Visa support

If you usually live outside Europe and you plan to study in the UK for more than six months, you may need a visa. Visa rules are made by the UK Border Agency and they sometimes change, so refer to the UKBA's website to make sure you are up to date. The UK operates a Points-Based System (PBS) for student visas. This means that the UKBA will only grant a visa if you can earn enough points with your application. According to the UKBA, points for General Student visas can be awarded for two things: your General Student Visa Letter, and your maintenance funds.

- The General Student Visa Letter is provided by your school or university, and must follow the UK Border Agency's rules for Visa Letters.

- For your maintenance funds you must show the UK Border Agency that you have enough money to support your time in the UK, including tuition fees and living costs. (See our Finance page for details.)

Many UK visas are refused because of problems with the Visa Letter from the school or university. When you apply through beo, your university will send your Visa Letter straight to us. beo will check your letter and contact the university to discuss any concerns before you apply, saving you time and money.

In fact, top universities have come to beo for advice on how to write their Visa Letters, so you can be confident that you are working with the experts!