What is the UK Student Visa?
The Student Visa (formerly Tier 4 General) allows Kenyan students aged 16 and over to study at UK universities, colleges, and other educational institutions. It allows you to:
- Study full-time at a licensed sponsor institution
- Work part-time during term (usually 20 hours/week)
- Work full-time during holidays
- Stay in the UK for the duration of your course (plus extra time)
- Apply for Graduate Visa after completing studies
If you're just visiting the UK for a short course (under 30 days), you may be able to use a Standard Visitor Visa instead.
The CAS: Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies
The CAS is the most important document for your student visa. It's issued by your UK university or college after you:
- Accept an unconditional offer
- Pay any required deposit
- Meet all academic conditions
The CAS contains a unique reference number and details about:
- Your course name, level, and duration
- Tuition fees and what you've paid
- Your personal details
- Documents the university checked (e.g., your qualifications)
Important: You can only apply for the visa once you have your CAS number. The CAS is valid for 6 months.
Got your CAS but unsure about next steps? We can help you organize your financial documents and prepare your application. Book a consultation →
Financial Requirements
You must prove you can pay for your tuition fees and living costs. This is a major hurdle for Kenyan students.
Tuition Fees
Show you can pay the first year's fees (or any remaining fees stated on your CAS).
Living Costs (Maintenance)
- Studying in London: £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months = £12,006)
- Studying outside London: £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months = £9,207)
Evidence Required
- Bank statements showing funds held for 28 consecutive days
- Statement must be dated within 31 days of your application
- Funds can be in your account or a parent/guardian's account (with proof of relationship)
- Scholarship letters (if sponsored)
- Loan sanction letters from approved financial institutions
Kenyan Financial Evidence Tips
- Convert your funds to GBP using xe.com or oanda.com rates
- Include M-Pesa statements if relevant, but bank accounts are preferred
- Explain large deposits with source documentation
- If using a sponsor, provide their employment letter and relationship proof
English Language Requirement
You must prove English at CEFR Level B2 (undergraduate) or higher. Most Kenyan students use:
- IELTS Academic: 5.5-7.0 depending on your course (check your university's requirements)
- Pearson PTE Academic: Alternative to IELTS
- University's own test: Some universities assess English directly
Note: Even though Kenya uses English for education, this is not sufficient proof. You need a UKVI-approved English test.
Struggling with the financial requirements? Our experts can review your bank statements and advise on how to present them correctly. Get expert guidance →
TB Test for Kenyan Students
All Kenyan applicants for student visas must take a TB (Tuberculosis) test at IOM Nairobi.
- Location: IOM Kenya, Nairobi
- Cost: Approximately KES 8,000
- Validity: 6 months
- Booking: Book early – especially before intake seasons (August-September)
Biometrics at VFS Global
After completing your online application, book a biometrics appointment at:
- VFS Global Nairobi
- VFS Global Mombasa – for applicants in Coast region
You'll provide fingerprints and a photograph. Bring your passport and any original documents.
Proving Your Intent to Return (Ties to Kenya)
Unlike visitor visas, student visas focus more on your genuine intent to study. However, officers may still consider whether you'll return. Evidence of ties includes:
- Career plans in Kenya after graduation
- Family obligations (parents, spouse, children)
- Property or business interests
- Clear academic and career progression
The most important thing is showing you're a genuine student with a logical reason for choosing your course and university.
Working While Studying
The Student Visa allows limited work rights:
- During term: Up to 20 hours per week
- During holidays: Full-time work allowed
- Restrictions: Cannot be self-employed or work as a professional sportsperson
After Your Studies: Graduate Visa
After successfully completing your course, you may be eligible for the Graduate Visa:
- Duration: 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates)
- Work: Any job, any employer, any level
- No sponsorship required
This gives you time to find a Skilled Worker sponsor or gain UK work experience.
Application Timeline for Kenyan Students
- 3-6 months before: Apply to universities, get offers
- 2-3 months before: Accept offer, receive CAS
- 6 weeks before: Take TB test at IOM Nairobi
- 4-6 weeks before: Apply online, pay fees
- 3-4 weeks before: Book and attend biometrics at VFS Global
- 1-3 weeks: Wait for visa decision
- Travel: You can enter the UK up to 1 month before your course starts