Immigration

Do I need a visa to come to the UK to study?

Yes all international students except EEA or Swiss nationals require a visa if they are intending to study at the University.

When should I apply for a visa?

You should apply in good time for your visa so that you are not delayed in getting into the UK, normally 3 to 4 months before you start your course. You should not buy an expensive airline ticket before you get your student visa, just in case things go wrong.

How do I apply for a visa?

You should apply for a student visa in the country of which you are a national or where you legally settled. You should contact the nearest UK Embassy/High Commission and they will explain the procedures for applying for a student visa.

http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/wheretoapply/

What is the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)?

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) was introduced in November 2007 to ensure that people who are applying to study certain sensitive subjects in the UK do not have links to weapons of mass destruction (WMD) programs.

If you intend to undertake postgraduate studies and/or research which lead to a Doctorate or Masters degree in certain designated subjects, you will have to get an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate before you apply for your visa. For full details see

Please contact immigrationservice@warwick.ac.uk to find out if your course requires ATAS certificate.

What if I am refused a UK visa?

Students who apply to spend over six months in the UK have the right of appeal. If you are refused a visa, the entry clearance officer will give you a written notice clearly explaining the decision, which will also tell you if you have the right of appeal. You should contact The Student Advice Centre immediately.

Can I bring my wife/husband/civil partner and children with me?

Yes, you can bring them with you provided you can support them yourself without needing help from public funds. Children must be under 18 years of age. They will need to apply for student dependent visa.

What are public funds?

Under the Immigration Rules, international students must be able to support themselves and their family without claiming certain benefits from the government. For full definition please see ‘public funds’ under the following link:

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/policyandlaw/immigrationlaw/immigrationrules/introduction/

Can I work in the UK during my studies?

You are allowed to take part-time work (no more than 20hours per week) during term-time or full time work during holidays.

Can I extend my stay as a student in the UK?

If you enter the UK with a student visa or prospective student visa, you would be allowed to extend your visa. Normally, visa is granted for the entire length of your studies plus four months. You should apply for an extension at least 4 weeks before your visa expires. You should contact either The Student Advice Centre or immigrationservice@warwick.ac.uk for more information.

Do I have to register with the Police when I arrive in the UK

Nationals of certain countries are required to register with the police if they are entering the UK for more than six months. Your visa will state if you are required to register with the Police. Please contact advice@warwicksu.com or immigrationservice@warwick.ac.ukwhen you arrive at the University.

Can I travel outside the UK during my studies?

You are allowed to travel outside the UK for visits, holidays or work placement during the validity of your visa. You will need to obtain a visa for the country you are visiting. Please contact the national UKembassy/high commission of the country you are intending to visit for more information. It will advice you if people of your nationality need to apply for visas before travelling to that country You can also contact The Student Advice Centre for more information. Useful website:

http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/files/docs/immigration/schengen_faq.doc

Would I be able to stay in the UK with my student visa if I withdraw from the University?

No. It is a serious offence to stay in the UK if you have a student visa but are no longer a student. Please contact The Student Advice Centre immediately if you are thinking of withdrawing from your studies either temporarily or permanently.