Manchester is home to some of the UK's finest universities, including the University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, and the Royal Northern College of Music. Every year, thousands of international students arrive in the city to study, living in areas from Gorton and Levenshulme to Stockport and beyond. As leading immigration solicitors in Manchester, MCR Solicitors helps students navigate the visa process from application to graduation and beyond.
What Is the UK Student Visa?
The Student visa (formerly Tier 4) allows international students to study full-time courses at approved UK education providers. The visa is part of the UK's points-based immigration system and requires a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed sponsor.
Key Requirements
1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Your university or college must issue a CAS, which is an electronic record confirming your course details, fees, and the qualifications you used to gain admission. Each CAS has a unique reference number that you will use in your visa application.
2. English Language Requirement
The level of English required depends on your course:
- Degree level and above: CEFR level B2 (IELTS 5.5-6.5 depending on institution)
- Below degree level: CEFR level B1
Some students are exempt if they are from a majority English-speaking country or have completed a previous qualification taught in English.
3. Financial Requirement
You must show you can cover:
- Course fees — the amount stated on your CAS, minus any fees already paid
- Living costs — £1,023 per month for up to 9 months if studying in Manchester (outside London rate)
Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days, with the closing balance dated within 31 days of your application. Students planning to live in affordable areas like Longsight, Gorton, or Bolton will find their living costs well within the required amounts.
Working While Studying
Student visa holders can usually work:
- Part-time — up to 20 hours per week during term time
- Full-time — during official vacation periods
- Work placements as part of your course
You cannot be self-employed, work as a professional sportsperson, or fill a permanent full-time vacancy.
After Your Studies: The Graduate Visa
One of the most attractive features of studying in the UK is the Graduate visa, which allows you to stay and work (or look for work) after completing your course:
- 2 years for bachelor's and master's graduates
- 3 years for PhD graduates
The Graduate visa requires no job offer and allows unrestricted work. Many of our clients use this time to gain professional experience in Manchester before transitioning to a Skilled Worker visa.
Switching From Student Visa to Work Visa
If you find a job with a sponsoring employer while on your Student or Graduate visa, you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa from within the UK. Our immigration lawyers in Manchester help graduates make this transition smoothly.
Common Student Visa Mistakes
As one of the most experienced Manchester law firms handling student immigration, we warn against:
- Submitting financial evidence too early or too late — the 28-day and 31-day rules are strict
- Not declaring previous visa refusals — failure to disclose can result in a 10-year ban
- Exceeding work hours — working more than 20 hours during term time can result in visa curtailment
- Poor attendance — your university is required to report poor attendance, which can affect your visa
Contact Our Manchester Team
Whether you are applying for a Student visa, extending your stay, or transitioning to a work visa after graduation, our immigration solicitors in Manchester can help. Call 0161 466 1280 or email [email protected] for a free initial consultation. We support students from across Longsight, Gorton, Levenshulme, Stockport, Bolton, and all of Greater Manchester.
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