When to apply

Last updated: 08/05/2024 13:07

You can apply for your student visa up to six months before the start date of your course if outside of the UK or three months before if you are extending in the UK.

You must have a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) to apply. Contact the Student Visa Compliance Team at the university to request a CAS if needed:

• Student Connect website for current students.
• Applicants and offer holders can email studentconnect@cardiff.ac.uk.

You can check the time required to process your visa on the UK Government website. Allow an additional 3-10 working days for your passport to be returned by the visa application centre.

Priority and Super-Priority visa application routes overseas are available in some locations, please, check the services offered by your chosen Visa Application Centre in advance. Students are advised to apply as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the university is unable to speed up visa applications in any way.

You should wait until you have obtained your successful visa decision letter and vignette in your passport before you book any non-refundable travel tickets.

It is advisable to start the process early.

You must use the information on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) email. The Student Visa Compliance team at the university will send this to you once you have accepted your unconditional offer of study.

Your CAS must not be over six months old when applying for your student visa. If you use it after this date, your application will be refused.