Standard Visitor Visa
Last updated: 16/12/2025 14:16
The Standard Visitor Visa allows individuals to study in the UK for up to 6 months.
This is classified in the following categories:
- Students enrolled in distance learning courses who need to attend the university for an examination or participate in a short course lasting fewer than six months, and who do not intend to work in the UK
- International Exchange students studying at Cardiff University for one semester (less than 6 months) who do not wish to work or volunteer while in Cardiff. You can find out more about what studying abroad in Cardiff is like for international exchange students
- Students participating in the English for University Study Programme for 6 months, who do not plan to work in the UK
- Students conducting a brief research project relevant to their overseas course
- Students taking an entrance exam, retaking an exam or course module, or completing a PhD oral examination (viva)
Further details on permitted study can be found online at Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor: Visit to study - GOV.UK
If you are a non-visa national, including EU, EEA, or Swiss nationals without permission under the EU Settlement Scheme, you do not need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa in advance, though you can do so if you wish. However, you will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel.
We advise carrying copies of the supporting documents listed below with you when you enter the UK, as evidence of your reason for travel can be requested by Border Force.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a requirement that has now been extended to nationals who have previously not required any clearance before travel.
Visa nationals must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa before travel. The exception is a limited number of nationals able to apply for an ETA. Please see our ETA information.
A letter detailing your programme of study will be provided to you by our Student Visa Compliance Team. This is required to apply for your Standard Visitor visa.
Your application must be using the online application form. The Home Office lists the supporting documents you should provide as part of your application. Read this carefully before submitting your application.
For study, these documents include but are not limited to:
- A valid passport or travel document. Your passport should be valid for the whole of your stay and contain a blank page for your visa.
- Evidence of your onward or return travel out of the UK after your studies
- Your Cardiff University standard visitor visa letter
- Financial evidence. There is no fixed financial amount to be evidenced for this route, but you must show that you have sufficient funds for your trip. We recommend using the amounts for the Student Route Visa as a guideline. This is the full tuition fees (if applicable), plus £1,171 per month for each month you are going to be in the UK to cover your accommodation and living expenses.
- If your course requires ATAS clearance, you will need to obtain your certificate before you are permitted to enrol on your course. We recommend preparing this well in advance and preferably before proceeding with your visa application.
Ensure you read all information, including the UKVI direct guidance, and prepare carefully.
e-Passport gates
Nationals of the following countries and those from the EU/EEA are eligible to use the e-Gates at UK ports of entry when visiting the UK
- Australia
- Canada
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- South Korea
- USA
Check if you need an ETA, as this is still needed if using the eGates. If you enter in this way, your passport will not be stamped on entry.
You must retain evidence of entry, for instance, your boarding pass, to enrol on your course and receive your student ID card.
Contact us
Our offices are open from 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday.