STUDENT VISAS
Guide for English Language Learners in London
Information about UK Student Visas
Welcome! If you're planning to study English at our accredited London English language school, we’re excited to help you plan your journey. Depending on your nationality, the length of your course, and your current immigration status, you may need:
- An official letter from us to present at the UK Border Control
- A Standard Visitor Visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
- A Short-term Study Visa
Disclaimer: Visa rules can change. This page is for guidance only. Always check with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for the latest official updates.
Who Needs What?
Every country is generally classified as either: a) a Visa-required country, or b) an ETA-eligible country
If you’re from the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or other visa-exempt nations, you’ll likely need an ETA instead of a visa. Check if you need an ETA or visa to come to the UK.
Course Duration & Required Visa Type
• Course up to 6 months → Apply for a Standard Visitor Visa or ETA
• Course from 6 months to 11 months → Apply for a Short-term Study Visa
• Course over 11 months → Requires a Student Visa (not currently supported by our school)
| Your Region | Up to 6 months | 6 to 11 months | Over 11 months |
|---|---|---|---|
| ETA Nation List EU, EEA, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, and other countries | ETA required | Short-term Study visa | Student visa |
| Visa National List | Standard Visitor visa | Short-term Study visa | Student visa |
Studying for 1 Week to 6 Months
You can study in the UK using either a Standard Visitor Visa or ETA, depending on your nationality.
If you're from an ETA-eligible country but have a criminal record or past entry refusals, it's safer to apply for a Standard Visitor visa instead.
If you need a Standard Visitor Visa, apply online up to 3 months before travel. You’ll also attend an appointment at a visa application centre. You must meet the eligibility requirements and only do permitted activities.
You can check the Standard Visitor visa Application guide here
Key Facts about the ETA
- Not a visa, but digital travel permission
- Valid for 2 years or until your passport expires
- Apply via the UK ETA app or online
- Fee: £16 (subject to change)
- You must have it before boarding your flight or train
Studying for 6 to 11 months
If your study course lasts between 6 and 11 months, you will definitely need a short-term visa to study in the UK. But the visa you apply for depends on your circumstances.
If you’re studying on an English language course such as those at The English Studio, for up to 11 months, apply for a Short-term study visa.
If you’re coming to study on a further or higher education course, apply for a Student visa. Please note: We are not currently able to sponsor Student visa applications.
Or if you’re aged 4 to 17 and coming to study at an independent school, apply for a Child Student visa.
Apply for a Short-term study visa: step by step
Courses over 11 months
To study for over 11 months, you’ll need a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4).
Please note: We do not sponsor Student Visas for long-term programmes.
Living, working or planning a move to the UK?
Many visa holders, including those on Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) and Skilled Worker visas, can study English alongside work or other commitments. Our flexible courses are available year-round with morning and afternoon study options.
Take a Free Placement Test
Register for trial lesson before you book
or Contact Us to Find the Right Course.
You may be able to join an English course if your visa permits study:
• On Skilled Worker, Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS), or other work visas → You can usually study.
• On a Visitor or Short-term Study visa → You may study if the course fits your visa duration and conditions.
Always check your visa terms via UKVI.
UK visas and registering with the police
Police registration is no longer required for international students. This requirement was officially withdrawn in 2022.
Attendance Policy
To meet UKVI requirements, students must attend at least 85% of scheduled classes. Please refer to our Attendance Policy for full details.
How We Support You
• You’ll receive an official acceptance letter on English Studio letterhead for your visa.
• Continuous support throughout your course—from UKVI compliance to practical living advice.
Useful links:
Visa National List
Immigration Rules - Immigration Rules Appendix Visitor: Visa national list - Guidance - GOV.UK
ETA National List
Immigration Rules - Immigration Rules Appendix ETA National List - Guidance - GOV.UK
Questions about UK visas
Find answers about course prices, start dates, booking, visas, accommodation and studying with The English Studio.
How long does visa processing take?
Visitor and Short-term Study visas take around 15 working days (3 weeks). ETA is typically processed within 3 days.
Can I work while studying in the UK?
No. Employment is not permitted on Visitor, ETA, or Short-term Study visas.
Can I extend or switch my visa in the UK?
No. You must apply for the correct visa from outside the UK.
Can my family accompany me?
No. Dependants are not permitted on Visitor or Short-term Study visas.
I’m under 18. What do I need?
You'll need written parental/guardian consent and confirmation of your accommodation in the UK.
What is the ETA?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation is not a visa. It allows citizens from certain countries to visit the UK multiple times (up to 6 months each) within 2 years.
What happens if my ETA is refused?
You will need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead, which can take longer.
Can I arrive early or stay after my course ends?
ETA/Visitor visas allow a maximum of 6 months; Short-term Study Visas allow your course duration plus 30 days.
Is police registration still required?
No. It was discontinued in 2022.