On Tuesday, the UK government invited 2,400 applications from Indians under the Young Professional Scheme. Those who are between the age of 18 and 30 years old can apply.
“This is an excellent opportunity for India’s brightest young people between the ages of 18-30 to experience the best of the UK,” said the British High Commission in New Delhi as it released the detailed eligibility criteria for the new scheme.
Recently, a Bloomberg report said that the UK issued residence visas to more people last year than before the pandemic started. The number of visas issued by the UK’s Home Office increased to 1.4 million last year from 714,300 in 2019. Many of these were for Indian workers. Also, the number of people coming from Ukraine and Hong Kong increased significantly
Eligibility Criteria for UK Student Visa under Young Professional Scheme.
Individuals who are eligible for the program must have a bachelor’s degree or above, and they should have at least £2,530 (approximately ₹2.6 lakhs) in their bank account. They should also not have any minor children.
If you are an Indian citizen, then you can participate in the ballot for the Young Professionals Scheme. Before you start the process, make sure that you are eligible. The results of the ballot will be sent by email within two weeks. The entries that were successful will be selected randomly.
The ballot is free to enter. However, you must only apply if you intend to get a residence permit, which costs around £259 (approx ₹26,000) and a healthcare surcharge of Pound 940 (approx ₹94,000). You must also meet other educational and financial requirements. The successful candidate must travel to the UK within 6 months of applying for his/her visa.
You have 30 days to apply online and pay the required fees. If you’re not successful in the ballot, then you can still participate in the next round, which will be held in July. The UK government will provide you with a visa for up to two years and allow you to work and live in the country. You can go to the UK, leave and come back at any time during your stay in those two years.
The establishment of the Young Professionals Program between the UK and India is regarded as a significant step in the development of the relationship between the two countries India and the UK. It also highlighted the UK’s commitment to strengthening its ties with the Indo-Pacific region and propelling the ongoing free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations.
Also check out how to apply for UK Student Visa.
Step-by-Step guide to apply for the UK Student Visa Process
If you are planning to study in UK as an international student, you will need to obtain a Tier 4 (General) UK student visa.
Here is the detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply for a student visa in the UK:
Step-1 Choose a College or UK University:
You must first be accepted into a UK university or college that holds a Tier 4 sponsor license. The institution will issue you a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) which is required for the visa application.
Step-2 Check if you need a TB test:
Depending on your nationality, you may need to take a tuberculosis (TB) test as part of your visa application. Check the UK government’s website to see if this applies to you.
Step-3 Complete the UK Student Visa Application:
You can apply online for a Tier 4 (General) student visa on the UK government’s website. You will need to fill in your personal and educational details and provide the CAS number.
Step-4 Pay the UK Student Visa Fee:
The application fee for a Tier 4 (General) student visa depends on where you are applying from. You can find the current fees on the UK government’s website which £363 Pounds around INR 34594/-
Step-5 Provide Biometric Information:
You will need to provide your fingerprints and a photograph as part of your application. You can do this at a visa application center or at some UK universities.
Step-6 Attend a UK Student Visa Interview:
Depending on your nationality and the information you provide in your application, you may be required to attend an interview at a visa application center.
Step-7 Wait till Student Visa Processing Time:
If your visa application is successful, you will receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport which will allow you to enter the UK. You will need to collect a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arriving in the UK. The BRP will contain your visa details, including the length of your stay in the UK.
Applying for a UK Tier 4 (General) student visa can be a lengthy process. It is important to start the application process as early as possible to allow time for any delays or issues that may arise.
How much is the UK Student Visa Fees or Cost
If students are applying from outside the UK, the charge for the UK Student Visa, formerly known as the Tier 4 (General) Student Visa, is £363 (about Rs 34,594). You must also pay a healthcare premium, the amount of which is determined by how long you are staying.
The payment options available are 1. Using a MasterCard or Visa credit or debit card online. 2. via D.D. (Demand Draft) at specific Standard Chartered Bank branches and the visa application centre. 3. Cash at specific Standard Chartered Bank locations and the visa application center.
What Documents Required for the UK Student Visa Process
- A valid passport or any other documentation for travel
- Proof of funds to cater to your living costs during your course
- Funds need to be maintained for 28 days (tuition fees + living cost)
- CAS reference number – Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies
- Documents used for obtaining the CAS
- Color photographs of passport-size
- If needed, screening for Tuberculosis
- Your University will make you aware of additional requirements if any prior to your application
