Visas and Immigration

Before making your visa application you should go to the UK Visa and Immigration website and read the latest Student Route guidance.

Step 1 – Obtain your CAS

Your Conditional Offer letter will outline everything you need to do in order to receive your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) number.

This number will be generated by Newcastle College and is vital to your Student visa application. Our admissions team will send you a CAS Statement once you have met all the conditions of your offer and have paid your tuition fee. The statement will contain your CAS number and will detail all the original documents that need to be included with your visa application.

Step 2 – Proof of Maintenance

Make sure you have enough money to cover your living expenses and tuition fees for the first year of your course. It will be a condition of your offer to send the admissions team proof of maintenance prior to receiving a CAS.

Your maintenance (living expenses) can be held in a variety of ways but most commonly in your own bank account for a 28-day period. Always check UKVI guidance to be sure.

Step 3 – Complete the visa application online

Check your forms for accuracy, ensuring spelling and all other information is correct before submitting. Make sure all mandatory fields are complete and make the application as clear as possible for the Entry Clearance Officer.

Step 4 – Include original documentation

Other than your CAS statement, NEVER use copies of any documents. Your CAS statement can be a print-out but you must submit original documents for everything else. This includes passport, bank statements, photos and ALL certificates/letters listed on your CAS statement.

Step 5 – Payment

The fee you pay UKVI for your visa application is non-refundable so make sure you enter all details correctly if using a bank card and ensure funds are available to avoid rejections.

You cannot submit your Student Route application until six months prior to the start date of the course as stated on your CAS Statement. You should make your application as soon as possible within the six month period to avoid being late for your course.

You should plan to apply at least six weeks before the start date on your CAS. We do not recommend that you apply any later than four weeks prior to the start of the course. If you are unable to apply four weeks before the start of the course you should contact the International Office team as we may be able to advise you on an alternative start date.

As part of your Student Route application you will be required to attend an approved centre for biometric data collection. This means that you will be asked to provide your fingerprints and have a picture taken. You may also be interviewed by an Entry Clearance Officer as part of your application. This interview can take place in person or over the telephone. You should be prepared to answer questions about your course and the modules you will be studying, the College, how you plan to finance your course and where you intend to live in the UK

When you have obtained a visa using a CAS number from Newcastle College it can only be used to study with us. You must enrol at Newcastle College International Office within two weeks of the course start date. If you think you are going to be late for any reason, please inform the International Office team as soon as possible.

To generate your EVisa you'll need to set up your UKVI account. Use the link create a UKVI account and generate your EVisa. www.gov.uk/evisa/set-up-ukvi-account

You will need to do this before travelling to the UK.

Everyone arriving to the UK must pass through immigration control. Make sure you go through the correct immigration zone to save you time.

There is one zone for UK, EU, EEA and Swiss national passport holders and another zone for others.

• Check your baggage allowance with your airline before travelling to avoid excess baggage fees.
• Pack for unpredictable weather- Newcastle’s climate can change quickly, so layers are key.
  • Spring & Summer (March-August): Mild temperatures (around 18°C), occasional heatwaves and rain. Daylight can last from 4am to 10pm, so bring light layers and an umbrella.
  • Autumn & Winter (September-February): Cold, wet, sometimes windy, with possible snow. Bring warm clothing (coat, hat, scarf, gloves) or buy them when you arrive.
  • Be ready for rain! Wellington boots (“wellies”) are popular in the UK and affordable (from around £10).
• Bring British currency for your first few days - opening a UK bank account can take time, and the British Council recommends bringing £250 for immediate expenses.
• Important documents: Keep your passport, visa, CAS/offer letter, accommodation details and travel documents in your hand luggage.
• Check UK entry rules: Some items are banned or restricted, including certain foods, plants, alcohol, cigarettes, gifts and animal products - check before packing to avoid delays at the border.
• Electronics: The UK uses Type G plugs (3-pin), so bring an adaptor for your devices.
• Medications: Bring any essential medication with a doctor’s note and ensure it is allowed in the UK.

For more information please visit homeoffice.gov.uk 

For information on banned and restricted goods please visit hmrc.gov.uk

If you need any further information you can contact the International Office at international@ncl-coll.ac.uk and we will do all we can to help.