Applying for an overseas study visa may be daunting and overwhelming, but with proper preparation and instructions, it can be easier than what you imagine it to be. Students in India looking to study abroad can benefit from the guidance of advisors, who will help them understand student visa requirements and timelines to improve their chances of a successful application. Here’s a quick breakdown of the steps for the visa application process:
Step 1: Find an Offer and Your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
The first step towards achieving this goal is getting an unconditional offer from a licensed institution in a foreign country. In the UK, for example, you need a Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS), an electronic reference number that is necessary to apply for your visa.
Step 2: The Preparation of the Essential Documentation
You’ll need to gather:
- A valid travel document or passport.
- Your CAS (or equivalent)
- Evidence of English language proficiency (e.g. IELTS or similar)
- Evidence on academic qualification listed on your admission letter.
- New passport-size photographs.
- Evidence of finances- Demonstrating that you are able to cover the cost of tuition and you can sustain yourself. In the case of the UK, you would normally have to demonstrate that you possess enough finances to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
- Medical test reports (many countries require specific medical reports depending on the time and country of residence)
Step 3: Online Visa Application
The majority of countries have made online application submission a requirement for students. The application form requires information about your background, funding, accommodation, and course. While submitting your application, you will need to pay a visa fee, which varies depending on the country you want to go to.
Step 4: Pay Health Surcharge (where necessary)
Some countries, like the UK, may require you to pay a health surcharge which you have to pay before the biometrics appointment. You can check with your abroad education consultants in India to know if this is applicable.
Step 5: Complete Your Biometric Appointment
Once you book your appointment, go to a visa application centre and give your fingerprints and photograph. In many centres, you can also purchase “premium” services, such as document scanning or SMS updates.
Step 6: Wait for the Decision
Processing times vary, but for popular destinations such as the UK, a decision usually arrives within three weeks if applying from outside the country, or up to eight weeks if applying from within.
Step 7: Pick up and verify your Visa
Upon your approval, you will be issued a vignette sticker or an electronic visa. Confirm that everything is accurate. In some destinations, you might be required to register there.
Common Questions and Tips
- If your visa is denied, you will be given a statement of that. You can request, if not given, or reapply if possible.
- Dependants are usually only allowed for students studying for a PhD or other doctoral qualification or a research-based higher degree.
- Ensure that all the transcripts and certificates you have are translated into English (where necessary).
The visa procedure is important and the requirements may vary across nations and even among intakes. That is why you need to get guidance from reliable abroad education consultants in India like Fateh Education, who can assist in foreseeing the pitfalls and overcoming them, as well as explaining the funding and the document requirements, and guide you to meet deadlines and appointments, to make the process simpler.
