As of 2025, there are four main types of UK visas for study purposes: the Short-term Student visa (for English language study), the Student visa (for higher education such as bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees), the Child Student visa (for minors aged 4 to 17), and the Parent of a Child Student visa (for a parent caring for a child holding a Child Student visa in the UK).

Short-term Student Visa

For applicants aged 16 or over who wish to take an English language course in the UK for 6 to 11 months. The institution must be accredited by the UK government, and you must leave the UK within 30 days of completing your studies. Applications cannot be made from within the UK; they must be submitted from outside, such as from South Korea. During your stay, you are not permitted to work or attend a state school.

Under current immigration rules (2025), you cannot switch from a Short-term Student visa to a Student visa from within the UK. If you plan to progress to a UK university or postgraduate course, you should consider this restriction carefully.

Student Visa

For applicants aged 16 or over who are enrolling on a university or postgraduate course, foundation programme, or a pre-sessional English course. You must obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from an approved student sponsor and demonstrate sufficient funds and English language ability. In certain cases—such as postgraduate research or government-sponsored courses—dependants (spouse and children) may be eligible to apply.

Child Student Visa

For children aged 4 to 17 who wish to study at an independent (private) school in the UK. Students aged 16 or 17 can choose between a Student visa and a Child Student visa depending on the level of their course. As with the Student visa, you will need a CAS, proof of sufficient funds, and parental consent.

Study at UK state schools is not permitted; attendance is limited to fee-paying independent schools.

Parent of a Child Student Visa

For one parent of a child aged 4 to 11 who holds a Child Student visa and is enrolled at an independent school in the UK. The length of stay is tied to the child’s visa. Employment and study are not permitted. Applicants must maintain their main residence outside the UK, meaning you must provide evidence—such as property ownership or rental agreement—that you continue to reside in your home country, in addition to meeting financial and other requirements for your UK stay.

In most cases, applying for a UK student visa is relatively straightforward, but individual circumstances can introduce complexities. Given recent years’ tightening of UK visa and immigration policies, we recommend seeking assistance from an immigration adviser authorised by the UK government.