topics discussed. The information contained in this publication does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice of this website or its affiliates. Previous results do not guarantee a similar result. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, express or implied that the contents of the publication are accurate, complete or current. Schoolingvisa.com is a service that facilitates a student’s process of acquiring a study visa by being a partner of other visa and immigration service companies. We offer consultancy services on student visas and any other visa, immigration options, but we do not directly provide any visas. We are not part of any government or immigration department. We do not provide any type of professional immigration, regardless of the destination.
Note: The information provided in this article is general, subject to frequent change and does not constitute any legal advice. For any specific study visa and legal advice you can rely on, please contact the consultants/advisors, lawyers and members of our expert team.