Getting a Visa to Enter the UK

How do I get to come to the UK to study?

The criteria are:

• you must have been accepted for a full time course of study
• the College must be in the Dfes register of UK learning providers. Cambridge Management College is on this register
• you must be able to pay your tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses without receiving any UK public funds
• you should intend to leave the UK after the completion of your studies.

As a student what things do the Visa people take into account when I apply for a visa?

The visa people are looking for genuine students who will benefit by a full time course of study in the UK. Consequently there has to be:

• consistency within the application i.e. dates of study sought should tally up with the offer letter
• evidence must be present on the payment of fees. Many visa officers look for at least 50% of the fee being paid at the outset. You can pay 100% at the outset. If the visa is refused monies are returned. Again if you pay the full fee at the outset a discount of 5% applies to your overall fee
• you will need details of the course and how the course meets your specific needs
• accommodation arrangements must be noted
• you must give evidence of financial self sufficiency [bank statements etc
• you can give evidence of your desire to return to your home country [e.g. join a family business]
• you must lodge a copy of the passport with the visa official database. 

What can I do if I am refused a visa?

The Entry Clearance Officer should give you the reasons for refusal and an explanation for the decision. Appeals, procedures etc should be noted in that document.

Can I appeal against the decision?

This is possible for students who apply and intend to spend at least 6 months in the UK.  The College will attempt to facilitate a successful conclusion for you by giving supporting documentation etc but cannot guarantee that this will be successful

Can my visa be extended?

Yes – if you continue studying with CMC, for example, at post graduate level on a full time course, you can apply for an ‘extension of stay’.

Can I work while I am studying?

Paid vacational work must not interfere with your studies.  However, yes you can take vocational work [40 hours per week] or part time work provided that you do not work more than 20 hours per week during term time. We do not do work placements which would allow an excess of 20 hours, so the 20 hour rule would apply. You should not engage in business, self employment or the provision of a service. You should not pursue a career by filling a permanent full time vacancy.
N.B. There are general rules and the terms of your specific visa may differ and such visa terms take precedence.

I have a partner and children. Can I bring them with me?

Your spouse and children under 18 years of age may be able to accompany you during your studies.  Please note that you must prove/show evidence that you can maintain and accommodate them without recourse to public funds.

Assuming my spouse is allowed to the UK, can my spouse work?

This is possible if you were granted leave to enter or remain the UK for 12 months or more.

N.B. Please check the terms of your spouse’s visa as these may differ and will take precedence over the terms of yours.

What do I do if I lose my passport?

Initially – report it to the police and a crime reference number will be given.  Your embassy/high commission will process your revised application with the crime reference number/incident details. 
You then apply to the Home Office for the correct stamp with this documentation.

N.B. You are responsible for having a valid passport and up to date travel documents.

How many hours do I study per week?

Full time students study for a minimum of 15-20 hours per week.

Private study time and directed study by the college would add another 10 hours per week and additional time is required to complete the assignments.