Study in the UK: Visa Application Costs for Bangladeshi Students

1. UK Student Visa Fees

Bangladeshi students applying to study in the UK require a Student Route visa (previously Tier 4). The visa allows you to study full-time at a recognized UK university and may permit part-time work during your course.

Visa Fees for Bangladeshi Students (2025 estimates):

• Student Route Visa: £524 per application (paid online)

• Visa for Dependents (if applicable): £524 per dependent

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year for students + £388 for part of a year (less than 6 months)

Key Points to Remember:

• Visa Fees are non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied. IHS fee is refundable, if your application is refused.

• The Immigration Health Surcharge must be paid along with the visa application.

• Processing times may vary, but students are advised to apply at least 3 months before the course start date.

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2. University Application Fees

Most UK universities do not charge a direct application fee for postgraduate applications, but undergraduate applications are typically made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).

UCAS Fees (2025 estimates):

• Single Choice Application: £28.50 per student

• Multiple Choice Application (up to 5 courses): £28.50

Additional Application Costs:

• Some universities may charge separate application fees for postgraduate programs ranging from £20 – £50.

• Specialized programs, such as medicine, law, or MBA courses, may require admission tests (UCAT, BMAT, LNAT), which have their own fees.

• English proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic) also involve additional costs:

  • IELTS: ~£150 – £200

  • TOEFL iBT: ~£180 – £200

  • PTE Academic: ~£160 – £200

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3. Additional Costs Related to Visa and Application

When applying for a UK visa and university admission, Bangladeshi students may also incur other costs:

• Document Preparation and Certification: Certified translations, notarization, and attestation for academic and financial documents.

• Travel Costs: Flights to the UK for visa interviews or initial arrival.

• Courier Fees: Some universities require physical submission of documents.

• Photography: Passport-sized photos for visa and application forms.

Tips:

• Keep a buffer of £200 – £300 for miscellaneous fees.

• Always check university websites and the UK Home Office portal for updated fees.

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4. How to Pay Visa and Application Fees

Payment for UK visa and application fees is generally done online, but the method may vary depending on the requirement:

• Student Visa Fees: Paid online via the UK government visa portal using a credit or debit card.

• UCAS Application Fee: Paid online during the submission process.

• English Language Tests: Paid online during registration on IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE portals.

• University Application Fees: Some universities accept online payment or bank transfer for postgraduate program applications.

Tips:

• Keep payment confirmations and receipts for visa and admission purposes.

• Pay all fees well before deadlines to avoid delays.

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5. Cost-saving Tips for Bangladeshi Students

Studying in the UK can be expensive, but students can reduce costs with careful planning:

• Apply Early: Early applications may avoid additional late fees.

• Check Fee Waivers: Some universities waive postgraduate application fees for international students.

• Combine Applications: Apply to multiple courses through UCAS for undergraduate programs with a single fee.

• Scholarships: Certain scholarships cover part of the visa or application fees.

• Budget for English Tests: Register for tests well in advance to find affordable slots.

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6. Timeline for Visa and Application Process

Understanding the timeline helps students budget both time and money:

1. University Applications:

   • UCAS opens in September; undergraduate deadlines vary by course (Oct–Jan).

   • Postgraduate deadlines vary, but early application is recommended.

2. English Language Tests:

   • Take tests at least 3 months before the application deadline.

3. Visa Application:

   • Apply 3 months before the course start date to allow processing and avoid rush.

4. Payment of Fees:

   • Ensure all visa, IHS, and application fees are paid before submission.