Applying from inside the UK
Find out more about how to renew or extend your student visa when you're in the UK, and what to do if you're changing course.
If you're in the UK, you can apply to renew your visa at any time before it expires. If your course lasts 12 months or more, your visa should expire four months after your course ends (see below).
We advise that you begin the application process at least three months before your student visa is due to expire.
We also have information on how to apply for, or renew, a visa from outside the UK.
Renewing your visa
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will accept applications for renewal at any time before the visa expiry date if made within the UK. You are advised to begin the application process at least three months before your student visa is due to expire to ensure you have all the necessary supporting documents, if applicable.
Before you can apply to renew your visa you need your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) statement from the University. If you are a continuing student you can request your CAS via your e:Vision account, when there are three months or less until your visa expiry date.
Renew before your visa expires
You must apply to extend your visa before your current visa expires. Sending your application after your current leave has expired will mean that you have overstayed in the UK - the consequences of this are serious.
If the total length of your course is for 12 months or more, your Student visa should expire four months after the course completion date. If this is not the case, please contact the International Student Support team.
Changing courses
If you have failed your course or are considering making any changes to your programme, you are strongly advised to contact the Immigration Advice Service.
UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) has introduced changes that may affect students changing, transferring or starting on a new course, or those who fail their course and are offered a lower award.
If you are moving from one course to another, you must apply for a visa for the new course before you start it. Failure to do so will result in your application being refused and you will have to return home.
The gap between the expiry date of your visa and the start of the next course must be no more than:
- 28 days if your next course is longer than six months or is a pre-sessional course; or
- seven days if your next course is less than six months or is not a pre-sessional course.
If your course start date is more than 28 days after your visa expiry date you will need to return home and apply for a new visa from outside the UK.
Related links
International Student Support self-referral form
For any queries, please complete our self-referral form. We aim to respond within three working days.
Related links
International Student Support self-referral form
For any queries, please complete our self-referral form. We aim to respond within three working days.