Information
Practical Information
Student Visa requirements for studying at the Beshara School at the Chisholme Institute
The School is registered with the British Accreditation Council as The Beshara School at the Chisholme Institute and you must use this name in any application you make.
What Visa do I need to study at the Beshara School?
The position for those wishing to study in the United Kingdom has recently changed and at present nationals of countries outside of the EU or Switzerland should apply for a Student Visitor entry permit.
This gives entry to the UK for a maximum of 6 months and is similar to a 6 month's Visitor Visa but is specifically for students studying on courses less than 6 months in duration.
Can I extend my stay?
You will not be able to extend your stay in the United Kingdom as a student visitor and must leave before the six month expires.
How do I get a Student Visitor Visa?
You can only obtain permission to enter the United Kingdom as a student visitor by applying for a student visitor visa at a British diplomatic post abroad or by seeking leave from an immigration officer when you arrive in the United Kingdom. You are advised to apply as early as possible if you are applying in your home country.
The UK Border Agency defines two categories of nationals seeking entry into the UK: Visa Nationals and Non Visa Nationals. Visa Nationals are nationals of one of the countries listed on the list of Visa and Direct Airside Transit Visa Nationals and Non Visa Nationals are those of all other countries.
Visa Nationals
All nationals of those countries listed on the Visa Nationals list must obtain prior entry clearance before traveling to the UK. You need to apply in your own country at a British diplomatic post, consulate, or embassy before traveling. Please ensure you apply as early as possible.
For the list of Visa National Countries see the www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk web site:
/policyandlaw/immigrationlaw/immigrationrules/appendix1/
Non Visa Nationals
Student Visitors from all those countries not listed can apply at the port of entry by presenting their documentation to an immigration officer.
It is recommended, however, that Non-Visa Nationals also apply for a Student Visitor Visa in their home countries before traveling If they have sufficient time to do so.
To apply for a Student Visitor Visa
If you are wishing to study at the School please get in touch with the secretary as soon as possible.
You will need a letter from The Beshara School stating that:
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The school is accredited by the British Accreditation Council for Independent Further and Higher Education
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You have been accepted for a course of study the duration of which is under 6 months.
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You have paid for your course and the fee includes all accommodation and board and lodging for the whole period.
You will also need to show that you have a return ticket or sufficient funds to travel home plus sufficient money for incidental expenses whilst in the UK (traveling to and from the school, emergencies etc.)
Other helpful documentation if available:
If you are employed it is helpful to have a letter from your employer stating the length of your period of absence, saying how long you have been employed and in what job. If you have a property or lease on a house or flat to which you are returning it is also helpful to have evidence of this, to-gether with a number of bank statements and any evidence of savings that you have.
Further Details from the UK Border Agency are given below:
Click on the option: I want to study in the UK under the section: Information for visa applicants. This will take you to the next page: Studying in the United Kingdom. Click on the option: Student visitors which will explain the rules and details for student visitors. Student Visitors also need to fulfil the requirements for General Visitors.
Helpful Sites:
UK Border Agency Information on Student Visitors:
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk/student-visitors
The British Government website for Visa Services:
www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/
Visa Nationals site:
This site lists all those countries whose citizens are classed as Visa Nationals.
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/policyandlaw/immigrationlaw/immigrationrules/appendix1/