Question:
I am a South African who is 23 years old. I would like to apply for a student visa later in the year, but I heard rumors that the student visa rules will change, is this true?

Answer:
Yes, the rules for applying for a student visa will change on the 31ste of March 2009. From 31 March 2009, all students must apply either as an adult student or a child student (under tier 4 of the points-based system).

For the adult Tier 4 student visa you need 40 points to be able to apply and must provide the proof needed with your application form.

You will get 30 points for doing a course (at an acceptable level) with an approved education provider (also known as sponsorship).

Education providers are approved by the Home Office when given, a licence to teach international students in the United Kingdom, and added to the tier 4 register of sponsors.  Once you have chosen an education provider to study with, you can check to see if they are on the tier 4 register of sponsors.  If the education provider is not on the register, you will not be able to get a student visa.

Having enough money to cover your course fees and monthly living costs (also known as maintenance) will be the other 10 points.

The money that you need to qualify for the Tier 4 student visa includes course fees and monthly living costs. The monthly living costs needed depends on where you are studying. Example: If you want a student visa for more than nine months, studying and living in London you must have the “First year fees and £7200 extra in your account to cover you in the UK”. The requirements are different if you live and study outside London.

Once you are approved you will get the visa for the full length of the course.