UK Student Visa Guide 2025: Step-by-Step Process for Nepalese Students

Planning to study in the UK? Every year, many Nepalese students choose the United Kingdom because of its good education, wide range of courses, and great opportunities after finishing studies. The UK offers a lively student life and degrees recognized all over the world that can help shape your future.

Before you start your journey, it is important to understand the student visa process clearly. This step-by-step guide is made especially for Nepalese students applying in 2025. It explains everything from choosing a course to getting your student visa so you can start your UK studies with confidence.

Step 1: Prepare for Your English Proficiency Test or Check for a Waiver

Most UK universities require proof of English language ability. Commonly accepted tests include:

• IELTS Academic or IELTS UKVI
• PTE Academic
• TOEFL iBT
• Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
• Duolingo English Test (accepted by many institutions)

Waiver Options: Some universities waive the test if your prior education was in English or if you scored well in English in your previous academic qualifications. Check each university’s specific policy before booking your test.

Step 2: Choose Your Course and University

Select a program that aligns with your interests and long-term goals. Popular fields among Nepalese students include:

• Business and Management
• Computing and Information Technology
• Engineering and Technology
• Health Sciences
• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences

Ensure the university you choose is on the UKVI list of licensed student sponsors.

Step 3: Apply for Your Chosen Course

Submit your application directly through the university’s website or through an authorized education consultancy. Documents typically required include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Passport copy
• English test result or waiver documentation
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal statement
• Letters of recommendation (if needed)
• CV or resume (for postgraduate applicants)

Step 4: Receive Your Offer Letter

After your application is reviewed, the university will send you one of the following:

• Conditional Offer – You must fulfill specific requirements like submitting pending documents or paying a tuition deposit.
• Unconditional Offer – You have met all criteria and can proceed to the next step.

If a deposit is required, make the payment on time to confirm your seat and proceed with CAS issuance.

Step 5: Take Your TB (Tuberculosis) Test

All Nepalese students must take a TB test from a UKVI-approved clinic in Nepal. Accepted centers include:

• IOM Migration Health Division, Panipokhari, Kathmandu
• Norvic International Hospital, Thapathali, Kathmandu

The certificate is valid for six months and must be included in your visa application. Take the test early to avoid delays in your process.

Step 6: Receive Your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

Once you meet all offer conditions and pay the tuition deposit, your university will issue the CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies). To receive your CAS, you may be asked to submit:

• Passport copy
• Proof of deposit payment
• Financial documents (savings, loan, or sponsorship)
• TB test certificate
• Additional forms or a short pre-CAS interview

Important:
Most universities now conduct a pre-CAS interview to assess your study intentions, financial readiness, and understanding of the course. This is usually a short online interview.

The CAS reference number is essential for your visa application. Double-check your CAS details for accuracy.

Step 7: Prepare Your Financial Documents

You must show you have enough funds to cover:

1. Tuition fees for the first year (minus any amount already paid)
2. Living expenses for up to 9 months:
   • £1,334 per month for London (total £12,006)
   • £1,023 per month outside London (total £9,207)

Accepted financial evidence includes:

• Personal or parental bank savings (held for at least 28 consecutive days)
• Education loan from a recognized bank (no 28-day requirement)
• Sponsorship letter with valid financial documents

Make sure your documents meet UKVI format and date requirements.

Step 8: Submit Your Visa Application Online

Apply through the official UK government website: www.gov.uk/student-visa

Steps include:

• Create your UKVI account
• Fill out the visa application form
• Upload required documents (PDF format recommended)
• Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Schedule your biometric appointment at VFS Nepal

Step 9: Pay Your Visa Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Before completing your visa application, you must pay:

• Visa application fee: £490
• IHS fee: £776 per year of your course

The IHS provides you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Save and print your payment receipts for reference.

Step 10: Attend Your Biometric Appointment

Go to the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Kathmandu at your scheduled time. Bring:

• Printed application form
• Passport
• TB certificate
• Financial and academic documents (originals and copies)

At the center, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken to complete the biometric step. Priority services are available for quicker processing.

After submitting your visa application, UKVI may contact you for an interview. This credibility interview is usually conducted via phone or video call to assess your intentions, financial background, and course knowledge. Be prepared to answer honestly and confidently.

Step 11: Get Your Visa Decision and Access Your eVisa

UKVI typically processes student visa applications within a month but it may differ from time to time.

Once your visa is granted:

1. You will receive an email or SMS confirmation.
2. Log into your UKVI account to link your passport and eVisa.
3. Download or screenshot your eVisa details.
4. At the airport, UK immigration officers will verify your eVisa electronically.

Note: There is no physical visa sticker or BRP card. The UK now uses a fully digital eVisa system.

Final Preparations Before Traveling

After receiving your visa:

• Book your flight and arrange accommodation
• Pack essential documents:
  • Passport
  • CAS letter
  • Screenshot or printout of your eVisa
  • TB certificate
  • Financial documents
• You can arrive in the UK up to one month before your course starts (if the course duration is more than six months)

The UK student visa process for Nepalese students in 2025 may seem detailed, but it is straightforward when approached step-by-step. With the introduction of the digital eVisa and increasing focus on interviews, preparation is more important than ever.

By staying informed, organizing your documents, and practicing for interviews, you can handle the process with confidence. Thousands of Nepali students successfully start their academic journey in the UK each year—you can be one of them.

If you want expert guidance from start to finish, the Edwise Foundation team is here to support you at every step.