Visas for Students Under 18 Years

Excel English has been given Tier 4 Sponsor (formerly Highly Trusted Sponsor) status by the UK Border Agency.  Our sponsorship number is AMVYA5Y78.  We can provide information and the correct documentation to support your visa application to study at our school, but we are not licensed to give visa advice.

If you are aged under 18  and studying for a short course in London, you may need to apply for a Short-Term Study Visa (child).  Here is some information about this visa which may be helpful to you.

Note: As of 24 April 2015 the Short-Term Study Visa (child) has now replaced the Child Visitor Visa for study purposes. Click here to read more about the changes and this type of visa.


Details & Highlights

Do I need a Short-Term Study Visa (child) to study in the UK?

  • Are you from a country outside the European Union or European Economic Area?
  • Are you aged under 18 years?
  • Are you studying an English language course for less than 6 months?

If you answered ‘yes’ to all 3 questions, you need a Short-Term Study Visa (child) to study in the UK.

How can I apply for a Standard Visitor Visa?

Visit the UK Border Agency website for information, or ask your local Educational Consultant for advice.  The method for applying for a visa will depend on whether or not you are from a Visa National country

If you are a Visa National, you always need to apply for a visa to enter the UK before you travel.  Click here to find out if you are from a Visa National Country.  When you have paid your fees in full, Excel English will provide the documents you need as confirmation that you will study an English course while you are in the UK. You will also need written consent from your parents or guardians if you are travelling alone.

If you are a non-visa national, you may be able to apply for your Standard Visitor Visa on arrival in the UK.

Where can I find more information about UK Visas?

You should always check the UK Border Agency website for the latest guidance.