Studying Abroad Made Simple: A Complete Guide to UK, US, and Australian Student Visas
Planning to study abroad is exciting—but navigating the visa process can be overwhelming.
Each country has its own rules, fees, and processes. This guide provides a clear, side-by-side
comparison of student visa requirements for three of the most popular study destinations: the
United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia. Whether you’re applying for your first visa
or exploring post-study work options, this guide will help you understand what to expect.
1. United Kingdom: Student Visa (Tier 4)
Who Can Apply?
If you’re 16 or older and have been accepted into a course at a licensed student sponsor in the
UK, you can apply for a UK Student visa. You'll also need to:
Prove your English language skills through an approved test (unless exempt).
Show evidence of funds to support yourself and pay for tuition.
Provide written consent from parents if you’re under 18.
When to Apply
From outside the UK: Up to 6 months before your course begins.
From inside the UK (for extension or switching): Up to 3 months before your course.
Processing Time
Usually 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
Up to 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK.
Visa Duration
Degree-level courses: Up to 5 years.
Below degree-level: Up to 2 years.
Cost
Application Fee: £490 (as of 2024).
Healthcare Surcharge (IHS): Approximately £470 per year.
Work Rights
Up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Full-time during holidays.
Certain internships and placements are allowed.
Bringing Family
If you’re studying a postgraduate course (9+ months) or sponsored by a government,
you can bring dependents (spouse/children). They must apply separately and meet financial requirements.
2. United States: F-1 and M-1 Student Visas
Visa Types
F-1 Visa: For academic and language training programs.
M-1 Visa: For vocational or technical courses.
Who Can Apply?
To apply, you must:
Be accepted into a SEVP-approved school in the U.S.
Receive Form I-20 from the school.
Register with SEVIS and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
Show proof of financial capability and intent to return home after your studies.
How to Apply
1 Complete the DS-160 visa application form online.
2. Pay the application and SEVIS fees.
3. Schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
4. Attend the interview and provide supporting documents (passport, I-20, proof of funds,
etc.).
Processing Time
Varies by country and embassy wait times.
Visa interview and processing usually take 2–6 weeks.
Visa Duration
Duration is typically tied to the course length listed on your I-20.
Includes a grace period (e.g., 60 days for F-1 holders after course completion).
Cost
Application Fee (DS-160): $185 USD.
SEVIS Fee: $350 USD (for F-1/M-1 applicants).
Work Rights
F-1 students:
On-campus jobs: Up to 20 hours/week during school terms.
o Off-campus work (CPT or OPT) may be available after one year of study.
M-1 students:
Employment is more restricted; typically limited to practical training after course
completion.
Bringing Family
Eligible to bring dependents (F-2 or M-2 visas).
Dependents can study part-time but cannot work.
3. Australia: Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Who Can Apply?
You are eligible for a Subclass 500 visa if you:
Have been accepted into a full-time course listed on CRICOS.
Have received a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
Can demonstrate sufficient financial means.
Hold adequate health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover – OSHC).
Meet health and character requirements.
Application Process
1. Gather documents (CoE, passport, health cover, financial proof, etc.).
2. Apply online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
3. Complete a health check (if required).
4. Attend an interview (if requested).
Visa Duration
Typically aligned with the duration of your course.
May include additional months for graduation preparation.
Cost
Application Fee: AUD 1,600 (as of July 2024).
Additional charges may apply for dependents.
Work Rights
Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during your course.
Unlimited hours during course breaks.
Spouses of postgraduate students may work full-time.
Bringing Family
You can include your spouse or partner and dependent children in your application.
Dependents may study and work under specific conditions.
Post-Study Options
Each country offers different pathways for staying after graduation:
UK: Graduate Route allows up to 2 years (3 for PhD graduates) post-study stay.
USA: Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows 1 year post-graduation; STEM students
may extend up to 3 years.
Australia: Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) allows 2–4 years post-study work
based on qualification and location.
Conclusion
Studying abroad can be life-changing, and understanding the visa process is key to making it
happen smoothly. While each country has unique requirements, being prepared with the right
documents, understanding deadlines, and knowing your rights as a student can make the
journey much easier. Whether you're dreaming of London, New York, or Sydney, a well-planned
visa application is your first step toward global education.