Tier 4 (Student Visa)
Home to Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College - the UK offers world-class education with excellent post-study work opportunities through the 2-year Graduate Route.
150+
Universities
20 Hrs
Work/Week
2 Years
Graduate Route
3-4 Weeks
Processing
2026 UK Student Visa Updates
- Graduate Route remains at 2 years (3 years for PhD)
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £776/year for students
- Financial requirements: £1,334/month for London, £1,023/month outside London
- CAS validity: 6 months from issue date
- New digital visa system replacing physical vignette
Step-by-Step Application Process
Choose Course
Research UK universities and apply via UCAS (UG) or direct (PG)
Receive CAS
Get Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from university
Prepare Documents
Financial proof, English test, TB certificate, transcripts
Apply Online
Complete application via UKVI online portal
Pay Fees
Visa fee (£490) + Immigration Health Surcharge (£776/year)
Biometrics
Submit fingerprints and photo at VFS center
Get Decision
Usually within 3 weeks. Collect passport with visa.
Top Universities for Nepali Students
University of Cambridge
Cambridge
Tuition: GBP 25,000 - 65,000/year
University of Oxford
Oxford
Tuition: GBP 28,000 - 50,000/year
Imperial College London
London
Tuition: GBP 35,000 - 50,000/year
UCL
London
Tuition: GBP 25,000 - 45,000/year
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland
Tuition: GBP 22,000 - 40,000/year
University of Manchester
Manchester
Tuition: GBP 20,000 - 35,000/year
Popular Courses for Nepali Students
Business & Finance
MBAs, MSc Finance, Accounting. Strong career prospects in London financial hub.
Computer Science & AI
Machine learning, cybersecurity, software engineering. Tech sector growth.
Medicine & Healthcare
MBBS, Nursing, Pharmacy. NHS opportunities after graduation.
Law (LLM)
1-year LLM programs. Qualify for UK bar with additional training.
Engineering
MEng, MSc programs. 1-year masters save time and money.
Creative Arts & Design
Fashion, film, design at world-renowned institutions.
Dependents in the UK
Student visa holders can bring dependents under certain conditions. Spouse gets full work rights.
| Dependent Type | Eligibility | Work Rights |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse/Partner | Postgraduate courses 9+ months | Full work rights |
| Children under 18 | If both parents in UK or sole custody | Cannot work |
| Parents | Not usually allowed | N/A |
Key Updates for 2025-2026
1-Year Masters: UK offers shorter program duration saving time and money.
Graduate Route: 2-year post-study work visa, no sponsorship needed.
IHS Payment: £776/year paid upfront for NHS access.
Fast Processing: Usually 3 weeks for standard applications.
Part-time Work: 20 hours/week during term, full-time in holidays.
Eligibility Requirements
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from licensed sponsor
- English proficiency: IELTS UKVI 6.0+ overall (5.5+ each band)
- Financial proof: 9 months living costs held for 28+ days
- London: £1,334/month, Outside London: £1,023/month
- Valid passport for entire course duration
- TB test certificate (Nepal is a listed country)
- Criminal record certificate if required
Working While Studying
| Work Type | Hours Allowed | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Term Time | 20 hrs/week | During term time. Cannot exceed limit. |
| Holidays | Full-time | Unlimited during official university holidays. |
| Graduate Route | Full-time | 2 years (3 for PhD). Any job, any level, no sponsorship. |
| Skilled Worker (after) | Full-time | Need employer sponsorship. Leads to ILR after 5 years. |
Complete Costs Breakdown
Application Fees
Living Costs (Annual)
Tuition Fees (Per Year)
Scholarships for Nepali Students
Chevening Scholarship
Full funding
UK government scholarship for future leaders. Covers tuition, living costs, flights.
Commonwealth Scholarship
Full funding
For Commonwealth country citizens. Masters and PhD programs.
GREAT Scholarships
GBP 10,000
Joint UK government and British Council scholarships at participating universities.
University-specific Awards
Varies
Most UK universities offer international student scholarships based on merit.
United Kingdom Study Intakes
Autumn Intake
Application Deadline
January - June
Classes Start
September/October
Spring Intake
Application Deadline
September - November
Classes Start
January/February
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CAS?
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies is an electronic reference number from your university. It contains details about your course and sponsor. Valid for 6 months.
What is the Graduate Route?
A 2-year post-study work visa (3 years for PhD). You can work any job at any level without needing employer sponsorship. Apply before your student visa expires.
How much money do I need to show?
You need to show funds for tuition + 9 months living costs. London: £1,334/month, Outside: £1,023/month. Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days.
Can I work during studies?
Yes, 20 hours/week during term time and full-time during official holidays. Your visa will specify if you can work.
How long to get PR?
After Graduate Route, switch to Skilled Worker visa. After 5 years on qualifying visa, apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR - UK equivalent of PR).
Ready to Study in United Kingdom?
Get expert guidance on university selection, application process, and visa filing. Free counseling for Nepali students.