Visa information

If you need a visa to study in the UK, start by familiarising yourself with the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements as early as possible. This will help you avoid potential delays and ensure a smoother application process.

Student route visa applications

Find detailed guidance on the GOV.UK website about applying for a visa from your home country.

Apply for your student visa

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Immigration Health Surcharge

As part of your student visa application, you’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The NHS is the UK’s publicly funded healthcare system, providing essential medical services such as doctor's appointments, hospital care and emergency treatment.

The IHS is compulsory and costs £776 per year for students. The amount you pay depends on the length of your visa, not your course duration or where you apply from.

To calculate your Immigration Health Surcharge, use the official tool.

Check the medical requirements for your Visa

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Visa information you’ll need to register at RWCMD

All international students with a Student Route Visa must provide their visa share code, proof of entry into the UK (after visa start date) and proof of ID (such as your passport) on registration.

Additionally	International students with permission to study in the UK on an alternative visa route will also be required to provide their visa share code and complete a right to study check with the Immigration and International Advice team at the University of South Wales (USW). Please note that a right to study check must be completed annually.

Get your visa share code

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Useful resources for visa and Immigration

Immigration & International Student Advice (IISA) – RWCMD is part of the University of South Wales (USW), and the IISA team’s main area of expertise is in immigration law and rules. They can offer specialised advice and information for international students.

UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) – Up-to-date information about immigration, fees, student support, working and living in the UK for current and prospective international students.

Home Office – The UK Home Office website features information on UK Immigration control, working regulations and restrictions, and how to apply for an extension of your visa from within the UK.

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office - Useful information from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, which also provides contact information for UK embassies around the world.