It’s no secret that one of the easiest ways to relocate to the UK is through the study route. While that might be convenient for many people, for others, it may not be the case. This is people most people either find the process a little confusing and have no idea how to go about it, or maybe they think that it’s quite expensive to use the study route to relocate to the UK.
Whether you are having a hard time figuring out the process, or maybe you feel it’s quite expensive, stick around because in the guide I will lay out;
- Why the Study Route is a Smart Way to Relocate to the UK
- The cheapest universities that you apply for
- Eligibility Requirements for UK Student Visa
- Step-by-Step Guide to Relocate to the UK via the Study Route
- How to continue staying in the UK After You Graduate
So, if these seem like something you would be interested in learning all about they ensure to read this article to the end and do leave a question in the comment section if you have any. I will be more than willing to answer them when I do see them. Let’s get to it.
Why the Study Route is a Smart Way to Relocate to the UK
There are so many reasons why relocating to the UK through the study route is the best. Some of which include;
- It is one of the easiest visas to get in the UK
- You can apply for a graduate visa after you have completed your studies, allowing you to work for up to 2 years
- You have access to work work-class education system
- Their degree can significantly boost your employability and earning potential
- The UK offers a vibrant cultural experience
- As a student, you are allowed to work and earn while you’re studying.
Cheap universities that you can apply to in the UK
Finding affordable schools in the UK that can facilitate your relocation can be hard sometimes, this is because most schools in the UK offer very high tuition fees. Education is really not cheap in the UK, which is why we have created a detailed list of affordable schools you can apply for. Keep in mind that these fees are general and may vary depending on the program you are applying for.
1. York St John University
Tuition fee: £7,300
York St John has some of the cheapest MBAs for international students in the UK. They also offer affordable master’s degree programs. York is a beautiful and historic city to study in.
2. University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)
Tuition fee: £7,000–£9,000 per year
This university is a network of small campuses across the Scottish Highlands. They offer various study options, including online learning. They also offer scholarships and bursaries.
3. Leeds Beckett University
Tuition fee: £7,750 per year.
The Leeds offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. They provide scholarships up to £3,000, and they emphasize work-related learning.
4. Teesside University
Tuition fees: £10,000 per year.
Located in Middlesbrough, Teesside University proves to be one of the most affordable schools in the UK. They offer a variety of programs for international students, including post and undergraduate degrees.
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Eligibility Requirements for a UK Student Visa
Before you relocate to the UK, keep in mind that the UK takes student visas very seriously. So, you must have the right document and qualification, so that you don’t run into problems during your application. Here are a few documents that will qualify you for a UK student visa;
Acceptance Letter from your school or college:
During application for a visa, you must have applied and been accepted into a course at a university or college that is officially recognized by the UK government. Once you’ve been admitted, the school will then offer you a letter to confirm your acceptance for studies. This letter comes with a reference number, which you can then attach to your visa application.
Proof of Funds
One thing that will make or break your visa application is your proof of funds. The UK government wants to know that you will be able to take care of yourself when you come there. So you will show that you have the right amount that will do that. You should have enough to cover your first-year tuition. Now, depending on the school and your agreement, this could be spread out over some time. Also, you need to have up to 9months of living expenses.
Academic Qualifications
You need to provide proof that you qualify for the course you are applying for. Keep in mind that different documents will be requested for different levels of education. If you are an undergraduate, your documents will differ from tat of a postgraduate.
English Language Proficiency
You must prove that you can speak English fluently. For that, some of you need to pass an English test, especially if you are from a non-English-speaking country. Some of the tests that will be required include;
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge English qualifications
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Step-by-Step Guide to Relocate to the UK via the Study Route
Step 1: Research and Choose a Course and University
I have already provided you with a list of affordable universities that will easily grant you admission, helping you relocate to the UK. Your task is to choose what you would like to study and initiate your admission process. The UK offers thousands of courses across hundreds of universities.
Step 2: Apply for Admission
Once you’ve picked out your course, the next step is to start submitting your applications. You will typically need to submit a personal statement, transcript, certificate, a reference letter, and proof of English test if needed.
Step 3: Secure Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies
Once your application is successful and you’ve been offered admission, the university will issue you confirmation of acceptance for studies. This document will come with your unique reference number and details of the course you applied for. Without this document, it will be impossible for you to apply for a student visa.
Step 4: Prepare Your Financial Documents
You will need to prove that you have enough to cover your tuition and living expenses during your studies, so you will be required to provide a recent bank statement to show you have the money. In the case where some else is covering your expenses, you still have to show proof, either in the form of a scholarship letter. Always ensure that the account is in your name or that of your legal sponsor.
Step 5: Apply for your UK student visa
Once you have all the documents in place, the next step is to complete your application online. Start by filling out the visa form on their official website, then proceed to pay the visa fee and immigration health surcharge. Book and attend your biometrics appointment in your country, and finally upload all your documents to the visa center.
What Happens After You Graduate?
After you have completed your degree, which helped you relocate to the UK, you can apply for the graduate route visa. This visa allows you to stay in the UK and work. You get to work in the UK for 2 years and 3 years if you are a PhD holder.
Alternatively, you can find a licensed UK employer that will sponsor you for a skilled worker visa. This is because the graduate route visa is a temporary visa that is valid for just 2 years. The skilled worker visa, on the other hand, is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.
If, after 5 years, you wish to renew, you can easily apply for the indefinite leave to remain, which is equivalent to permanent residency. This will allow you to live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions.
Once you hold the indefinite leave to remain for at least one year, you can apply for British citizenship if you meet all the requirements.
