Child Student Visa for the UK
Secure Your Child's Future at a Top UK School. The UK offers some of the world's best private and independent schools, providing a safe and enriching environment for young learners.
1. Who Can Apply?
The UK Child Student Visa is designed for international students aged 4 to 17 who want to study at a UK private or independent school.
| Age Group | Visa Type |
|---|---|
| 4–17 years | Child Student Visa |
| 16–17 years | May also qualify for the Standard Student Visa (if studying a higher-level course) |
⚠️ Key Requirement: The CAS Letter
Before applying for a visa, your child must have an unconditional offer from a licensed UK independent school. The school will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number, which is mandatory for the visa application.
2. Financial Requirements & Proof of Funds
Demonstrating you can support your child's education. You must prove you have enough money to pay for the course and support your child's living costs.
💰 Tuition Fees
- • Must show enough funds to cover the first academic year
- • For boarding schools → boarding fees + tuition
🏠 Living Costs
Depends on where the child will live (boarding school, parent, or foster care)
Living Costs by Arrangement
| Living Arrangement | Financial Proof Required |
|---|---|
| Boarding School | Full boarding fees for one academic year |
| Living with a Parent | £1,560 per month (for up to 9 months) |
| Additional Child | Add £625 per month for each additional child |
| Private Foster Care | Evidence of UK local authority approval required |
3. Accommodation Rules by Age
Ensuring your child's safety and compliance. UK visa rules regarding where a child can live are strict and vary by age.
Aged 4 – 15
- ✓Must live in a Boarding School
- ✓Must live with a parent (on a Parent Visa)
- ✓Must live with a recognized private foster carer
Aged 16 – 17
- ✓All of the above options
- ✓Can live independently (with written parental consent and school approval)
WPC Global ensures your child's accommodation meets UK visa rules.
4. Other Visa Requirements
Simplifying the checklist for you. We handle the details so you don't have to worry.
No English Test Needed
Unlike adult visas, child students generally do not need to prove English proficiency (schools assess this internally)
TB Test
Students from countries where TB screening is required (including many in the MENA region) must provide a valid medical certificate
Valid Passport
Must be valid for the duration of the intended travel
Visa Fees & IHS
Must be paid during application
5. Can Parents Travel With Their Child?
Yes, one parent can stay in the UK with the child.
We understand that sending a young child abroad is a big step. The UK visa system allows for parental support:
👨👩👧 Parent of a Child Student Visa
One parent can live in the UK to accompany the child
✈️ Visitor Visa
For older children (or the second parent), you can visit anytime using a Standard Visitor Visa (up to 6 months per visit)
This ensures your child has full support while studying in the UK.
From School Placement to Final Visa Approval
WPC Global supports families at every step:
School Recommendations
CAS Assistance
Financial Guidance
Visa Application
Accommodation Support
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Child Student Visa?▼
A Child Student Visa (previously known as Tier 4 Child Student Visa) is designed for children aged 4-17 who want to study at an independent school in the UK. This visa allows young students to come to the UK for their education while ensuring they have the proper legal status to remain in the country for the duration of their studies.
What are the age requirements for a Child Student Visa?▼
The Child Student Visa is specifically for children aged between 4 and 17 years old. Children must not turn 18 during their course, or if they do turn 18, they must switch to a Student Visa before their 18th birthday to continue their studies.
What documents are required for a Child Student Visa application?▼
Required documents include: • Valid passport • Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your school • Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters) • Consent letter from parents/guardians • Birth certificate • Academic transcripts and qualifications • English language proficiency evidence (if required) • Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries) • Biometric information
How much does a Child Student Visa cost?▼
The current visa application fee is £490 if applying from outside the UK. Additionally, you'll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year of your visa. There may also be additional costs for biometric appointments, document translation, and courier services.
How long does it take to process a Child Student Visa?▼
Processing times vary by country: • From most countries: Up to 3 weeks • Priority service: Available in some countries for faster processing • Super priority service: Where available, decisions within 24-48 hours We recommend applying well in advance of your intended travel date to avoid any delays.
Can parents accompany their child on a Child Student Visa?▼
Parents cannot automatically accompany their child. However, they may be eligible to apply for a Parent Visa if their child is under 12 years old and studying at an independent school. Parents of children aged 12 and over typically cannot get a Parent Visa and would need to explore other visa options if they wish to accompany their child.
Start Your Child's UK Education Journey Today
Don't let paperwork stand in the way of your child's education. Contact WPC Global for a stress-free application process.