Visas and immigration

If you're not a UK or Republic of Ireland national, and you don't have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you may need a visa to study in the UK.

You can check whether you need a visa by answering a few short questions on GOV.UK. Most international students need to apply for a Student visa through what's known as the Student Route, a points-based immigration system for international students who want to study in the UK.

Applying for a Student visa can appear quite complex but we can guide you through every step of the process. You could be applying for a Student visa from overseas or looking to extend your current Student visa in the UK. Alternatively, if you'll only be studying in the UK for six months or less, you might need a Standard Visitor visa. 

Applying for your Student visa from overseas A group of students are sitting on the grass at Abercromby Square on a sunny day.

Applying for a Student visa from overseas

If you're applying for a course that's longer than six months, discover how to apply for a Student visa from overseas. We'll take you through the documents you need to prepare and what you need to do after receiving an offer of a place.

Extending your student visa in the UK Three students walking in University Square.

Extending your Student visa in the UK

If you're already in the UK and have a Student visa, you may be able to extend it from within the UK. This could be to progress to a higher level of study, transfer to a longer course, or because you need additional time to complete your current course.

Applying for a Standard Visitor visa A student walking through campus with a group of other students walking behind.

Applying for a Standard Visitor visa

If you'll be studying in Liverpool for six months or less, a Standard Visitor visa could enable you to join us for a short period of study, such as a semester studying abroad. Your friends or family may also need Standard Visitor visas to come and see you in Liverpool.

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) Mechanical engineering students undertaking practical work

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

If you've applied to study with us and accepted an offer of a place, you'll need to obtain a CAS statement before you can apply for a Student visa.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) An aerospace engineering student working in an aircraft.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

If you've applied to study certain areas of science, engineering or technology, you may need to obtain an ATAS certificate before you can apply for a Student visa.

A student and member of staff sitting together, talking and smiling.

International advice and guidance

If you have any questions about any aspect of the visa application process, our International Advice and Guidance team are here to help. Book a confidential online appointment or email iagteam@liverpool.ac.uk for expert advice.