Receiving your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is a major milestone in your UK study journey. It confirms that a UK university or college has officially offered you admission and sponsorship for a Student visa. However, CAS is not the visa—you must still complete the UK Student Visa application successfully.
This blog explains everything you need to do after receiving your CAS, including documents, application steps, fees, timelines, and common mistakes to avoid.
CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is a unique reference number issued by a UK educational institution licensed by UKVI. It contains:
CAS number
Course details and duration
Tuition fees and payments made
Sponsor license number
Course start and end dates
You can apply for your UK Student Visa only after CAS is issued.
Before starting your visa application, verify that all information in your CAS is 100% accurate:
Full name (as per passport)
Passport number
Course title and level
Course start and end dates
Tuition fees and payments made
English language requirement status
👉 Any error must be corrected by the university before applying, as CAS details cannot be changed after visa submission.
Once CAS is confirmed, prepare the following documents:
Valid passport
CAS number
Academic certificates and transcripts
English language test result (IELTS/other, if required)
Proof of funds (bank statement)
TB test certificate (if applicable)
Passport-sized photograph
ATAS certificate (for certain courses)
You must show funds for:
Outstanding tuition fees (first year)
Living costs:
£1,334 per month for up to 9 months (London)
£1,023 per month for up to 9 months (outside London)
Funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before application.
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) allows you to access the NHS in the UK.
Cost: £776 per year (as of 2025)
Paid online during the visa application
IHS reference number is required to proceed
Apply online via the UK Government website.
You will:
Create an account
Fill in personal, academic, and travel details
Enter your CAS number
Upload supporting documents
Pay visa application fee
£490 (standard Student visa)
After payment, you must book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to:
Provide fingerprints
Submit a digital photograph
Upload or submit documents
Some centers offer priority or super-priority services at additional cost.
On the appointment day:
Carry your passport
Appointment confirmation
Original documents (if required)
Your biometrics will be collected and documents verified.
Standard processing time:
3 weeks (outside the UK)
Priority services:
Priority: 5 working days
Super Priority: Next working day (availability varies)
If approved, you will receive:
A visa vignette (sticker) in your passport (valid for 90 days)
A decision letter explaining visa conditions
You must travel to the UK within the vignette validity.
After arrival:
Collect your BRP from the designated post office or university (if applicable)
Or access your digital eVisa (UKVI is transitioning to digital status)
❌ Applying with incorrect CAS details
❌ Using funds that do not meet 28-day rule
❌ Submitting fake or unverifiable documents
❌ Applying too early (more than 6 months before course start)
❌ Not checking TB or ATAS requirements
Up to 6 months before course start date
Recommended: Apply within 7–14 days after CAS issuance
✔ Double-check all documents
✔ Maintain required funds properly
✔ Apply early to avoid delays
✔ Follow UKVI guidelines strictly
✔ Seek professional guidance if unsure
Receiving your CAS is only the beginning. A successful UK Student Visa application depends on accurate documents, proper finances, and careful submission. By following this step-by-step guide, you significantly improve your chances of visa approval and a smooth transition to studying in the UK.
