Requirements to Work and Study in the UK for Foreigners

The United Kingdom (UK) is a globally recognized hub for quality education and career advancement. It attracts thousands of international students and skilled professionals each year. For foreigners aiming to study and work in the UK, it is essential to understand the processes, legal requirements, and opportunities available. This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know about the requirements to study and work in the UK as a foreign national, including visa types, eligibility, financial proofs, permitted work conditions, and post-study opportunities.

1. Why Study and Work in the UK?

The UK offers a unique combination of historic educational institutions, vibrant culture, and global business networks, making it a top destination for foreigners.

Academic Excellence

The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, including;

Cultural Diversity

With international students from over 180 countries, the UK is one of the most multicultural places in the world.

Work Opportunities

The UK provides flexible work rights for international students and multiple skilled worker routes post-graduation.

Pathway to Settlement

Graduates can transition to skilled worker visas and eventually apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or British citizenship.

2. Types of UK Visas for Foreigners

Before entering the UK, foreigners must secure the appropriate visa depending on their purpose of stay.

Student Visa (formerly Tier 4)

This visa allows international students to live and study in the UK.

Skilled Worker Visa

This visa enables foreigners to work for UK-based employers who hold a sponsorship licence.

Graduate Route

This post-study visa allows international graduates to stay and work in the UK for 2–3 years without sponsorship.

3. Requirements to Study in the UK as a Foreigner

Admission to a Recognized Institution

You must receive an unconditional offer from a UK institution licensed by the Home Office as a Student Sponsor.

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

After accepting your offer, the institution will issue a CAS number, which is mandatory for your visa application.

Academic Requirements

You need to meet the academic entry requirements of the institution, such as:

A-levels or equivalent qualifications
Bachelor’s degree for postgraduate programs
Professional qualifications where applicable

English Language Proficiency

You must demonstrate English skills through approved tests:

IELTS (minimum 6.0–6.5 for most courses)
TOEFL
PTE Academic
Some exemptions apply if you are from an English-speaking country.

Proof of Financial Means

You must prove you can support yourself and pay for your course:

Tuition fees for one academic year (average £10,000–£20,000/year)
Living costs: £1,334/month in London or £1,023/month outside London (for up to 9 months)

Health and TB Test

You must undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test if you’re from certain countries. This must be conducted at a UK-approved clinic.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

All international students must pay the IHS as part of their visa application, which grants access to the National Health Service (NHS).

4. Applying for a UK Student Visa

When to Apply

You can apply up to 6 months before your course starts. The visa is usually processed within 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.

How to Apply

Apply online through the UK Government website
Upload required documents and pay fees
Book and attend a biometric appointment

Required Documents

Valid passport
CAS number
Academic certificates
Proof of English language proficiency
Bank statements showing proof of funds
TB test certificate (if applicable)
IHS payment receipt

5. Working in the UK While Studying

The UK Student Visa permits part-time work under specific conditions.

Work Hour Restrictions

Up to 20 hours per week during term time
Full-time during holidays

Types of Jobs Allowed

On-campus roles (library, student union)
Hospitality (restaurants, hotels)
Retail
Internships and placements (if part of your course)

Prohibited Work

Self-employment
Full-time permanent positions
Professional sports or entertainment roles

National Insurance Number (NIN)

You must apply for an NIN to work legally in the UK. Apply online or by phone once you arrive.

6. Internship and Placement Requirements

Many UK courses, especially at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, include work placements or internships.

Eligibility

Your course must be offered by a licensed student sponsor
The placement must be an assessed and integral part of the course

Visa Condition

Your work placement must not exceed 50% of the total course length unless:

It’s a UK NARIC-accredited degree
The course is mandated by law (e.g., medicine, engineering)

7. Requirements to Work in the UK After Studying

Graduate Route Visa

This visa allows graduates to remain in the UK for:

2 years after completing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
3 years after completing a PhD

Requirements:

Completed a UK degree at a licensed sponsor
Valid Student Visa at the time of application
Apply within 3 months of receiving course results

No job offer is required, and work is unrestricted (including self-employment).

Skilled Worker Visa (formerly Tier 2)

A long-term work visa for individuals offered jobs by UK employers.

Requirements:

Job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
Minimum salary threshold: £26,200/year or £10.75/hour
English language skills
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Eligible roles include:

IT professionals
Health and care workers
Engineers
Accountants
Teachers

8. Financial Requirements

Tuition Fees

Undergraduate: £10,000 – £20,000/year
Master’s: £12,000 – £25,000/year
MBA: £20,000 – £40,000/year

Living Expenses

London: ~£1,334/month
Outside London: ~£1,023/month

Additional Costs

Visa fee: £490 (as of 2025)
IHS: £776/year (may change yearly)
Books, transportation, insurance, etc.

9. Scholarships and Financial Aid

There are many scholarships available for international students:

UK Government Scholarships

Chevening Scholarships—for global leaders
Commonwealth Scholarships—for students from Commonwealth nations
GREAT Scholarships—offered to students from specific countries

University Scholarships

University of Oxford—Clarendon Fund
University of Edinburgh—Global Scholarships
Imperial College London—President’s PhD Scholarships

External Scholarships

British Council
Rotary International
Fulbright (for US citizens)

10. Accommodation and Living Arrangements

University Accommodation

Most universities provide first-year students with the option of campus housing. Rent usually includes bills.

Private Rentals

You may choose to live off-campus in shared housing or private flats. Use trusted websites like:

SpareRoom
Rightmove
Zoopla

Documents required:

Valid ID
Proof of student status
Guarantor or advance rent payment

11. Healthcare and Insurance

NHS Access

All visa holders who pay the IHS can access NHS services. This includes:

GP services
Hospital treatment
Mental health support

Additional Insurance

Some students also take private health insurance for faster appointments or specific coverage.

12. Settling in the UK

Open a Bank Account

After arrival, open a UK bank account with:

Passport
Student letter from university
Proof of address

Register with a GP

After arriving, register with a local doctor (GP) to access healthcare services.

Transportation

Use discounted student cards:

18+ Student Oyster card (London)
National Railcards
Bus passes

13. Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge	Solution
Culture shock	Join student communities, attend cultural events
Weather (cold winters)	Invest in warm clothing and heating appliances
Academic pressure	Utilize university support services like counseling and study centers
Part-time job search	Use job boards like Indeed, StudentJob, university career portals
Visa extension complexities	Consult immigration advisors early before visa expiration

BRIEF CHECKLIST

Here is a brief checklist of what you need to work and study in the UK:

Before Arrival:

Unconditional offer from a licensed UK institution
CAS number
Valid passport
Proof of funds
IELTS/TOEFL certificate
TB test (if applicable)
Student Visa application
IHS payment

After Arrival:

Collect BRP card (Biometric Residence Permit)
Open a bank account
Apply for National Insurance Number
Register with a GP
Attend university orientation
Start part-time job (if desired)

REQUIREMENTS TO WORK AND STUDY IN THE UK FOR FOREIGNERS