The United Kingdom remains one of the most popular study destinations in the world. Its universities combine academic excellence with a global reputation for innovation, employability, and opportunity. But while studying in the UK is exciting, the process of applying to a university, preparing your visa documents, and meeting financial requirements can feel confusing at first. This guide breaks it all down step by step so you can move from your offer letter to your UK visa with confidence.
Academic Timeline.
Most UK universities offer two main intakes each year – September and January. Regardless of which session you choose, the process follows three clear steps that lead to one crucial goal.
Language Requirement.
General IELTS Requirements for UK Bachelor’s Degrees.
| Program Type | Overall IELTS Score | No Band Below | Notes |
| Foundation / Pathway Programs | 5.0 – 5.5 | 4.5 – 5.0 | For students who don’t meet direct entry requirements. |
| Bachelor’s Degrees (Most Universities) | 6.0 | 5.5 | Standard for courses like Business, Computing, Arts, etc. |
| Highly Academic / Language-Heavy Courses (e.g. Law, Journalism, Nursing) | 6.5 | 6.0 | Slightly higher due to professional or communication standards. |
General IELTS Requirements for UK Master’s Programs.
| Program Type | Overall IELTS Score | No Band Below | Notes |
| Taught Master’s (e.g. MSc, MA, MBA) | 6.0 – 6.5 | 5.5 – 6.0 | Most universities accept 6.0 overall with no band less than 5.5. Prestigious ones may require 6.5 overall. |
| Research Master’s (e.g. MRes, MPhil) | 6.5 – 7.0 | 6.0 – 6.5 | Research-heavy programs demand stronger writing and comprehension skills. |
| Professional Courses (e.g. Law, Health, Education) | 7.0 | 6.5 | Due to professional accreditation or regulatory standards. |
English Language Proficiency Equivalent to IELTS.
Some UK universities also accept: Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates; if your last degree was taught fully in English. Other tests are also accepted by some universities such as PTE, OIETC, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test.
However, many universities only accept MOI if issued within the last 5 years and may request a short English interview or internal test for verification.
You need to fulfill three steps to commence your study abroad journey.
Step 1: Apply to the University and Receive Your Offer.
Once you’ve selected your preferred course and university, you’ll submit your application along with the required academic documents.
If your application is successful, you’ll receive an offer letter. To confirm your place, you’ll need to pay a small portion of your tuition fee, usually 30–60%. This payment activates the next step: the Pre-CAS Interview.
Step 2: The Pre-CAS Interview, Your Gateway to CAS.
After paying your initial deposit, you’ll be invited for a Pre-CAS Interview. This is a mandatory step where the university ensures that you understand your chosen course and genuinely plan to study in the UK.
Pro tip: At Migration Pathway Ltd, we help students prepare through mock interviews and with detailed consultation; for you to approach your Pre-CAS interview with full confidence.
Before you receive your CAS Letter, you will be required to pay the required tuition fee to the university. CAS Letter is an obligatory document for your UK visa application.
Step 3: Visa Application and Biometrics.
After receiving your CAS Letter, it’s time to apply for your UK Student Visa. Your consultant from Migration Pathway Ltd will usually help complete the visa application form, and you’ll attend a biometric appointment at VFS for fingerprints and photographs.
List of Documents Required.
For University Application
- Passport.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- CV.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- IELTS/MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificate.
- Letters of Recommendation.
- Work experience certificates (if applicable).
For UK Visa Application
- CAS Letter.
- Passport.
- Academic certificates.
- Bank statement (showing sufficient funds).
- Tuition fee payment receipt.
- TB test and insurance certificates.
- SOP and sponsor consent letter.
You might also be asked to show financial proof like pay slips or property deeds but these are usually not required in initial visa application.
Expected Costs.
| Visa Application Fee | £524 | Mandatory. |
| UK Health Insurance Fee | £776 per year | Mandatory. |
| TB Test | 5,000–10,000 BDT | Mandatory. |
| Tuition Fee Deposit | Approximately 40% of total fee | Fee Before visa application. |
| Airfare | 70,000–150,000 BDT | Depending on airline company |
Do you want a free consultation with our expert consultants? Contact Migration Pathway Now!