Visas and ImmigrationFeedback
The immigration rules have changed in the UK, and if you are a non-EU national coming to study here, you must apply for a student visa or entry clearance in your home country. The type of visa you can apply for depends on your age, level and length of the course.
Over 18
If you are aged 18 years or over you should apply for the Tier 4 Student (General) visa, in the points-based system, if your course is full time (minimum 15 hours per week).
If the course is for up to six months’ duration, you can also apply for a Student Visitors Visa.
Under 18
If you are under 18, you can apply for the Tier 4 (General or child) Visa and be permitted to study on a Level 2 course until you are 18.
You must have a legal guardian in the UK who would be responsible for your general welfare while you are studying here.
It is most important to read the Tier 4 policy guidance to make sure that you apply for the correct visa. This is available on: ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk or ukvisas.gov.uk
Please note that Leicester College is a highly trusted sponsor, therefore is able to offer courses at Level 3 and above.
We also provide help to extend your Tier 4 General or Child Student Visa in the UK if it is expiring during the course of your study. You would be liable to pay the current visa extension fees of £357 (subject to change) to the UK Border Agency.
Schengen Visa
If you are planning to visit other EEA countries during your studies and are a national of a non-EEA country you need to apply for the Schengen Visa. Under this scheme you only need to apply to one consulate or embassy of member states, but would be able to visit other member countries.
The following EEA countries are taking part in this scheme:
Austria
Belgium
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Italy
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland.
You should apply to the consulate/embassy of the country where you plan to spend most of your time or where you will go first.
To find out more please visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Office fco.gov.uk