Introduction
Applying for a UK student visa can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time navigating the process. But with the right documents prepared early, the entire experience becomes much easier and far less stressful.
This guide brings together all the key requirements Kenyan and international students need to organise before submitting their UK Student Visa application. It follows approved, standard visa guidelines and matches the official steps most universities expect.
1. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Your CAS is issued by your university and contains your unique reference number, course details, fees, and academic information.
You cannot apply for a UK student visa without it.
Important: Only request your CAS when you have met all conditions, submitted your documents, and paid the required tuition deposit.
2. Certified Bank Statements (Proof of Funds)
This is one of the most important visa requirements.
Your bank statements must show you can pay:
- Your remaining tuition balance (after deposit)
- Your living expenses
- Inside London: £12,100
- Outside London: £9,300
Your bank must use a realistic exchange rate your team may advise using KSh 168 = £1 as a tentative guide.
The funds must:
- Be in the student’s or parent’s personal account
- Be held for at least 28 consecutive days
- Never drop below the required amount during that period
- Come from a savings or current account
- Business, company, or investment accounts are generally not allowed unless specifically assessed and approved.
Tip: Always calculate your total like this:
Tuition Fee – Deposit Paid + Living Expenses = Total Required Funds
3. Official Bank Letter
Your bank must also issue a letter confirming:
- Account name
- Account number
- Currency
- Confirmation that funds are available
This letter must match the bank statement details exactly.
4. Birth Certificate
Carry the original and a clear copy.
This is required especially when your parents are sponsoring you.
5. Parent’s Consent Letter + Parents’ IDs/Passports
If you are using your parent’s account or funds received from them you must provide:
- A signed consent letter
- Copies of their ID cards or passports
Even if the money sits in your own account, you may still need parental consent if the university or visa office requests it.
6. Academic Documents
Provide original and copies of everything listed on your CAS:
- Certificates
- Transcripts
- Result slips
Ensure these match the details submitted during your admission process.
7. TB Certificate (IOM Test)
All applicants must take their TB test at the IOM Centre in Gigiri, Nairobi.
Requirements:
- Pay KSh 14,000 via Mpesa
- Carry your original passport
- Use the university’s address during registration
- Apply for the test through the official link
8. Passport + Color Copies
Your passport must:
- Be valid
- Have clear identification pages
- Include colour copies of all pages, even blank ones
9. Updated CV
Your CV helps show a clear timeline of your education and work history.
This is especially important for students who have taken academic gaps.
10. Online Visa Application Form
This is usually completed with support from your education consultant.
Payments required (approximate):
- Visa fee: £524.30
- IHS (1 year): £1,160.90
- Priority service (optional): £504.50
Since exchange rates change often, always budget slightly more to avoid delays.
Conclusion
Preparing your documents early is the best way to avoid last-minute stress when applying for your UK student visa.
From proof of funds to your TB certificate, each document plays an important role in ensuring your visa is approved smoothly.
At Global Scholars Connect, we guide students through every step from securing an offer to completing your visa application confidently and correctly.
Whether you’re preparing for January, May, or September intake, our team ensures you meet every requirement on time.
It is important to note that the figures used as examples here are bound to changes, therefore the information should only be used for awareness purpose.
