Changing schools after getting the UK study visa

Considering switching schools within the United Kingdom? There are certain implications on your UK study visa that you need to understand before leaping directionless.

You are all set to sail – badging an impressive score on IELTS, a UK student permit, also called a ‘student visa’, in your hand, bags packed, goodbyes waved, and then you receive the acceptance letter from your dream university. You sit by your bed wondering what to do, and more, how to do, about it. Can such huge changes be made at the last minute? If you wish to apply to a new school, should you go for it? Or should you keep holding on to your safety net? Is the time to decide over? Well, it is not over till somebody says ‘I do’!

Finalising a university to indulge yourself for years in, abroad or not, is a huge decision. You can change schools before the start of and during your course. Your visa, however, must match the criteria of the new university. Here are some steps you need to follow to let go of your safety net, safely.

Before starting the college

The Tier-4 visa allows international students to live, study and work in the UK for up to 5 years. One may work up to 20 hours a week during the term and full-time off the term period. It also facilitates the students to bring an immediate family with them during the period of their program. If you are currently the holder of a Tier-4 visa and wish to switch schools within the UK, you first need to request your new school to share the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). With the CAS or an i20 form, you can reapply for your visa by following the standard procedure.

If you haven’t applied to the school yet, the clock is ticking!

After Beginning the Course

The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is highly important for international applicants. Perhaps as much as the Aadhar Card to an Indian citizen, you need it for almost everything! If you wish to switch schools mid-course, you’ll require a CAS from the new university. Some courses and universities may not allow you to start where you left off. They will, in that case, insist you put down your application as a fresh candidate. Under regular circumstances, the academic progression rules bound you to apply for a new visa from anywhere but India, at the end of the academic year.

Having considered all implications, first-year students seeking transfers are classified as ‘false candidates’ and are considered the same as first-time applicants. Apply with a ‘personal statement’ explaining the reasons for this change. As a second-year student, your personal statement must also include information on the modules you have studied so far and why you are fit for the new university, as differing after a year of studying is unlikely to be approved.

After Completing the Course

Considering the visa restrictions for the new course match with the one you have completed, you might not need to apply for a new UK study visa. It primarily depends on the expiration date of your student permit. If your Tier 4 visa expires in 28 days or less from when your new course begins, simply request to extend your permit. With more than 28 days left, you will need to return to India and apply for a new visa. Again, hold the CAS shared by your new school close to your heart; you’re going to need it. If you have enough days on your visa to complete the new course, you are gold!

The information mentioned is subject to change when updated on the immigration regulations for International students in the UK. Please connect to our visa team on 011 079 6000 6000 or +91 9624 000 201 to be up to date with the process.