UK Student Visa 2026 Updated Requirements, CAS, and Financial Proof Explained

If you’re planning to study in the United Kingdom in January or September 2026, the UK Student Visa (formerly Tier 4) is your essential entry ticket. Navigating the process—from understanding the CAS letter to mastering the 28-day financial rule—can feel confusing.

This guide simplifies the complete UK Student Visa process for 2026 for applicants from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, highlighting all updated requirements and offering expert tips from Indian Overseas Service (IOS) Vijayawada.

1. The Core of Your Visa: Understanding the CAS Letter

The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is the single most important document you will receive. It is a unique electronic reference number issued by your licensed UK university after you have accepted their offer, paid your deposit, and met all necessary conditions.

Important 2026 CAS Updates:

• Validity: You must apply for your visa within 6 months of receiving the CAS.

• Accuracy is Key: The name, passport number, course title, and fee details on the CAS must match your application documents exactly. A mismatch is a primary cause for immediate visa rejection.

• Credibility: The university issues the CAS, often after a pre-CAS interview. Your CAS confirms to the UK government that you are a genuine student.

2. Financial Proof: The Critical 28-Day Rule

To receive your UK Student Visa, you must prove you have the funds to cover your remaining tuition fees and living expenses (known as "maintenance funds"). Getting this wrong is the most common reason for refusal.

Funds Required (Approximate 2026 Standards):

• Tuition: You must show the remaining amount due for your first year of tuition.

• The 28-Day Rule: All required funds (tuition balance + maintenance total) must be held in your bank account for a continuous period of at least 28 days before you submit your online visa application. The final statement must be no older than 31 days at the time of submission.

Accepted Financial Documents:

• Bank statements (from you or your parents/legal guardian).

• Educational loan letters (must be from an approved, regulated financial institution).

• Official scholarship or government sponsor letters.

3. Required Documents & Application Process

Gathering and formatting your documents correctly is where our expertise at IOS Vijayawada provides the most value.

Key Documents Checklist:

1. Valid Passport

2. CAS Letter (The unique reference number)

3. Financial Proof (Meeting the 28-day rule)

4. TB Test Certificate (Mandatory for Indian applicants)

5. Academic Transcripts (Originals or certified copies)

6. English Test Results (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent)

7. ATAS Certificate (Only for certain sensitive technical postgraduate subjects)

The Application Process:

Accept Offer & Pay Deposit: Secure your CAS.

1. Verify Funds: Ensure your bank account meets the 28-day rule.

2. Online Application: Complete the application form via the UK Government website.

3. Pay Fees: Pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants you access to the National Health Service (NHS).

4. Biometrics: Book and attend your appointment at the VFS Global center to provide fingerprints and a photograph.

5. Decision: Wait for your visa decision, which typically takes 3-4 weeks.

4. The Credibility Interview: Your Final Test

While not all students are called for an interview, many are. This Credibility Interview (CI) is your final chance to prove you are a Genuine Student to the UKVI.

Be ready to confidently answer questions like:

• Why did you choose this specific course at this university?

• How will this qualification lead to a better job upon your return to Andhra Pradesh?

• What is the name of your course, and what are the modules you will study?

• Who is sponsoring your studies, and what is their annual income?

Why Choose IOS Vijayawada?

Don't let the complexity of the visa process risk your UK dream. At Indian Overseas Service, we provide zero-processing-fee counseling and end-to-end visa support.

• Financial Verification: We meticulously verify your bank statements to guarantee compliance with the 28-day rule.

• SOP and CAS Coordination: We ensure your Statement of Purpose (SOP) and CAS details are perfectly aligned to avoid credibility issues.

• Mock Interviews: We provide realistic mock interviews to prepare you for the CI.