Student immigration the basics

Straightforward advice on when you need a visa and when you don't. 

Do I need a visa?

You can use the UK Visas and immigration (UKVI) online tool to help you check if you need a UK visa.

What type of immigration permission do I need?

The type of visa/immigration permission you will require to study will depend on your course and future plans.

Student visa - You can apply for a Student visa to study a range of courses whilst if you are aged 16 or over. Students studying at Reading will have working rights you would like to extend your visa from within the UK.

Short-term student visa - You can apply for this visa if you are going to study an English language course that is between 6 and 11 months in duration. You cannot apply to extend or switch from this visa from within the UK.

Visitor – You can only come to the UK as a visitor to study if your course is less than six months in length or you are studying a course by distance learning. You usually cannot apply to extend or switch from this visa from within the UK.

Other – If you already hold a visa not listed above for the UK, please contact the International Student Advisory Team to check if your current visa permits study.