Your Tier 4 Visa Requirements: Advice & Frequently Asked Questions

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) normally allows an extra 4 months after your programme has ended (if your programme is 12 months or longer). This extra time is given so that you can undertake a viva (if required), receive your results, attend your congregation ceremony, complete your affairs and prepare to leave the UK or apply for another visa.

Leaving & re-entering the UK

If you decide to leave the UK after your programme has ended (including holidays or visiting home) and intend to return for your congregation or to apply for another visa, you may not be allowed to re-enter the UK, even if you still have leave remaining on your current Tier 4 visa. Entry Clearance Officers may question why you need to re-enter the UK under Tier 4 if your programme has ended.

If you are planning to re-enter the UK after your programme has ended to attend congregation we would advise you apply for a General Visitor visa.

You should be aware that you cannot extend a General Visitor Visa in the UK and you cannot apply for any other type of visa in the UK whilst holding a General Visitor Visa. 

Leaving the UK & returning to apply for another visa

If you leave the UK after your programme has ended and intend to re-enter the UK to apply for another type of visa, even if you still have leave remaining on your current student visa, you may not be allowed to re-enter the UK.

If you want to attend your congregation you have two options. You can apply for a General Visitor Visa (see notes above) or other type of visa before you return to the UK. If you intend to work in the UK you should apply for the approriate visa before you travel to the UK. 

Further information on working in the UK after your studies.

Important note:

Many individuals manage to re-enter the UK with their current Tier 4 visa without any problems, however, you may be refused entry and we would hate for you to be one of the unlucky ones!