The UK is an exciting option for students or professionals who want to experience life abroad. Whether you plan to study or work in the UK, bustling cities, diverse communities, new opportunities and easy access to the rest of Europe are just some of the reasons the UK is the destination of choice for many.
Make sure you understand the UK visa application process before you apply by reading the guide below.
Study in the UK
If you plan to do a short course that lasts 6 months or less, you can apply for a Standard Visitor visa. If your course will take between 6 and 11 months to complete, you should apply for a Short-term study visa. For any longer courses, a Student visa is required and applicants must be sponsored by a college or university. Read more here.
The ability to speak, read, write and understand English is essential for anyone who wants to study at a UK institution. An IELTS test will form part of all visa application requirements and universities will also expect to see IELTS results as part of their application process. Take the world’s most trusted English test with the British Council and get access to comprehensive material to ensure you get the score you need. IELTS score requirements differ depending on where you plan to study and what you are studying so confirm with the university what score you should be aiming for.
Once you have your student visa, be aware of what the visa enables you to do in the UK. Full time students are allowed to work for limited hours after school hours and during holidays. The student visa opens up a world of opportunities for international students who are also looking for work experience. Read more on the UK government website here.
Work in the UK
If you plan to gain career experience in the UK, start by confirming which industry you will work in so you can apply for the correct visa. Apply for a Skilled Worker visa if you have applied to work for a UK employer who will sponsor your stay and can offer you a certificate of sponsorship. Eligible jobs include finance and management roles, travel and tourism, engineering and more. Find the list of occupations that require a Skilled Worker visa here. If you plan to work in healthcare, you can apply for a Health and Care Worker visa.
You may be required to take IELTS UKVI as part of your UK visa and work application process. Confirm which IELTS test you should take with the organisation you have applied to work at. The required IELTS score will depend on the type of work you aim to conduct in the UK.
Other considerations when applying for a visa to work in the UK include meeting certain salary requirements and whether your employer is approved by the Home Office. Read more here.
Always stay up to date on your visa requirements and make sure you know when to renew your visa or make updates if you change jobs or graduate from university.
Book your IELTS test with us today and get ahead of your application requirements so you can achieve your goals in the UK!