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So, you’re dreaming of learning English in the heart of one of the world’s most exciting cities—London. But before you pack your bags and head off to take any English courses in London, there’s one important step: getting your UK Short-Term Study Visa. Don’t worry—it sounds more complicated than it is. This guide is your friendly companion through the process. Whether you’re a first-time traveller or just unsure where to begin, we’ll explain everything!
This visa is perfect if you’re 16+ and want to take an English language course for up to 11 months in the UK. It’s a popular option for students coming to study at an accredited English language institute like ES London. As per the 2025 update, this visa is only for English language study. To join any other courses, you’ll need a Visitor Visa (6 months max) or a Student Visa.
You can apply if you:
According to official 2025 data, applicants must pass a “genuineness test” to prove they’re truly coming to study English and will leave the UK on time.
Before you apply, make sure you gather all the right documents. Here’s what you’ll need:
If you’re under 18, you’ll also need:
Depending on your situation, you might also need to show your right to be in the country you’re applying from or extra information about your financial sponsor (if someone else is funding your trip).
💱 Financial Tip: To show you can support yourself, it’s recommended to have enough for your course fees plus £1,483/month if studying in London, or £1,136/month outside London (up to 9 months). If your proof of funds is in a foreign currency, it will be converted to pounds using the OANDA rate on your application date. If your currency isn’t listed, the UK will use the monthly consular exchange rate (CER) —so check the right rate before you apply.
When you’re ready, go to the official UK Government website and apply for the Short-Term Study Visa (English Language). Here’s what you’ll do:
⏳ You can apply up to 3 months before your course start date. It’s best to apply early, as processing times vary by country and can take around 3 weeks or longer in busy periods.
At your visa appointment, you’ll:
If successful, you’ll receive a digital eVisa that can be accessed online through the UKVI system (or a vignette in your passport if you don’t have a UKVI account).
🆕 2025 update: The UK has phased out physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRP cards)—these were plastic ID cards that showed your visa details and right to stay in the UK. From now on, your visa status will be fully digital.
Time to pack your bags! Bring:
When you arrive at the airport in the UK, be ready to tell the immigration officer that you’re here to attend English classes in London—this is your reason for visiting, and they may ask you a few simple questions about your course and school.
Once in London, it’s time to learn and explore! At ES London:
Learning in London isn’t just about books—it’s about exploring the city while taking part in some of the most exciting language courses London has to offer.
While on a Short-Term Study Visa, there are important restrictions to keep in mind. After your course ends, you must leave the UK within 30 days or by the visa expiry date—whichever comes first. You cannot change your course or study anything other than the English course you were accepted for. You’re also not allowed to study at a state-funded school.
Working or doing any kind of business—whether paid, unpaid, or as part of a work placement—is not permitted. You cannot extend this visa or switch to another visa (like a Student or Work visa) from inside the UK. You must apply from your home country. You cannot bring family members with you or apply for public funds or the UK State Pension.
You’re just one step away from a life-changing experience in London! Whether you’re interested in General English or Speaking Classes, ES London has the perfect course for you. So, stop simply searching ‘English school near me’ and enquire now to start your learning journey in London with us!
Like what you read? We love to keep you updated about everything at ES. Check out our different courses, exciting facts about London, news, updates, amazing success stories from us and much more.
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Planning to study in the UK? Understand all you need to know about your student visa’s dos and don’ts, from work limits to study opportunities, and start your journey with ES London.
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At ES Education, we make learning English a memorable and fun experience for every student. We pride ourselves in the family-like atmosphere of our school. By learning and discovering London with us in a diverse community, your school will become a second home!
We offer full time and part time English courses to international students.
