What is a Student Visa?
Best Countries To Study
Intakes for a Student Visa
| Country | Main Intakes |
|---|---|
| USA | Fall (August/September), Spring (January), Summer (May/June) |
| Canada | Fall (September), Winter (January), Summer (May) |
| UK | Autumn (September/October), Spring (January), Summer (April/May) |
| Australia | Semester 1 (February), Semester 2 (July) |
| Europe | Varies by country, most common intakes are Fall (September/October) and Spring (January/February) |
Top Universities for Studying Abroad
Here’s a table summarizing the top universities for studying abroad :
| Region | University | Specialization |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Harvard University | Business, Law, Medicine |
| Stanford University | Engineering, Business, Computer Science | |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Technology, Engineering, Computer Science | |
| University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) | Public Policy, Sciences, Engineering | |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Pure Sciences, Engineering | |
| Canada | University of Toronto | Arts, Business, Research Innovation |
| McGill University | Medical Studies, Business, Engineering | |
| University of British Columbia (UBC) | Environmental Sciences, Arts, Engineering | |
| University of Alberta | Energy Research, Agriculture | |
| McMaster University | Medical and Health Sciences | |
| UK | University of Oxford | Humanities, Law, Sciences |
| University of Cambridge | Sciences, Engineering, Law | |
| Imperial College London | Engineering, Medicine, Business | |
| London School of Economics (LSE) | Economics, Law, Political Science | |
| University College London (UCL) | Arts, Law, Life Sciences | |
| Australia | University of Melbourne | Law, Arts, Medicine |
| Australian National University (ANU) | International Relations, Politics, Sciences | |
| University of Sydney | Business, Arts, Medical Research | |
| University of Queensland | Biotechnology, Environmental Studies | |
| Monash University | Pharmacy, Education, Business | |
| Europe | ETH Zurich (Switzerland) | Engineering, Technology |
| University of Copenhagen (Denmark) | Health, Sciences | |
| Université PSL (France) | Humanities, Social Sciences, Physics | |
| University of Amsterdam (Netherlands) | Arts, Law, Social Sciences | |
| Technical University of Munich (Germany) | Engineering, Technology, Natural Sciences |
This table provides a concise overview of top universities and their key areas of specialization across different regions.
Eligibility Criteria for a Student Visa
USA
- Acceptance from a SEVP-certified school: You must be accepted by an institution certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Proof of Sufficient Funds: You must demonstrate the ability to cover tuition, living expenses, and other related costs.
- English Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS) if the program is taught in English.
- Non-Immigrant Intent: You must prove that you intend to return to your home country after completing your studies.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your studies.
Canada
- Letter of Acceptance: You must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Financial Proof: Sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
- No Criminal Record: You must provide a police certificate.
- Health Exam: A medical examination may be required depending on the length of stay and your country of residence.
- Intent to Leave: You must prove your intent to leave Canada upon completion of your studies.
UK
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): You must have a CAS from a licensed Tier 4 sponsor (educational institution).
- Financial Evidence: Sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
- English Language Requirement: Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or equivalent) unless you are from an English-speaking country.
- Health Insurance (Immigration Health Surcharge): You must pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application.
- Non-Immigrant Intent: Show evidence of intent to return to your home country after studies.
Australia
- Letter of Enrollment: Must have a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from an Australian institution.
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: You must demonstrate that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes.
- Financial Capability: Sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and travel.
- English Proficiency: Must meet the language requirement (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE).
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): You need health insurance for the duration of your stay.
Europe
- University Acceptance Letter: You must be accepted by a recognized university in the Schengen area or European country.
- Financial Proof: Demonstrate the ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance for the duration of your stay.
- Proof of Accommodation: Documented evidence of where you will be staying during your studies.
- Language Requirement: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (varies by country and institution).
- Non-Immigrant Intent: You must show you intend to leave the country after completing your studies.
Documents Required for a Student Visa
- Acceptance Letter from the university.
- Passport (valid for the duration of the study).
- Proof of Sufficient Funds (bank statements or financial proof for tuition and living expenses).
- Visa Application Form (specific to each country).
- Visa Fee Receipt (proof of payment).
- Health Insurance (required in most countries).
- English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL/IELTS).
- Passport-sized Photos (according to the country’s requirements).
- Medical Certificate (sometimes required).
- Academic Transcripts and diplomas.
How to Apply for a Student Visa?
- Receive Acceptance from a University: Obtain a formal offer from a recognized university.
- Collect Required Documents: Assemble your documents as per the country’s visa requirements.
- Submit Visa Application:
- USA: Apply for the F-1 Visa via the U.S. embassy/consulate.
- Canada: Apply for a Study Permit online or through paper application.
- UK: Apply for a Tier 4 (Student) visa.
- Australia: Apply for a subclass 500 student visa.
- Europe: Application varies by country (Schengen Student Visa or national visa).
- Attend Visa Interview: Required for the USA and sometimes other countries.
- Pay Visa Fees: Payment must be done prior to visa processing.
- Receive Visa Decision: If approved, receive your visa and travel to study.
Costs of a Student Visa
| Country | Visa Cost |
|---|---|
| USA | $160 (F-1 Visa) |
| Canada | CAD $150 |
| UK | £363 (Student Visa) |
| Australia | AUD $630 |
| Europe | €50 – €150 (varies by country and visa type) |
How Long Does it Take to Get a Student Visa?
| Country | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| USA | 3–5 weeks |
| Canada | 4–6 weeks |
| UK | 3 weeks |
| Australia | 4–6 weeks |
| Europe | 3–8 weeks |
Why Choose Schooling Visa
Schoolingvisa Overseas Careers stands out as our consultant , and our track record speaks for itself. We’ve successfully served our customers.
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- Immigration: Your comprehensive solution for all visa and immigration requirements.
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Tailored Services for Your Success:
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- Professional Guidance: From interview training to language courses and crafting impactful resumes and cover letters, we offer comprehensive support.
- Dedicated Case Officer: Enjoy personalized assistance and a singular point of contact throughout the entire process.
- 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.
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Related FAQs
How long is the student visa valid for?
The validity of a student visa depends on the country and the duration of the academic program. Typically, a student visa is valid for the length of the study program, with additional time granted for settling in or preparing to leave after completion. Here are some general guidelines:
- USA: The F-1 student visa is valid for the length of the study program, with an additional 60-day grace period after the completion of studies.
- Canada: The study permit is valid for the duration of the program plus an extra 90 days to prepare for departure or apply for an extension or work permit.
- UK: The Tier 4 (now known as the Student visa) is valid for the course duration plus a few extra months (up to 4 months) depending on the length of the program.
- Australia: The student visa is generally valid for the length of the course plus an additional one to two months, depending on the course duration.
- Europe: Many European countries issue student visas that are valid for the course duration, with some offering additional time to seek employment or extend the stay, such as Germany’s 18-month post-study work visa.
Visa validity may vary based on program type, country-specific regulations, and other factors. Extensions are often possible if the course duration is longer or if post-study opportunities arise.
Can I Work on a Student Visa?
- USA: On-campus work is allowed up to 20 hours per week.
- Canada: 20 hours per week during study and full-time during breaks.
- UK: 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays.
- Australia: 48 hours per fortnight during study sessions.
- Europe: Varies by country; typically around 20 hours per week.
Can I Extend My Student Visa?
- Yes, you can usually extend your student visa if your course is extended or you are pursuing further studies.
Do I Need Health Insurance?
- Yes, health insurance is mandatory in most countries for international students.
What Happens After My Studies?
- Some countries offer a post-study work visa, allowing students to stay and work after graduation, e.g., USA OPT, Canada PGWP, UK Graduate Visa, Australia Temporary Graduate Visa.
Can My Family Join Me?
- Many countries allow family members to join you on a dependent visa, but the conditions vary.