Article Overview
Thousands of Pakistani students start courses in the UK every year. The Student visa process is well established, but it has strict rules on funds and documents. Planning the steps in order, and starting early, makes the difference between a smooth application and a stressful one.
Step 1: Get an unconditional offer and your CAS
Once you accept an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor, the university issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). The CAS is an electronic reference number with details of your course, fees, any payments made and the documents the university used to assess you. Many universities ask for a deposit and a credibility interview before issuing the CAS. You can apply for your visa up to six months before your course starts.
Step 2: Show maintenance funds
You must show that you can pay your remaining course fees for the first year and your living costs. For applications made from 30 November 2026, living costs are £1,570 per month for courses in London and £1,203 per month outside London, for up to nine months. Funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, and the closing balance must be no more than 31 days old when you apply.
Funds can be in your own account or a parent's account, with a letter of consent and proof of relationship such as a birth certificate or FRC. Some banks in Pakistan are not accepted for UK visa purposes, so check that your bank is on the accepted list.
Step 3: Prove your English
Your university will tell you which English evidence it accepts. For courses below degree level you usually need a Secure English Language Test (SELT). For degree-level courses, the university can assess your English itself, often using IELTS for UKVI or other approved tests, or your previous education.
Step 4: Get a TB test certificate
Students from Pakistan coming for more than six months need a tuberculosis test certificate from a Home Office approved clinic in Pakistan.
Step 5: Prepare your documents
- Valid passport.
- CAS reference number.
- Bank statements or a bank letter showing the required funds for 28 days.
- Parental consent letter and birth certificate or FRC, if using a parent's funds.
- Academic certificates and transcripts listed on your CAS.
- English language evidence.
- TB test certificate.
- ATAS certificate if your course is in a sensitive subject area.
Step 6: Apply online and pay
Complete the application on GOV.UK, pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £776 per year for students. Check the current fees on GOV.UK before paying.
Step 7: Biometrics and decision
Book an appointment at a VFS Global centre in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi or Mirpur. Decisions usually take about three weeks, and priority services may be available. Once approved, you receive an entry vignette and an eVisa.
Can I bring my family?
Most taught master's students can no longer bring dependants. Dependants are generally allowed only for postgraduate research courses, such as PhDs, and some government-sponsored students.
Work rights and after graduation
Degree-level students can usually work up to 20 hours a week during term time. After graduating, eligible students can apply for the Graduate route to stay and work; the length of this route is being reduced for new applicants, so check the rules that will apply when you graduate.
Realistic timeline
- 9 to 12 months before: research courses and take your English test.
- 6 to 9 months before: apply to universities and receive offers.
- 3 to 4 months before: pay the deposit, arrange funds and get your CAS.
- 2 to 3 months before: TB test, visa application and biometrics.
Common reasons for refusal
- Funds held for less than 28 days or dropping below the required amount.
- Statements from banks that are not accepted.
- Missing documents that were listed on the CAS.
- Inconsistent answers about the course and future plans in the credibility interview.
How ZANS Consultants can help
We help you choose universities, check your funds and documents, and prepare your visa file. Learn more about our UK Student Visa service, compare destinations in our guide to choosing a study abroad country, or book a consultation.
General information only: Student visa rules, funds and fees change. Check the current GOV.UK guidance before you apply. The Home Office makes the final decision on every application.
