How Many Types of UK Student Visa for Indian Students?

How Many Types of UK Student Visa Are There for Indian Students? Every year, thousands of Indian students choose the United Kingdom for its universities, shorter degree structures, and global career prospects. Before any of that can happen, you need the right visa. The first question most applicants ask is simple: how many types of UK student visa are there for Indian students? According to the official UK government website, GOV.UK, there are three student visa types : the Student visa , the Child Student visa, and the Short-term study visa . Which one applies to you depends on your age, the kind of course you want to study, and how long it lasts. Very short courses are handled under a fourth route, the Standard Visitor visa. This guide explains each option in plain language, using information published on GOV.UK in September and October 2026. Visa fees and rules change often, so treat the figures here as a guide and confirm them on the official website before you pay. Three Main UK Student Visa Types GOV.UK groups its study visa services under one heading, and three of them are visas for students themselves: Student visa for people aged 16 or over studying further or higher education courses Child Student visa for children aged 4 to 17 studying at an independent school Short-term study visa for English language courses lasting more than 6 months and up to 11 months There is also a Parent of a Child Student visa , but it is for the parent of a child at an independent school, not for the student. And if your course is 6 months or shorter, GOV.UK points you to the Standard Visitor visa . Is There a Separate UK Student Visa for India? No. The UK does not issue a special visa category for Indian nationals. The same three categories apply to students from every country. Indian students apply under the same rules, fees, and eligibility conditions as everyone else. What differs from person to person is the supporting evidence, such as your education documents, your finances, and your English language proof. 1. The UK Student Visa (Formerly Tier 4 General) The Student visa is the most popular route for Indian students. It replaced the old Tier 4 (General) student visa and covers undergraduate degrees, postgraduate degrees, and other courses at further or higher education level. Who Can Apply? You can apply for a Student visa if you are 16 or over and: You have been offered a place on a course by a licensed student sponsor You have enough money to support yourself