Thousands of Pakistani students each year aspire to study in the UK. With world-class institutions, internationally recognized degrees, and an abundance of cultural experiences, the UK is a popular option in higher learning. One of the most common challenges students face is navigating the process of applying for a visa online for UK students coming to the UK from Pakistan.
This step-by-step guide will guide you through the entire procedure, from choosing the best route to submitting an online visa application and everything else in between.
Why Choose the UK for Higher Education?
Before we get into the visa application process, we’ll briefly discuss the reasons Pakistani students choose to study in the UK:
- Recognized degrees globally
- Work visa for post-study (Graduate Route)
- Research and education opportunities of the highest quality
- Multicultural environment
- Funding options and scholarships
However, to make this dream a reality, the first step is to successfully submit an application for the UK Student Visa—and that’s why this guide can help.
Who Can Apply for a UK Student Visa from Pakistan?
You may apply for a UK Student Visa if:
- You’ve been offered an unconditional deal from a regulated UK university.
- You may demonstrate the validity of your English competence (e.g. IELTS PTE, IELTS, or a similar test).
- You’ve got enough money to pay for your living and tuition costs.
- You’ve got a Confirmation Acceptance to Studies (CAS) at the institution.
Benefits of Applying Online from Pakistan
Applying online for a visa in the UK from Pakistan has many benefits:
- There is no need to visit embassies to fill out the form
- Follow the progress of your application on the internet
- Payments via digital means for fees
- Set up biometric appointments quickly
- Send the required documents securely
With modern digital systems, online applications are easier and quicker for Pakistani students.
How to Apply for a UK Student Visa Online
Here’s the complete procedure that each student from Pakistan must follow when applying online:
1. Get an Unconditional Offer from a UK University
Before you apply, contact UK universities approved as Student visa sponsors. After acceptance, you’ll be issued:
- Offer Letter
- After you have accepted it and met the requirements, they’ll mail your confirmation of acceptance to you via CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance to Study)
Important: You need your CAS to submit with your visa application. It is a unique reference number and contains information about your course.
2. Prepare Your Required Documents
Begin to collect these documents
- Valid passport (at least 6 months valid)
- The CAS of your institution
- The financial documents (bank statement indicating that you have enough money to pay for tuition and living expenses)
- English certification of language (IELTS UKVI ) or an equivalent)
- TB Test Certificate (mandatory from Pakistan)
- Academic transcripts and certifications
- Parental consent (if under 18)
- ATAS Certificate (for sensitive subject matter)
3. Apply Online at the Official UK Visa Website
Visit the official UK visa portal
You’ll have to:
- Create an account on GOV.UK account
- Complete your Student Visa application form (VAF9)
- Upload your documents
- Pay the fee and the IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge) online.
- Student visa fee: ~PS490
- IHS PS776 for each year of research (subject to changes)
4. Book Your Biometric Appointment at VAC
After you’ve submitted your application:
- Schedule an appointment with Gerry’s Visa Application Centre (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi)
- You’ll receive an email containing information about your appointment.
- Bring original documents along with a biometric confirmation sheet.
Tip: Be within 15 minutes before the scheduled time and have all your documents well-organized.
5. Attend the Biometric Appointment
The VAC will be:
- Send in your passport
- Give fingerprints and a photograph.
- Documents supporting the submission (if required)
Once completed, your passport and other documents are sent to UKVI for processing.
6. Track Your Application Online
Following your appointment:
- Follow your application with the GWF number
- You can also choose emails or SMS messages (at the cost of a small amount)
Standard processing time 3 – 6 weeks
Super Priority and Priority options are available for an additional cost.
Common Issues Faced by Pakistani Students (And How to Solve Them)
The process of applying for a UK visa can be a stressful experience. Here are the real challenges students confront — and solutions:
Problem 1: Financial Documents Get Rejected
Solution:
Verify your bank statement reads:
- Is it in your name or the names of your parents’
- The condition has been maintained for 28 consecutive hours.
- Includes full tuition and living expenses (~PS1,334 monthly for London and PS1,023 for those outside of London)
Problem 2: Wrong Visa Category Selected
Solution:
Always opt for a Student Visa (Tier 4 route), not a visitor or a short-term study visa, if your course is less than six months.
Problem 3: CAS Details Mismatch
Solution:
Please ensure that the course name, start and end dates, and CAS number match the information in your application.
Problem 4: TB Test Certificate Missing
Solution:
Have your TB test performed at UK Home Office-approved Clinics that only accept UK Home Office-approved patients (e.g. IOM clinics located in Pakistan)
Problem 5: Delay in Appointments
Solution:
To avoid the rush season, make sure you apply at least three months before your course’s commencement date.
How Long Does It Take to Get a UK Student Visa from Pakistan?
- Standard service: 3 to 6 weeks
- Priority service: 5 workdays
- Super priority service: All hours of the day (in selected places)
Tips: The earlier you start the tip, the easier it becomes.
Conclusion
The online application process for Pakistani students applying for a visa to the UK from Pakistan is easier than ever, particularly for students. You can start your educational journey in the UK with the proper documents, planning, and a keen eye for detail.
If you’re looking for an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD, the UK welcomes bright minds, and this guide will make sure that the process of applying for a visa won’t be an obstacle.
Need Help with Your UK Student Visa?
At BFL Consultants, we help Pakistani applicants submit applications for UK student visas. We provide complete advice on everything from admission to universities to visa applications.
Contact us today to help you realize your UK dreams.
Visit our Website or submit an enquiry form on our Website to begin.
