Visa refusals

Why student visas get refused, and what to do next

Common refusal reasons in 6 countries, the money you must show, and how to appeal or apply again. Information only: the final decision is always the immigration authority's.

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Country 6 countries

Visa fee£490 (student visa)

Other feesBiometrics included in the appointment

Health cover£776 a year Immigration Health Surcharge

Money you must showTuition plus £1,334 a month in London or £1,023 outside London, held for 28 days in a row

Common refusal reasons in the United Kingdom

Balance dropped during the 28 days

What happened: The account went below the required amount for even one day in the 28-day period.
How the officer sees it: "The financial rule is not met." There is no flexibility here.

Keep the money untouched for 31-35 days before applying, with a margin for exchange-rate changes.

Credibility interview went badly

What happened: The student could not name the campus, course modules or costs.
How the officer sees it: "The applicant is not a genuine student."

Know your modules, why the UK and why this university, and your monthly budget.

Second Master's at the same level

What happened: A second Master's with no clear step up from the first.
How the officer sees it: "The academic progression rule is not met."

Ask the university to explain the progression in your CAS.

If you are refused

If you think the caseworker made a mistake, ask for an Administrative Review within 28 days. Otherwise get a new CAS from your university and apply again.

One Administrative Review per decision. A new application needs a new CAS.

Immigration Rules, Appendix Student and Appendix Finance (28-day funds rule, credibility interview) · Official website

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