Child Student Visa
United Kingdom
Last updated: December 24, 2025
4 months
$735
3 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets children aged 4-17 study at private schools in the UK. You apply for the visa if you're the child (or your parents apply on your behalf). Unlike other UK visas, this one doesn't lead to permanent residence or citizenship—it's purely for studying. After your course ends, you must leave unless you switch to another visa type. The main benefit is that you get to attend elite UK independent schools. If you're aged 16-17, you can also work part-time during school and full-time during holidays. Your parents can apply for a separate "Parent of Child Student" visa to live with you (but only one parent, and they cannot work).
Key Benefits
- Study at elite private schools in the UK
- Work part-time (ages 16+): 10 hours/week during school term
- Work full-time during school holidays (ages 16+)
- NHS healthcare included through health surcharge
- Stay for extended period (up to 6 years)
- One parent can accompany (ages 4-11 only, if they apply for Parent visa)
- Travel freely in and out of UK during visa validity
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 4-17 years old
- Must have acceptance from licensed private/independent school (not state schools)
- Parents must give written permission
- Family must prove sufficient funds (amounts listed in financial requirements)
- May need TB test depending on country of origin
- No serious criminal record
- Must speak enough English for school courses
- Ages 16-17 only: UK government checks applicant is genuine student
- Must choose one: living with parents, boarding at school, with relative, foster carer, or nominated guardian
Financial Requirement
Living with parents: £1,560/month ($2,087 USD/month). Living with relative/foster carer: £570/month ($762 USD/month). Living alone ages 16-17 London: £1,334/month ($1,785 USD/month). Living alone ages 16-17 outside London: £1,023/month ($1,369 USD/month). Plus full school fees for one year. Money must be in bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying.
Documents
- Valid passportCurrent passport required
- School acceptance letterCalled CAS from licensed private/independent school
- Written permission from parents/guardiansBoth parents must provide written consent
- Proof of relationshipBirth certificate or government-issued document showing relationship to parents
- Bank statementsShowing available money with 28-day holding period
- TB test resultsRequired if from certain countries
- Living arrangement confirmationProof of where you will live in UK (parents home, school dorm, relative, foster carer, or nominated guardian)
- Guardian letterFor guardians/carers: detailed letter explaining who they are and criminal background information
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.