The end of the academic year in South Africa has arrived and students and matrics are holding their breath in anticipation of their final results. This is also the time of the year where the consultants at Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants receive a high number of queries on the possibility to study in the UK.

The United Kingdom is a very popular destination for young South Africans looking to study overseas. It is not difficult to understand why, and reasons include the following:

• There is a large South African diaspora in the UK, including students at many UK universities, amongst which the University of Edinburgh.
• The qualifications of British educational institutes are held in high esteem.
• It is relatively easy for South Africans to adapt to the English culture.
• Language is not a barrier.
• Travel time between the two countries is relatively short.

The process of applying to study in the UK

South Africans older than 16 may apply for the UK Tier 4 student visa. However, before applying, the student first have to get a place on a study course at a UK Tier 4 licensed education provider. This will be in the form of a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). This CAS is an offer of a place of study and is an electronic document with a unique reference number from the licensed UK education provider. Upon receiving the CAS, the prospective student can apply for the UK student visa.

The criteria to qualify for a UK student visa

To qualify for a UK Tier 4 (General) student visa, you have to meet the following criteria:

• Sufficient funds to pay for the study course and to support yourself. This amount differs depending on the course of study and the location of the educational institution.
• To the surprise of many South Africans, South Africa is not reckoned to be an English-speaking country by the UK Home Office. You thus have to meet an English language requirement. The level of English required will depend on the degree level of the studies. There are various ways to meet this requirement.

May I work while studying in the UK?

One of the first questions prospective students ask is whether they will be able to work in the UK to help pay for their studies. The Home Office rules state that a student receives a UK student visa to study in the UK. Students may only work to supplement their income. The rules on working on a student visa also differ and will depend on the type of study course, the type of educational sponsor, etc. The rule of thumb is that a student is limited to working 20 hours per week during term time. During vacations students may work full-time if studying at degree level or above. A student on a course below degree level is normally limited to 10 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations.

It is, of course, a wonderful opportunity for South Africans to study in the UK, obtain an international qualification, and expand their horizons. The process may, however, seem a bit daunting. Fortunately, our team of experts has assisted many young South Africans to realise their dreams of studying in the UK. If you want more information or need help to start the process, please contact us at info@bic-immigration.com. You can also read more about the UK student visa at https://bic-immigration.com/uk-immigration/tier-4-student-visa/