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What to do if you need a visa to study

Different visa types and guidance

Most international students need a Student Route visa to study in the UK.  

On this visa you can study as follows: 

  • Full-time at degree level or above; and 

  • part-time at postgraduate degree level (as long as the course is at RQF level 7 or above)

If you can't find the information you need, there are various other sources of help:

Student visas

All you need to know about student visas and the UKVI Student Route, including applying from the UK, from your own country, e-Visas, credibility interviews, and information for EU, EEA and Swiss students.

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Visas for students

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

Find out how to receive your CAS, including the steps you need to take to ensure it is processed.

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Receive your CAS

Post-study work visas

If you want to work in the UK after you graduate, find out what post-study visa you need and the visa requirements.

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Visas to work in the UK

Exchange and study abroad visas

Visa information for Exchange and Study Abroad students about your student visa and joining us in the UK.

Exchange and Study Abroad visas

Schengen visas

If you're from outside the European Union, discover how you can travel inside the EU during your time in the UK by applying for Schengen Visa.

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Visas to visit Europe

Visitor visas

If you're thinking of inviting friends and family to visit you during your studies, they may need a visitor visa. Find out what you need to do to apply for one, and download a sample invitation letter. 

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Visas for your visitors

Visa FAQs

Read the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about getting your visa to study at the University of Portsmouth.
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See FAQs

Academic Tech Approval Scheme

Read more about the ATAS and whether you need to apply for this as part of your visa.
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Learn about the ATAS

Graduation visas

If you have family living outside the United Kingdom who'd like to attend your graduation ceremony, you may need to organise a visa for them.
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Visas for graduation guests

Extend your student visa

If you need to extend your visa to cover your current course, or you're joining a new course, you must extend your student visa to study in the UK.
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Visa extensions

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