From your first CAS to the Graduate route and beyond — the full student journey, with the fees and timing rules that decide it.
Student · Child Student · Extensions · Graduate route.
Reviewed by the Morgan Smith Immigration team — IAA-regulated UK immigration specialists. Last reviewed 2026-07-20.
TL;DR
The Student Visa costs £558 with a discounted health surcharge of £776 per year; degree-level students can stay up to 5 years. After an eligible course, the Graduate route gives 2–3 years of unsponsored work for £937.
£558
Student visa fee
£776/yr
Student health surcharge
2–3 years
Graduate route after study
The Student Journey
Each stage, in order.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about for students in 2026.
How much is a UK student visa in 2026?
£558, plus the discounted student health surcharge of £776 per year and evidence of course fees and living costs (£1,529 per month in London, £1,171 outside, up to 9 months).
Can I work while studying in the UK?
Usually yes, within limits set by your course level and sponsor — but not self-employment or professional sport. Working hours differ in term time and vacations.
What happens after my course ends?
Most graduates move to the Graduate route — £937 for 2 years (3 with a PhD) of unsponsored work — or switch directly to Skilled Worker with a sponsored job offer.
Can my family join me as a student?
Only in limited cases — dependant rights are restricted for most taught courses. Postgraduate research students have more scope; check before planning.
When should I extend my student visa?
Apply from inside the UK no earlier than 3 months before the new course starts, before your current visa expires — and the new course must begin within 28 days of that expiry.
Can Morgan Smith Immigration help with student visas?
Yes — students, parents and education providers all use us: CAS issues, refusals, extensions, dependants and the switch into work routes.
Sources
Legal information on this page is based on guidance from GOV.UK, the UK Home Office / UK Visas and Immigration, legislation.gov.uk, and Free Movement. Rules change frequently — speak to our team to confirm current requirements.
Study in Britain, Properly
CAS to Graduate route — every step handled by regulated advisers.