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Child students - Tier 4 (Child)

Applying from inside the UK

This page explains how you should apply for permission to remain in the UK under Tier 4 (Child) of the points-based system, if you are currently:

  • in the UK as a student under Tier 4, and you want to extend your stay in this category so that you can continue your studies here; or
  • in the UK under a different immigration category, and you want to study here under Tier 4 (Child). Depending on your current immigration category, you may or may not be able to 'switch' into Tier 4 (Child) - see 'More information' below.

Before you apply, you should read the Can you apply? pages to find out whether you are likely to score enough points to make a successful application.

If you think you are eligible to apply, you can find the application form and policy guidance from the right side of this page.

The 'print and send' form enables to you complete your application, pay and book an appointment online (if required). You must then print your application form.
You will then need to:

  • use our standard service to post your application form and supporting documents, and then enrol your biometric information; or
  • use our premium service to enrol your biometric information and submit your application form and supporting documents in person at one of our public enquiry offices, and (in most cases) get a decision about your application on the same day. For more information, see the Applying in person section.

The When to apply page explains when you should submit your application to us.

The Where to apply page explains how to submit your application by post, by courier or in person.

As part of your application, you will need to enrol your fingerprints and facial photograph (known as 'biometric information') with us in order to obtain a biometric residence permit. The Biometric information page explains how to do this.

There are special application requirements if you are currently in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man - see 'More information' below.

More information

  • Can I switch into the Tier 4 (Child) student category?

    You can switch into the Tier 4 (Child) student category if you have, or were last given, permission to stay in the UK as:

    • a Tier 4 (General) student;
    • a prospective student; or
    • a student under the Immigration Rules in place before 31 March 2009.

    If you are currently in the UK in any other immigration category, you must leave the UK and apply for a Tier 4 (General) visa from your country of residence.
  • Applying for a student visa if you are in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man

    The Channel Islands (Jersey, Guernsey, Herm, Sark, and Alderney) and the Isle of Man have their own immigration laws and policies. For immigration control, we consider that these islands are outside the UK.

    If you are living in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man, and the island authorities have given you permission to enter or stay there (also known as 'entry clearance' or 'leave to remain'), you cannot apply directly from the island for permission to enter the UK.

    To apply for permission to enter the UK, you have 2 options:

    • you can return to the country where you are normally resident (your 'home country') and apply from there for a visa to enter the UK; or 
    • if your permission to come or stay on the island is still current, and your immigration category on the island is one that UK immigration law allows you to switch from, you can come directly to the UK. When you have arrived here, you can apply for permission to remain as a Tier 4 student - this is because we will be able to treat your current permission under the island laws as if it had been given by the UK authorities. You must make your application to switch before your current permission to stay on the island expires.To find out whether you can switch from your current immigration category, see 'Can I switch?' below.

    Some foreign nationals must apply for a visa before they come to the UK from one of these islands. For more information, see section 2 of our Immigration directorate instructions, Chapter 1.

Application forms

Policy guidance for Tier 4 students

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Policy & Law