As an international student preparing to study at the University of Manchester, navigating the visa and CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is the first step in your studying abroad journey. It can also be the most frustrating stage.

The process begins with receiving your offer and meeting any conditions. Once your offer becomes unconditional, the university issues your CAS. This is a unique reference number that confirms your place and allows you to apply for your student visa. For me, receiving my CAS took a couple of weeks after I met all conditions, so it is important to plan ahead and not leave everything to the last minute.

Once I received my CAS, I was able to apply for the UK Student visa online. This involved completing an application form, paying the visa fee, and Immigration Health Surcharge (£880 for the application fee plus a Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) of £1,035 per year of the visa), and uploading supporting documents. Key documents included my passport, CAS number, and proof of finances. I found it helpful to prepare these documents in advance, especially financial evidence, as requirements can be quite specific. After submitting the application, I booked a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and a photo. Depending on where you are applying from, this step may vary slightly.

In terms of timeline, I would strongly recommend starting early. From receiving my CAS to getting my visa decision, the process took a few weeks, but delays can happen, especially during peak periods. A good rule of thumb is to begin preparing your documents as soon as you accept your offer, even before your CAS is issued.
Organisation was key throughout this process. I kept a checklist of required documents, deadlines, and steps completed. This helped reduce stress and ensured I did not miss anything important.

One of the most helpful things I learned is that the process is very structured. While it may seem complicated at first, each step follows a clear sequence: offer → CAS → visa application → biometrics → decision.

Additionally, you are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This can be a great way to gain experience and support yourself financially. After graduating, many students choose to apply for the Graduate Route visa, which allows them to stay and work in the UK for up to two years.

My main advice to prospective international students is to stay organised, start early, and carefully follow official instructions. Do not rely solely on informal advice, as requirements can change. Overall, while the visa and CAS process can feel daunting at first, it is a process that takes time and patience, while also requiring preparation.

Written by Vincent, a current postgraduate student in SEED. 

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