Studying in the UK is a big dream for many Ghanaian students — and a powerful way to access world-class education, career opportunities, and global exposure. But before you pack your bags, you need to secure your UK Student Visa (previously Tier 4).
This guide gives you the complete checklist for 2025: all documents, timelines, common mistakes, and practical tips to make sure your application is 100% ready before submission.
1. Eligibility Requirements
Before preparing documents, check if you meet the key requirements:
- An unconditional offer from a UK university or institution.
- A valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number.
- Proof of sufficient funds (tuition + living costs).
- Proof of English language ability (IELTS, PTE, or other accepted test).
- Valid passport and biometric enrolment.
2. Financial Requirements (Proof of Funds)
The UK Home Office requires that you show:
- Tuition fees (as listed on CAS) for the first year.
- Living costs: £1,334/month (up to 9 months) if studying in London, or £1,023/month outside London.
- Funds must be in your (or your parent/guardian’s) bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before application.
- Acceptable documents: bank statements, loan letters, sponsorship letters.
⚠️ Common refusal reason: bank statements that don’t meet the 28-day rule or sudden unexplained deposits.
3. Document Checklist (2025)
✅ Valid Passport
✅ CAS statement from your university
✅ Proof of funds (bank statements, sponsorship, scholarship letter)
✅ English test certificate (IELTS, PTE Academic, or equivalent)
✅ Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (required in Ghana)
✅ Academic transcripts and certificates
✅ Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment confirmation
✅ Completed online application form (UKVI Student Visa)
✅ Biometric appointment receipt
4. Application Process Step by Step
- Receive CAS → after accepting your university offer.
- Prepare documents → check with this checklist.
- Pay fees → visa application fee (£490 in 2025) + Immigration Health Surcharge (~£776 per year of study).
- Submit online application via UKVI website.
- Book biometric appointment at VFS Global Accra.
- Attend appointment → carry all original documents.
- Wait for decision → usually 3–6 weeks from biometrics.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Submitting bank statements without 28-day funds history.
❌ Applying without a valid TB certificate.
❌ Using CAS from an unrecognised institution.
❌ Leaving gaps or inconsistent information on forms.
6. Timeline to Plan Ahead
- University admissions: apply at least 6–9 months before course start.
- CAS issuance: usually 3 months before intake.
- Visa application: apply 3–4 months before travel.
- Visa decision: allow at least 6 weeks.
7. How Help Me Visa Supports You
At Help Me Visa, we help students in Ghana prepare complete and successful applications. Our packages include:
- Basic Support → Document review + form guidance.
- Complete Package → Full application preparation until submission at VFS.
- Premium Advisory → Complex cases, refusals, or scholarships.
💡 Our goal is simple: every student walks into VFS with a 100% ready application.
Conclusion
Getting a UK Student Visa can feel complicated, but with the right checklist and guidance, you can avoid mistakes and secure your approval on the first try.
👉 Ready to start your journey?
WhatsApp Us Today or Start My Visa and get your Visa Ready Check.
