Each year, thousands of international students apply for a visa to study in the United Kingdom. There is no upper limit on the number of student visas that can be issued.

Once you’ve decided what to study, you need to consider entry dates, application deadlines, UK student visa deadlines and English language requirements. The main intake is in September each year, though many universities have a smaller intake in January. If you wish to begin your course in September, keep in mind that the application deadline is in June, so make sure you have submitted all of your application documents well in advance of your cutoff date.

When applying for your visa, you must make sure that you qualify. The UK visa requirements are subject to change, but you will generally need an unconditional offer letter from your chosen university, as well as proof of funds to cover course fees and living expenses. Another thing to remember is that most courses have their own language requirements, so you may have to show evidence of your language skills. The preferred English language test is IELTS, though you will be able to find out more about this from your chosen university.

(Updated till 1st June 2010)