STUDENT VISAS FOR OVERSEAS STUDENTS

This information is issued for guidance purposes only and should not be considered to replace any information issued by your local British Visa Application Office.

It is a requirement of the UK Immigration Authorities that citizens of a number of countries must hold a visa to study full time in the UK. We advise all students to contact their nearest British Embassy or Consulate to determine whether they fall into this category. If a visa is required a student should not travel to the UK in order to begin his or her course without first obtaining the necessary pre-entry clearance.

Once students have been accepted to begin a course at London School of Business and Management they should contact their nearest visa application office in order to:

• Determine whether a visa is required.
• Find out if applications can be made by post or must be made in person.
• Find out if they are required to have medical clearance as part of the visa application process.

If applications can be made by post you will be sent an application form and a list of documents that you are required to send in support of your application. However, it is very common that when applying for a study visa a personal interview is required. If this is the case we advise that you arrange your appointment at least several weeks (earlier if possible) ahead of your proposed start date in London. Many visa offices have large numbers of visa applications and these can take time to process.

When attending an interview you will be asked for some or all of the following documents and we advise that you go prepared with all of these to save time and the need for a return visit:

• Passport.
• Passport photos (take three).
• Visa application fee amount will be advised by your local office.
• A letter from LSBM confirming your acceptance and stating your course, duration of course and confirming your full time status.
• Proof that you have paid your fees, or have the ability to pay your fees for the course.
• Proof that you can pay for your general expenses including accommodation while in London for the period of time you are studying.
• An address where you will be staying in the UK if this is available.
• Test scores in English or ability to demonstrate that you have studied English to pre-university level; or
• OR Confirmation that you are taking an LSBM English language support programme should be provided.
• Original or certified copies of your academic qualifications as provided to LSBM
• Proof of financial resources must include bank statements from you, your parents or sponsor and in the event that your fees and expenses are being paid by a parent or sponsor, a letter from that person confirming this fact.

Remember: It is better to apply with too much rather than too little information. Read the instructions on your visa application form very carefully before making your application.

ARRIVAL AT UK IMMIGRATION POINTS

Although you have pre-entry clearance, you will still be passing through immigration controls when you enter the UK. It is advisable therefore to carry with you, in your hand-luggage, the same documentation as listed for your initial visa application. The officer may ask to see this and may ask questions in connection with your study in the UK. The officer may also ask for contact details of your place of study in order to ascertain that you are enrolled at LSBM and due to begin your course at this time. Make sure you have these details to hand in case they are required.

 

WORKING IN THE UK

If you qualify as a full time student (that is, you are in class for at least 15 hours per week), you have a student visa, and are staying for longer than 6 months, you are usually permitted to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week, as long as you are enrolled at College. You can also work full time during vacation periods provided you are enrolled to return to College after the break. However, if your attendance records show that you have been missing class and thus are in violation of your "Full time" status, your right to work and student visa status will be revoked. The school is in regular contact with the British Home Office regarding student violations of their student standing.

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