UK Student Visa 2026 (Requirements, Proof of Funds, Work Rules & Dependants Explained)

UK Student Visa 2026: Requirements, Funds, Work Rights & Dependants Rules

Introduction

The UK Student Visa is one of the easiest legal ways to enter the UK—but only if you apply correctly.

Many refusals happen because of:
❌ incorrect funds
❌ fake documents
❌ weak study plan explanation
❌ misunderstanding dependant rules

Let’s break it all down.

What is a CAS?

CAS means Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.
It’s a reference number issued by your UK school/university to support your visa application.

No CAS = no student visa.

UK Student Visa Requirements (2026)

To apply, you generally need:
✅ CAS from an approved institution
✅ Proof of funds (if required)
✅ English language ability (if required)
✅ Valid passport
✅ TB test (if required)
✅ Genuine student intention

Dependants Rules (IMPORTANT UPDATE)

This changed recently and many people still don’t know.

The UK government states that dependants may be allowed only if you are:

• government-sponsored (long course), OR
• a full-time postgraduate student (RQF 7+) for 9+ months, and additional conditions apply for courses starting on or after 1 January 2024

Meaning: many taught master’s students starting after that date cannot bring dependants, depending on course type and eligibility.

This is why you must confirm your course type before planning family travel.

Proof of Funds (Simple Explanation)

UKVI wants to know you can pay for:

• tuition fees (as stated in CAS), AND
• living costs (maintenance)

Your funds usually need to be held for a set period (as required by UKVI guidance).

✅ Use clean bank statements
✅ Avoid sudden large deposits without explanation
✅ Ensure your name matches

Student Visa Work Rules (General)

Students can often work:

• part-time during term
• full-time during holidays

But the hours depend on your course level and visa conditions.

Always confirm your BRP/visa conditions.

Student Visa Documents Checklist

✅ Passport
✅ CAS number
✅ Academic certificates
✅ English test results (if needed)
✅ Bank statements (if needed)
✅ TB certificate (if needed)
✅ Sponsor letter (if sponsored)

Common Mistakes Students Make

❌ Wrong bank statement format
❌ Funds not held long enough
❌ Fake travel history claims
❌ CAS errors not corrected
❌ Applying too late

Final Advice

If your goal is UK study + long-term future:
✅ choose a credible course
✅ prepare funds properly
✅ understand dependant restrictions early