To study in the UK, you may need to apply for a visa. Check this page to find out what you need.
Who needs a visa
You are likely to need a student visa if you do not:
- hold a UK or Irish passport
- have indefinite leave to remain in the UK
For part-time study, the visa support that can be provided depends on the course. Visit the International Student Office website for more information on part-time study and immigration.
The University’s International Student Office provides student-related immigration advice to applicants, students and their family members. You can find detailed guidance on applying for a student visa on their website.
Before applying for a student visa
You will need a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies). This confirms that the University wishes to sponsor your student visa.
It’s important to be aware of the costs associated with a student visa application. This includes an application fee and an immigration health surcharge. Details of costs can be found on the International Student Office website.
It is your responsibility to identify whether you need a visa and to comply with the immigration requirements for your studies.
Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
If you’ve applied for certain science and technology courses and you will be studying on a time-limited visa, you may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
The ATAS gives you clearance to study certain sensitive subjects at postgraduate level in the UK.
Check if your course requires an ATAS
Your offer will confirm whether you need ATAS clearance. You can also select your course from the list below to check if ATAS might be required.
Apply for your ATAS certificate
The ATAS application is free and managed by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
To apply, you need to complete and submit an online form on the GOV.UK website. As part of the application, you must use the ATAS statement provided by the University. This will be available in your Self-Service account after receiving an offer.
You must upload your ATAS certificate to your Self-Service account if it is a condition of your offer.
Apply for your ATAS as early as possible, but no more than 6 months before the course start date.
You need to apply for separate ATAS certificates for each UK University and programme of study you receive an offer for.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
You need a CAS before you can apply for a student visa.
A CAS includes a unique reference number and other information that you must use to complete your visa application.
Your CAS will be prepared by the Postgraduate Admissions Office using information from:
- your University application
- your passport
- current or previous UK visas
Make sure copies of your most recent passport and visas have been uploaded to your Self-Service account.
When we will issue your CAS
We will send your CAS to you by email after your offer of admission has been confirmed. It will also be available in your Self-Service account.
You can expect to receive your CAS from:
- June - if you're starting your course in October (Michaelmas Term)
- September - if you're starting your course in January (Lent Term)
- January - if you're starting your course in April (Easter Term)
What to do when you get your CAS
When you receive your CAS, check through the details carefully to ensure the information is correct.
Any errors or omissions will need to be amended before you make your visa application.
If you’re a current Cambridge student
If the University is already sponsoring your student visa, you may be able to continue to your new course with your existing visa.
You can do this if the following apply:
- your visa expires after the start date of your new course
- you make a student visa application within 6 weeks of your course start date or before your current visa expires, whichever is earlier
If your visa expires more than 28 days before the start date of your new course, you must apply for your new student visa from outside the UK. If you apply in the UK, the Home Office will refuse your application.