If you require general visa and immigration information for non-students, visit our dedicated Visa and Immigration page.
Following the UK’s exit from the EU, students from the EU and the EEA including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, who arrive in the UK from 1 January 2021 will need to apply for a visa to study in the UK. The UK Government website provides an introduction for EU students on the UK points-based immigration system. There are also helpful FAQs and reference pages provided by Universities UK International, Study UK and UKCISA, all are updated regularly with the latest information for EU students.
Students from all other countries outside the EU will need to apply for a visa to study in Scotland.
The UK Government manages visas and immigration in Scotland and are the best place to visit for up to date information on visa requirements and information about applying for visas.
What type of visa will I need?
The type of visa you’ll need apply will depend on the type of course you’re studying, the length of time you’re studying for and your age.
The categories below will help you to find out what type of visa you should apply for.
Student Visa (formerly Tier 4)
This category covers the majority of international students looking to study an undergraduate or postgraduate course in Scotland.
Child Student Visa
Between the ages of 4 and 17 years old you can apply for a Child Student visa if you are coming to the UK to study at an independent fee paying school.
Graduate Route
The Graduate route opened for applications on 1 July 2021. Visit the UK Government page to find out more information about Graduate visa eligibility, how to apply, accessing your immigration stats (eVisa) and conditions of the route.
This is a post-study work visa that allows those who have a degree or other relevant qualification awarded by an approved UK Higher Education provider to work or look for work after their studies for a maximum period of two years, or three years for those with a PhD or doctoral qualification.
Covid-19: The UK government had previously given concessions to students who were impacted by Covid-19 travel restrictions. For the latest advice, we recommend checking out the UK Government's dedicated page, which will have the most up to date information.
Innovator Founder visa
Under the Innovator Founder visa route, entrepreneurs can come to Scotland to set up and run new, innovative, viable and scalable businesses. You will need to apply for an endorsement from a Home Office-approved endorsing body, and you may also be invited by the endorsing body to pitch your unique and exciting business ideas. The endorsing body will assess that your business has enough funds and that your ideas are cutting-edge and will generate growth and jobs. Visas under this route usually last up to three years. Find out more about Innovator Founder visa eligibility.
Short Term Study Visa
You can apply for a short-term study visa if you’re doing a short course of study in the UK, such as an English language course, a training course or a short period of research. On a short-term study visa there are restrictions on your ability to work (including work placement and work experience) or carry out any business.
Standard Visitor Visa
You can apply for a Standard visitor visa if you want to study in the UK for up to 30 days (as long as it’s not the main reason for your visit) and if you want to take part in an exchange programme or educational visit (if you’re under 18).
Resources for EU Students
Universities UK International, Study UK and UKCISA provide up-to-date information on how to apply for EU students. These resources include helpful FAQs and guidance for prospective students.
Find out more on the UK points-based immigration system: EU student information at gov.uk
Universities UK International FAQs for EU students
Universities UK International FAQs for EEA and EFTA students