Candidates applying for an academic/student visa are able to enter the UK to study if they have secured a place to study on a full time basis at an established educational institution.

In order to be accepted for this visa type it is essential that you can meet the requirements set out in your chosen course and that you can cover the cost of the course itself as well as the maintenance and accommodation costs. You must be able to pay for all of these aspects without the need for external funding.

If you are wishing to enter the UK on a student visa it should be noted that you must make it clear to immigration and visa officials that you intend to return home once your studying is complete. Student visas are normally granted for an initial period of one year; however they are determined by the length of your course. Anyone who wishes to come to the UK who is not already accepted on a course can apply for a student visa as a prospective student.

If you are a candidate from a visa national country, which means you need a visa even for entry to the UK as a visitor, then you must apply for a student visa at the British Embassy/Consulate/High commission in your home country. If you are applying for a student visa from a country NOT classed as a visa national country then you can simply present the relevant documents to an immigration officer on entry.   

If you are a medical or dental graduate who is seeking post graduate training or further study then you can gain entry to the UK on a student visa. People who are training in the medical profession may also visit the UK to undertake exams as a visitor and having passed these exams can switch to a training visa in the UK.