The UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) allows Nepali students to study at UK-licensed institutions for courses longer than 6 months. The application is primarily online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal, with biometrics collected at the UK Visa Application Centre in Kathmandu. This step-by-step guide covers everything Nepali students need for a successful 2026 application.
The UK Student visa (formerly Tier 4) allows Nepali students to study at UK-licensed institutions for courses longer than 6 months. The application is primarily online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal, with biometrics collected at the UK Visa Application Centre in Kathmandu. This step-by-step guide covers everything Nepali students need for a successful 2026 application.
Key Requirements Overview
- Unconditional offer from a UK Student Route-licensed institution
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number from your university
- English language: IELTS for UKVI (or other approved test) meeting institution minimum
- Financial evidence: GBP 1,334/month for up to 9 months (London) or GBP 1,023/month (outside London) — held for 28 consecutive days
- IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge): GBP 776/year of study
- Valid passport
- ATAS clearance (for certain postgraduate science/engineering/tech research programmes)
Step 1: Receive Your CAS Number
After accepting your conditional offer and meeting all conditions (submitting final transcripts, English scores), your university will assign you a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number. The CAS is valid for 6 months — you must submit your visa application within this window. The CAS contains your course details, fees, and any conditions your university has noted. Review it carefully before applying.
Step 2: Financial Evidence — The 28-Day Rule
This is where many Nepali students face complications. UK Visas and Immigration requires bank statements showing you have held sufficient funds for 28 consecutive days ending within 31 days of your visa application. For a 1-year course in London: GBP 1,334 × 9 = GBP 12,006 + first-year tuition (if not already paid) = total required balance. The funds must be present continuously for 28 days — not just on the statement date.
Step 3: Pay IHS and Application Fee
Before submitting your application, pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) at immigration-health-surcharge.service.gov.uk. Rate: GBP 776/year for students (reduced rate — standard rate is GBP 1,035/year for workers). For a 2-year master’s: GBP 1,552 total. The visa application fee is GBP 490 for applications from outside the UK.
Step 4: Biometrics at VFS Global Kathmandu
After submitting the online application, book a biometric appointment at the UK Visa Application Centre operated by VFS Global in Kathmandu (Tripureshwor area). Bring your appointment confirmation, passport, and all supporting documents. Processing time after biometrics: typically 3 weeks. During busy periods (June–September), allow 4–6 weeks.
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| CAS number | From your UK university — valid 6 months |
| Passport | Valid for duration of study + 6 months |
| Bank statements | 28 consecutive days showing required balance |
| English test certificate | IELTS UKVI or approved equivalent |
| Academic transcripts | All qualifications from SLC/SEE onwards |
| Tuberculosis (TB) test | Required for Nepal — must be from approved clinic |
| IHS payment confirmation | Immigration Health Surcharge receipt |
TB Test Requirement for Nepali Students
Nepal is on the list of countries where a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate is mandatory for UK visa applications for stays longer than 6 months. Get your TB test from a UKVI-approved clinic in Kathmandu. Results are valid for 6 months. Cost: approximately NPR 3,000–5,000. EVEC can provide a list of approved TB testing clinics in Kathmandu.
Does the UK Student visa allow work?
Yes. UK Student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacations. This applies to degree-level (RQF Level 6+) courses. Students on foundation or below-degree courses are not permitted to work.
What is IELTS for UKVI?
IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) is a specific IELTS test approved for visa applications. It is the same format as the standard IELTS Academic test but conducted at a UKVI-approved test centre. Check whether your UK institution accepts standard IELTS or requires the UKVI version specifically.
How long does UK student visa take from Nepal?
Standard processing: 3 weeks from biometrics submission. During peak season (June–September): 4–6 weeks. Priority service is available (GBP 250 extra) for 5-day processing.
- UK Student visa (gov.uk) (www.gov.uk)
- UKVI visa application (www.gov.uk)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the UK Student visa allow work?
Yes. UK Student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official vacations. This applies to degree-level (RQF Level 6+) courses. Students on foundation or below-degree courses are not permitted to work.
What is IELTS for UKVI?
IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) is a specific IELTS test approved for visa applications. It is the same format as the standard IELTS Academic test but conducted at a UKVI-approved test centre. Check whether your UK institution accepts standard IELTS or requires the UKVI version specifically.
How long does UK student visa take from Nepal?
Standard processing: 3 weeks from biometrics submission. During peak season (June–September): 4–6 weeks. Priority service is available (GBP 250 extra) for 5-day processing.
Get Expert Guidance from EVEC
EVEC has helped thousands of Nepali students successfully study abroad since 2005. Our AIRC-certified counsellors provide personalised guidance at every step — from choosing the right university to visa lodgement. Book your free consultation today.