Applying for a UK student visa can be an exciting yet complex process. For students in Ghana looking to study in the UK, it is essential to know the specific costs and procedures involved in obtaining a visa. In this article, we will break down the different types of student visas available, the costs associated with them, and provide additional information on how to ensure your application is successful. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of the UK student visa fees in Ghana and what you need to do to study in the UK.
Types of UK Student Visas
There are several types of student visas available to international students wishing to study in the UK. The type of visa you need depends on the course you wish to take and the length of your stay. Below, we discuss the most common student visas for students in Ghana:
1. Student Visa (General Tier 4)
This is the most common visa for international students coming to the UK for a full-time study program. If you plan to study for more than six months at a recognized UK institution, this is the visa you will likely need. The student visa allows you to stay in the UK for the duration of your course and up to an additional four months if your course lasts more than a year.
2. Short-Term Study Visa
This visa is suitable for students who are coming to the UK for short courses or English language courses lasting between 6 to 11 months. The short-term study visa does not allow you to extend your stay in the UK beyond the original period. It also has stricter rules regarding work options, meaning you cannot work during your stay.
3. Child Student Visa (Tier 4)
If you are under the age of 18 and planning to study at a school in the UK, you may need a Child Student Visa. This visa is specifically for children who are enrolled in a course at an independent school. It comes with specific rules about guardianship and where you can stay while studying.
4. Graduate Visa
The Graduate Visa is for international students who have completed a degree or higher qualification at a UK university. This visa allows you to remain in the UK for up to two years to work or look for work at any skill level. It is important to note that this visa is only available to students who have completed their degree-level education in the UK.
UK Student Visa Fee in Ghana
The UK student visa fees are subject to change, and it is important to check the most up-to-date information before applying. As of 2025, the following are the main costs associated with applying for a UK student visa in Ghana:
1. Application Fee for the Student Visa
The most significant fee you will need to pay when applying for a UK student visa is the application fee. The amount depends on the type of visa you are applying for.
Student Visa (General Tier 4): The fee for this visa is £363, which is approximately GHS 4,800 (this amount may fluctuate depending on the exchange rate).
Short-Term Study Visa: The application fee for a short-term study visa is generally £97 for courses lasting less than 6 months, and £186 for courses lasting between 6 and 11 months. In Ghanaian cedi, this would range from approximately GHS 1,200 to GHS 2,400.
Child Student Visa: The fee for the Child Student Visa is £348, which is approximately GHS 4,500.
Graduate Visa: The fee for the Graduate Visa is £700, which is approximately GHS 9,000.
It is important to note that the fees mentioned above are for the visa application alone. Additional costs may apply depending on your specific situation.
2. Healthcare Surcharge (Immigration Health Surcharge)
In addition to the visa application fee, all international students must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This surcharge gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), allowing you to receive healthcare during your stay in the UK.
As of 2025, the Immigration Health Surcharge is £470 per year for students. This means that if you are studying for a one-year course, you will need to pay £470 (approximately GHS 6,000) for the health surcharge. For students who are studying for longer than one year, the amount will be higher, depending on the length of your course.
3. Additional Costs for Dependents
If you are bringing dependents (such as a spouse or children) with you to the UK, you will need to pay additional fees for their visa applications and the healthcare surcharge.
Visa Fees for Dependents: The fee for dependents applying for a Student Visa is £348 per person (approximately GHS 4,500).
Healthcare Surcharge for Dependents: Each dependent will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £470 per year (approximately GHS 6,000 per year for each dependent).
4. Other Costs to Consider
Aside from the visa application and healthcare surcharge, there may be other costs associated with your visa application. These include:
Biometrics Appointment: You may need to attend a biometrics appointment as part of the application process. The cost of the biometric appointment is usually included in the application fee.
Documents and Translations: You may need to provide documents as part of your visa application, such as academic certificates, financial evidence, and a tuberculosis (TB) test. If your documents are not in English, you will need to pay for certified translations.
English Language Test: Some students may be required to take an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS, as part of their visa application. The cost of such tests can vary, but it is generally between £150 to £200 (approximately GHS 1,950 to GHS 2,600).
How to Pay the UK Student Visa Fee
Payment for the UK student visa fee is usually made online through the official UK Government website. You will be required to create an account on the website, complete the visa application form, and then pay the application fee using a debit or credit card. The payment system accepts various payment methods, including Visa, MasterCard, and other international payment systems.
Once you have made the payment, you will receive a receipt that you will need to include in your visa application. It is essential to keep a copy of the payment receipt for your records.
What Happens After Paying the Fee?
Once you have paid your visa application fee, you will be required to submit your application documents. These documents include proof of your financial ability to cover tuition fees and living expenses, your passport, biometric information, academic transcripts, and any additional documents as requested by the UK government.
After submission, the UK authorities will process your application. The processing time typically takes around 3 weeks from the date of your application. However, it is advisable to apply as early as possible to avoid delays, especially if you are applying for a visa during peak periods.
Conclusion
The UK student visa fee in Ghana varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Students need to factor in the application fee, the healthcare surcharge, and any additional costs, such as documents and translations. The overall cost of studying in the UK can be high, but understanding these fees will help you plan your budget and ensure a smooth visa application process.
Be sure to check the most recent information on the official UK Government website to confirm the current fees and visa requirements. Planning ahead and budgeting for the associated costs will help ensure you are ready to embark on your educational journey in the UK.
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