Planning to get your higher education in Newcastle? It is pretty exciting news. Newcastle is one of the top-ranked student cities. It has world-class universities such as Newcastle University and Northumbria University. It is a dream for students to study in these universities.
But before you go to enjoy your student life here, you should secure your UK visa. This 2025-26 guide will walk you through how to apply for a student visa.
Here are 5 easy steps you can follow:
1. Get a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies
Without a CAS, it is not impossible to apply for a visa. Here is what you can do:
- Receive an Unconditional Offer: Get an unconditional offer from your university in Newcastle. It depends on your score in the exams and the English language test. So, clear them first before proceeding.
- Request your CAS: After confirming your offer, ask for a CAS from your university. Your university will need the required documents, such as certificates, transcripts, or other documents.
- Receive your Unique CAS Number: Once you have verified your details, your university will give you a unique CAS number. Your visa application will need this number.
2. Gather Your Required Documents
Always be ready and gather your necessary documents. There are important documents you must have:
- Passport: You need a valid passport to fill out a visa application. It is proof of your identification. It should be valid for the duration of your stay.
- Financial Proof: You need financial proof that you can pay your rent and tuition fees. You can use a UK guarantor who guarantees your payback.
- Academic Documents: Gather your certificates or degrees that can support your course admission.
- English Language Proficiency: Submit specific English test results as the university has asked. It can be IELTS, TOEFL, or another test scores.
You will need parental consent if you are under 18.
3. Apply for a Visa Online
If you have completed these two steps. It is time for the third step, which is applying for a visa on the online website.
- Application Form: Complete your application form and fill out all the important details. Such as personal details, CAS number, and academic information.
- Pay the Application Fee: Once you complete your application, pay for the visa form. It can be £500-£530.
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): It gives you access to the National Health Service of the UK. You pay around £750-£790 per year for your stay.
4. Attend Biometric and Document Submission
Once you are paying fees, you need to attend a biometric submission. Here is what to do:
- Biometric Appointment: Book an appointment at the visa application centre to provide your fingerprints and photographs.
- Upload Supporting Documentation: You should always carry copies of the documents just in case of urgency.
5. Wait for a Decision
When you are done, follow these steps. Now you just relax and wait.
- Processing Time: It depends on the country, but it usually takes 3-6 weeks of processing.
- Receive Your Decision: If you get approved, you will receive a decision letter. Your passport will come with a temporary stamp. And later you will collect your Biometric Residence Permit in the UK.
Choosing Accommodation
If your visa is approved, now it is time to book student accommodation in Newcastle. Start looking early for accommodation to avoid last-minute hustle. There are some popular areas among students, you can look for:
- Jesmond
- Heaton
- City Centre
Pick an accommodation based on your preferences. Book student accommodation which can provide you with affordability, convenience, and comfort.
Conclusion
Applying for a visa is not that difficult with the right planning and preparation. From filling out the application to receiving your decision letter, you will learn everything.
Always double-check to make sure you filled in the right information. Apply at least 3-4 months before your semester starts. It will reduce your stress.
Once you get your visa, go pack your bags and fly to Newcastle. Good luck with your study journey.