The amount of time you can stay in the United Kingdom on a UK Student Visa depends on the type of course you are studying, your level of education, and whether you extend or switch your visa after completing your studies. This article explains how long you can remain in the UK on a student visa under current Home Office guidance (October 2025) and outlines your options for extension and post-study work.
Types of UK Student Visas
General Student Visa (Student Route)
If you intend to study for more than six months at a UK higher or further education institution, you must apply for the Student Route Visa (previously known as the Tier 4 Student Visa). The duration of your visa generally matches the length of your academic course plus a short additional period:
- Course duration of 12 months or more: You are usually granted up to four additional months after your course ends.
- Course duration between 6 and 12 months: You typically receive up to two extra months after the course end date.
- Pre-sessional courses: The visa will cover the course length only, with limited time to transition to a full student visa if continuing studies.
During your stay, you must maintain enrolment, attend classes, and meet the financial and English language requirements. For detailed evidence guidance, see UK Visa Supporting Documents – Digital Upload Guide.
Short-Term Study Visa
The Short-Term Study Visa is intended for courses lasting up to 6 months or, in specific cases, 11 months if studying English. This visa cannot be extended or switched from within the UK. It is mainly used for short courses such as English language training or professional development programmes.
Holders of the Short-Term Study Visa must leave the UK at the end of their authorised period and cannot work, extend, or bring dependants. If your course exceeds six months, you must apply for a full Student Visa instead.
Including Dependants
If you are studying a postgraduate course lasting nine months or more at a licensed UK higher education institution, you may bring dependants (spouse, partner, or children) with you to the UK. Their visas will usually last the same duration as yours. Each dependant must apply separately and meet maintenance and financial proof requirements. For guidance, see How Much Do I Need to Earn to Bring My Family to the UK?.
Extending Your Stay
You may be able to extend your stay if you wish to continue your studies or start a new course. Applications for extensions must be submitted before your current visa expires. Typical reasons for extension include:
- Progressing to a higher academic level (e.g., from undergraduate to master’s).
- Needing additional time to complete your existing course.
- Beginning a new course at a different institution.
For extension steps and timing, see How to Extend or Renew Your UK Visa.
After Your Studies: Graduate Visa
Once you complete your course, you may be eligible to stay longer in the UK under the Graduate Visa route. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years (or 3 years for doctoral graduates) without sponsorship.
After this period, you may be able to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa or another long-term immigration route if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Compliance and Visa Conditions
Student visa holders must comply with UK immigration rules throughout their stay. You must:
- Attend your registered course and maintain full-time enrolment.
- Work only within the permitted hours and restrictions.
- Update the Home Office on any changes to your institution or personal details.
Failing to meet these obligations may result in visa curtailment or cancellation. For eligibility advice, see What Are the New Rules for a Student Visa in the UK?.
Related Guidance
- How Do I Get a Study Visa for the UK?
- What Is the Cost of a UK Student Visa?
- What Is the Maximum Age for a UK Student Visa?
- UK Visa Fees 2025
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025