Entry requirements and visa advice
We understand that process to study with an overseas university can be complex so we have prepared some guidance to support you.
The information in the sections below will help you through the application and visa requirements to study in the UK with UHI, and beyond as you embark on your career.
If you still have questions after browsing our guidance, please get in touch with us on international@uhi.ac.uk for further help and advice.
Is the course I'm interested in open to international students?
Is the course I'm interested in open to international students?
On-campus in Scotland
If you require a Student Route Visa to study in the UK, you should only apply to courses that fit the eligibility rules set out by the UK Visas and Immigration Office. For example, undergraduate study must be undertaken full-time, not part-time, and studied mostly in person.
Check our list of approved on-campus courses to make sure the course you are interested in is approved for Student Route Visa.
If you believe you do not require a Student Route Visa to study on-campus in the UK, please contact our International Office for guidance.
Online from abroad
Most of our online courses are open to international applicants, however there are exceptions.
Explore our extensive list of online courses approved for international students.
What visa do I require?
What visa do I require?
Students from outside the UK are required to apply for a visa to study in Scotland, unless you have a visa to stay in the UK for another purpose that allows you to study, such as a dependant visa or an ancestry visa.
- The Check if You Need a UK Visa Tool on the UKVI website provides guidance on visa options and application processes.
- Information for Ukrainian Refugee Applicants
Students from the EU, EEA or Switzerland
EU, EAA and Switzerland nationals entering the UK after 1 January 2021 are required to apply for a study visa. Those with settled or pre-settled status in the UK do not require a visa to study.
How do I apply for a visa?
How do I apply for a visa?
You will need to complete the UKVI’s online visa application.
Download: How to apply for your UK Student Visa
Download: UKVI FAQs for Student Visas
If you are applying from outside the UK, you can only apply for your visa after receiving an unconditional offer and up to six months before the start of your course but not any earlier. If you are applying from within the UK, it is up to three months before the start of your course.
Mistakes with funds and supporting documents are the most common reasons for visa refusal. If you have any questions please contact the admissions staff who issued your offer letter before visa application submission.
As there are regular changes in immigration and visa rules, we strongly recommend that you follow the guidance provided on the UKVI website, as it will provide you with the best and most up-to-date advice on how and where to apply for your visa:
How do I receive my CAS number to apply for my visa?
How do I receive my CAS number to apply for my visa?
The university admissions team will apply to UKVI for your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number, confirming that we have made you an Unconditional Offer of a study place and that you have accepted our offer.
UKVI will issue a CAS to the the university admissions team, who will then forward it on to you. Please note that your CAS is not the same as your UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) number.