Everything You Need to Know and How You Can Have A Successful Application

The UK remains one of the world’s most attractive destinations for international students. Each year, thousands of applicants apply under the formerly known Tier 4 (General) Student route, now part of the Student Visa category under the points-based immigration system.

This article deals with understanding the old law, the new rules, and how to avoid refusals.

The Old Law: Tier 4 (General) Student Visa (Pre-2020 System)

Under the previous Tier 4 system (before the immigration overhaul in late 2020):

• Students applied under Tier 4 (General) of the Points Based System.
• Applicants required 40 points:
  • 30 points for a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) issued by a licensed sponsor
  • 10 points for maintenance funds
• Students could bring dependants only if:
  • They studied at postgraduate level for 12+ months, or
  • They were government-sponsored
• The rules were strict on:
  • Credibility interviews
  • Attendance monitoring
  • Course progression requirements
• Switching into work routes (e.g., Tier 2) was limited and restrictive.

This system was criticised for being overly rigid and difficult to navigate.

 The New Law: Student Visa Rules Under the Points-Based System (PBS)

The Tier 4 system has now been replaced by the Student Visa route under the PBS framework, bringing several key changes:

 Key Requirements Under the Current Rules

• A valid CAS from a licensed student sponsor
• Proof of English language ability (CEFR B1–C1 depending on level)
• Evidence of financial maintenance
• Genuine Student Requirement (similar to the older “credibility test”)
• Payment of Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) and visa fees

Major Recent Changes Affecting Students (2024–2025 Updates)

• Restrictions on bringing dependants:
  Most students can no longer bring dependants unless studying a PhD or research-based postgraduate degree.
• Increased financial requirement thresholds to ensure applicants can support themselves.
• Additional checks on academic progression and intention to study.
• Tighter rules on switching into work routes while in the UK.
• Crackdown on low-quality or non-genuine institutions.

What This Means for Applicants

The Student Visa route remains accessible, but applications are scrutinised more heavily, meaning errors, missing documents, or poor preparation can easily lead to refusal.

Common Reasons for Student Visa Refusals

• Insufficient funds or lack of correct financial evidence
• Incorrect or expired CAS
• Inconsistencies during credibility interviews
• Unclear academic progression
• Failure to meet English language requirements
• Submission of documents in the wrong format

 How Villars Legal Can Help You Secure Your Student Visa

Villars Legal is an SRA-regulated law firm specialising in UK Immigration, providing expert assistance through every stage of the application process.

Villars Legal regularly assists students who had initial refusals or are submitting fresh applications.

Our services include:

Full eligibility assessment

We review your academic background, sponsor eligibility, finances, and personal circumstances.

Preparing and submitting your Student Visa application

Ensuring every document meets Home Office requirements.

Appeals and Administrative Reviews

If you’ve been refused, we help challenge the decision.

 Switching routes after your studies

Skilled Worker Visa
Graduate Route (where applicable)
Sponsorship opportunities