Master of Science [M.Sc] [Food Science] From London Metropolitan University

Travelers to the UK may need a visa and should choose the correct visa route based on their primary purpose for visiting. To study in the UK, a standard visitor visa is not suitable. Prospective students should obtain either a Student visa (previously Tier 4) or a short-term study visa. A standard visitor visa is appropriate for those coming to the UK to attend an interview for a place on a course at London Met. However, this visa does not permit staying in the UK to begin studies.

Student Visa

• Moving to London to study is exciting but requires thorough preparation, including applying for a student visa and obtaining a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
• The Sponsored Student visa route is mainly for full-time courses, though some part-time courses are permissible.
• Part-time study on a student visa is only available for postgraduate study at RQF Level 7 or above; undergraduate degrees cannot be studied part-time on a student visa.
• Part-time students on a student visa cannot participate in work placements through or at the University, limiting course options if a work placement is essential.
• Part-time students on a student visa cannot work in their free time or bring dependants, so they must be prepared to fund their studies without working in the UK.

Standard Visitor Visa - For study

• For courses lasting six months or less, or for re-sitting exams, students need to come to the UK as a 'visitor'.
• With a standard visitor visa, students cannot study courses longer than six months unless it's an English language course, and they must leave the UK before the visa expires without the option for extension or switching to another visa type.
• Students on a standard visitor visa cannot work, bring dependents, marry, or register a civil partnership in the UK.
• Advantages include no need for full-time study, no minimum course level or qualification requirements, and no minimum English language level.
• To apply, students should complete the online application, provide necessary documents such as a passport, evidence of an unconditional offer, proof of finances, and, if required, an ATAS certificate for postgraduate study.

Standard visitor visa - for family and friends

General Information

• Standard visitors can stay in the UK for up to six months within a 12-month period.
• Suitable for holidays, attending graduations, or short visits.
• Cannot extend visa or work/study if the primary purpose is study, but study up to 30 days is permitted in some cases.

Visa Requirements

• Must show intent to return home by the end of the six-month period.
• Nationals of countries on the visa national list must apply for a General Visitor visa before traveling.
• Applications can be made online via the Gov.uk website, except for North Koreans who must apply in person.
• Application can be made from any country, not just the home country.
• Non-visa national countries can apply on arrival or before traveling; the latter is recommended.

Family Visits

• Family members can apply for Standard Visitor visas to attend graduation ceremonies.
• Provide an official invitation with the visa application.
• Check the award ceremonies page for details.

Applying for Visa on Arrival

• Show documents like proof of sufficient funds, purpose of visit, accommodation, and intent to leave at the end of the visit.

Applying for Entry Clearance

• Required documents include a current passport, evidence of sufficient funds, return travel arrangements, invitation letter, and accommodation details.
• Some countries require a tuberculosis test certificate for stays over six months.

Length of Visa

• Valid for multiple entries; each stay up to six months.
• Can be valid from six months to 10 years for repeat visits.

Medical Insurance

• Visitors staying less than six months are not entitled to NHS services.
• Purchase travel insurance covering medical costs before traveling.