How to Apply for a UK Student Visa from Bangladesh

Why Study in the UK?

The United Kingdom is one of the most popular destinations for higher education. Every year, many students from Bangladesh choose the UK for their studies because of its:

Globally recognised universities
Opportunity to work part-time during studies
High-quality healthcare and public services
Free school education for children (if you bring family)
Safe and multicultural environment
Post-study work opportunities (2 to 3 years)
A pathway to long-term settlement if you qualify later

Can You Bring Your Family?

Yes. If you are studying a PhD or a research-based postgraduate course (starting on or after 1 January 2024), or you are sponsored by a government for a course longer than six months, you can bring your:

Spouse or partner
Children under the age of 18

Children can access free schooling in the UK if you are studying full time and meet the visa requirements.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a UK Student Visa

1. Get a University Admission

First, apply to a UK university approved by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Once accepted, the university will issue you a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies). This is required for your visa application.

2. Prepare Your Documents

You will need to provide:

Your valid passport
CAS letter from your university
English language test result (IELTS or equivalent)
Proof of funds in your or your sponsor’s bank account
- Living cost: £1,334/month (in London), £1,023/month (outside London)
- For each dependant: £845/month (London), £680/month (outside London)
TB test certificate from an approved centre
Marriage certificate (for spouse)
Birth certificate (for children)
ATAS certificate (for some postgraduate courses)
Evidence of relationship and family consent if under 18

Bank funds must be held for 28 consecutive days before applying.

3. Apply for Your Visa

Submit your application online through the UK government’s official site. After applying, you’ll need to visit the visa application centre (VFS Global) in Dhaka or Sylhet to provide your fingerprints and photo.

Visa Fee: £490 per person
Healthcare Surcharge (IHS): £776 per person per year

4. Wait for Your Decision

Standard processing time is usually around 3 weeks. Priority processing is available in some cases for an extra fee.

5. Travel to the UK

Once approved, you will receive a visa sticker in your passport. After arriving in the UK, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). You can then begin your studies and settle into life in the UK.

What If You Are Bringing Your Family?

Each dependant will need to apply for their own visa, pay the visa fee, and healthcare surcharge. You must apply online and provide supporting documents for each family member.

Dependants can apply at the same time as you, or separately if needed. Their visa duration will match yours. If your children are school-aged, they can attend local public schools without extra fees.

Can You Apply by Yourself?

Yes, you can. However, the process can be confusing, especially with financial rules, documentation, and changing visa policies. Mistakes can lead to delays or visa refusal.

This is why many students prefer to get support from an experienced education advisor.

How Surmount Academy UK Can Help

Surmount Academy is based in London and works directly with UK universities. We help students:

Get admission to UK universities
Understand visa requirements clearly
Prepare strong applications
Learn how to adjust and succeed in the UK after arrival
Receive continuous support from both UK and Bangladesh teams

Our goal is not just to help you apply but to make sure you are confident, informed, and prepared for your future in the UK.

Contact Us

Surmount Academy UK (London Office)
194B High Street, London, E6 2JA
Phone: +44 7840 902030
Email: info@surmountacademy.com

Bangladesh Partner Office (Adroit School of Professionals)
2/2, Block A, Lalmatia, Dhaka 1207
Phone: 01302248883
Email: info@adroitsp.com
Website: www.adroitsp.com
Office Hours: Saturday to Thursday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Final Advice

Studying in the UK is a big step and a valuable opportunity. Whether you’re coming alone or with your family, make sure you understand the process and prepare well. You can manage everything yourself, or you can reach out to trusted experts like Surmount Academy UK for support.

Our role is to guide you, not to sell to you. Let us help you take the right steps toward a better education, career, and future in the UK.

Source: UK Government official visa guide – https://www.gov.uk/student-visa

How to Apply for a UK Student Visa from Bangladesh (With or Without Family)