Don’t let paperwork panic ruin your study abroad dream. Here is the ultimate timeline to securing your CAS and Student Visa on time for the UK.
If you are aiming for the UK 2026 September intake, you are officially in the “Golden Window” of preparation. While September feels far away, the reality of university admissions and the UK CAS process means you need to start now.
The UK student visa system is strict, precise, and unforgiving of delays. One missed bank statement or a late deposit could push your start date back by months. But don’t worry—we’ve broken down the chaos into a simple, foolproof UK 2026 September intake visa timeline.
Phase 1: The “Prep & Finance” Stage (February – April 2026)
Action: Finalise your UK university choice and secure an Unconditional Offer at this stage.
Critical Step: Start your “28-Day” Clock. To get your CAS, you must prove you have enough money. The UKVI requires these funds to sit in your account untouched for 28 consecutive days.
- For London Students: You need to show £1,529/month (approx. £13,761 total for 9 months).
- For Outside London Students: You need to show £1,171/month (approx. £10,539 total for 9 months).
Tip: Start this now so your bank statement is ready when the university asks for it!
Phase 2: The “CAS & Interview” Stage (May – June 2026)
This is where the UK CAS process really kicks in.
Pay Your Deposit: Most UK universities require a tuition deposit (usually £3,000–£5,000) to unlock the next step.
Pre-CAS Interview: Many universities will interview you to check your genuine intent to study. They will ask about your course modules, future career plans, and why you chose the UK. So be prepared!
TB Test: If you are from a country that requires it (like Bangladesh & Nigeria), book your Tuberculosis test now. Appointments fill up fast in summer!
Phase 3: The “Application” Stage (July – August 2026)
Once you receive your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number, you can officially apply for your visa.
Apply Early: You can apply for a Student Visa up to 6 months before your course starts. Apply early to secure a smooth and hassle-free visa processing.
Pay the Fees
- Student visa application fee (outside the UK): £524 (from 9 April 2025; subject to change, so always confirm on GOV.UK).
- IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge): £776 per year of the visa period.
| Month | Key Activity | Status |
| Feb – Mar | Accept Offer & Prepare Finances (28-day rule) | Start Now |
| April – May | Pay Deposit & Pass Pre-CAS Interview | Critical |
| June – July | Receive CAS & Submit Visa Application | Peak Season |
| August | Biometrics & Visa Collection | Final Lap |
| September | Travel to the UK & Join | Misson Accomplished |
Understanding UK Visa Processing Time for September 2026 Intake
Once you hit “submit” on your application, the waiting game begins. The UK visa processing time for the September 2026 intake typically follows these standards:
- Standard Service: Decisions usually take 15 working days (3 weeks).
- Priority Service: Decisions in 5 working days (approx. £500 extra on top of the standard visa fee).
- Super Priority: Decision by the next working day or 2 days (approx. £1,000 extra on top of the standard visa fee).
Warning: During the August rush, standard processing can sometimes stretch to 4-5 weeks. Applying in July is the safest bet to avoid paying for expensive priority services!
Don’t Risk a Rejection, Let Experts Handle It. Navigating the UK student visa timeline for the September 2026 intake can be tricky and confusing. A single error in your financial calculations or a weak answer in your credibility interview can lead to a visa refusal.
At Aspire Global Pathways (AGP), we have a near-perfect track record with UK visas. We track every rule change, manage your 28-day fund timeline, and mock-interview you until you are confident.
Start Your Visa Application with AGP Today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When should I request my CAS for the UK 2026 September intake?
For the UK 2026 September intake, you should request your CAS immediately after paying your deposit and meeting all offer conditions, typically between May and June 2026. Universities stop issuing CAS numbers around late August.
2. How much funding do I need for a UK Student Visa in 2026?
As of 2026 rules, you need £1,529 per month (London) or £1,171 per month (Outside London) for up to 9 months, plus any unpaid tuition fees.
3. What is the UK visa processing time for the September 2026 intake?
The standard UK visa processing time for the September 2026 intake is 3 weeks (15 working days). However, high demand in August can cause delays, so applying in July is recommended.
4. Can I apply for a UK student visa without a CAS?
No. The CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is a mandatory electronic document containing a unique reference number you must enter on your visa application.
5. Is the IHS fee refundable if my visa is rejected?
Yes, if your visa is refused, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is automatically refunded. However, the visa application fee (£524) is generally not refundable.