What are the key things to consider before applying for a student visa?

• Make sure you understand both what the visa rules are, and how the visa application process works. This is available on the UK Visas website.
• We know that many students find it difficult to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds for their stay in the UK. This is very important to get right. It goes without saying that you should only submit documents that are genuine and verifiable.
• Make sure you complete the application form as accurately and as clearly as possible. The new application form which was introduced recently should be easier to complete on-line and will enable us to make decisions more easily.
• Finally, leave plenty of time to get your visa. It’s often not very high up the ‘to do’ list when preparing to go to the UK, but if it’s left to the last minute then it can delay things. Although the visa process itself is quick, remember that lots of students tend to want their visas at the same time. In Nigeria, I’d recommend you apply for a student visa at least 8 weeks before the course is due to start, or at least 12 weeks in the busy summer season. The actual processing time for a student visa in Nigeria is currently one week.
• Guidance to students on how they qualify and what they need to do to get a visa can be found on the UK visas website:
• Finally, NO visa system in the world is perfect, so if you were unfortunately refused and you believe your application was not adjudged on its merits then you can reapply or exercise your right to appeal!