Overview
You will normally need a visa to study as a doctoral student in the UK as an international student. You will need to apply as part of the UK’s points-based Student Visa process, which is the same for undergraduate, Masters and PhD levels of study.
If you have been granted asylum, are recognised as a refugee or have long residence in the UK, you may not need a visa to study as an international student. The UK Council for International Student Affairs has comprehensive guidance for international students.
Eligibility
International students who meet the following criteria are able to apply for a student visa:
- You have been accepted to study at a UK institution as a student visa sponsor and granted confirmation of acceptance for studies.
- Your course is a full-time or part-time PhD at Ofqual level 7 or above
- You have the necessary English language skills for your course
- You have PhD funding, or the means by which to pay your fees and living costs yourself.
You are able to bring dependents to the UK if you are studying towards a doctorate or a research-based higher degree (i.e. Masters by research).
How to apply
Universities are required to ‘sponsor’ students’ visa applications. Once your chosen place of study has agreed to sponsor your application, you will receive a confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS). You can then apply for your UK Student Visa.
The university who sponsors you is responsible for confirming you meet the requirements for your course, including relevant qualifications and English language ability.
You apply for your student visa on the gov.uk website
Join our International Community
Find out more about the Visa & Immigration process.
If you are not a UK or Irish citizen you must have valid immigration permission allowing study in the UK before we can enrol you on a course at AECC UC.
Latest News
Discover and read all the latest news, press releases and happenings here at AECC University College.
AECC University College has changed its name to Health Sciences University (HSU). This represents a significant milestone in our institutional journey as we proudly carry this new prestigious title.
Martin Kumm tells the story of his journey from graduation to achieving his dream job as a chiropractor for the EF Education Easy-Post professional cycling team.
Professional ballet dancer Pippa Myres had to re-think her career and is now training to become a podiatrist on the MSc Podiatry course.
On Wednesday 10th July, AECC UC's specialist Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) will be running a free Health and Wellness Open Clinic.
AECC University College is delighted to be a signatory of the Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA).
Callum Moss is a First Year student on the MSc Physiotherapy (pre-registration) course at AECC University College. We recently caught up with him to hear more about his decision to study to become a physiotherapist and why AECC UC is an appealing specialist university.
