What nationalities need a visa to study in the UK?
If you are a UK or European Economic Area citizen you will not need a visa. Citizens from other countries need a student visa to study for more than six months in the UK. There are a few exceptions and special cases (for example if you hold a British National overseas passport).
Where can I apply for a student visa?
You must apply in your own country. You apply at your nearest UK visa application centre. Visit the UK Border Agency website to find out more.
How long will it take to get a student visa?
That depends on the country you are applying in. Some countries are quick, in others it can take a long time. Expect it to take longer between July and September when most students apply. Check with your local visa application centre.
Will my English Language level be tested for my acceptance to CCSS?
Our admissions policy states that our students must have a specific level of English to be able to cope with the demands of the course. The UK Border Agency also expects CCSS to demonstrate the student’s level of English for their visa application before we issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies. This can be done a number of ways, please contact our admissions team for details.
Should I use an agent to get a visa?
You should not need to use an agent, and of course, they will charge you a fee. However, a reliable agent will know about local things such as waiting times, points to be careful about when you submit your application form, other documents you should supply, questions you might get asked, etc.
How long will my student visa allow me to stay in the UK?
You should be given a visa until the end of your course. That means you will be given a two-year visa if you are joining a two-year A-level course, or a one-year visa if you have enrolled for a one-year course, etc. The amount of time that your visa extends beyond the end of your course is detailed on the guidance for applying for your visa. It should allow you to remain in the UK to get your exam results (GCSE and A-level examination results are published in August each year). You should check when your visa expires as soon as you are given it, and you should request a change if you have not been given a visa for the right length of time. It is possible to extend your student visa while you are in the UK, but it is expensive to do.
What happens if my student visa runs out while I am in the UK?
We will help you apply for an extension, but you must tell us 13 weeks before your visa expires. We cannot help you get an extension for more than two months after your course here finishes; you must ask your next college or university. It is expensive to extend your visa in this way - better to make sure your visa is for the right length of time at the point where you are given the visa.
What happens if I get the visa but I do not show up at CCSS?
We have to tell the UK Border Agency that you have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from us but that you have not turned up. They will put your name on the computer that the Immigration Officers at the airport use. If you get ‘blacklisted’ it will make it very difficult for you to get another UK visa in future.
What can I do if my visa application is rejected?
You must contact us as soon as possible so we can advise you. You may be entitled to apply again (and your first rejection should not affect the result of a second application), but that will take time. If you want to give up your place at CCSS you must tell us as soon as possible.
We may keep your Security Deposit (and the first term's fees) unless we are sure that you have done your best to get a visa by complying with the UK Border Agency rules.
How can I make sure that my application for a visa is successful?
Your papers need to convince the person who looks at your application that you meet the requirements. The visa officer needs to be sure that:
How does the UK Border Agency recognise CCSS?
CCSS is registered with the UK DfE, regularly inspected and holds the highest accreditation with the UK Border Agency, having been awarded Highly Trusted Sponsor Status and upgrading our licence to sponsor students under the Tier 4 points-based system, following the change in the UK Border Agency regulations.
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You have been accepted onto a full-time course at a recognised school.
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You have the qualifications needed to cope with the course (including language skills).
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You have the money to pay for the course and your living expenses.
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You intend to return to your own country when you finally finish studying.