Study in the UK from Saudi Arabia
Studying in the UK from Saudi Arabia comes down to three steps: choosing a university and course, applying and getting an offer, then the Student visa. A licensed sponsor must offer you a place before you apply for the visa, and Almorad helps you plan the application, funds and visa in the right order.
Last updated: 2026-10-08
Steps to Study in the UK
The usual path from decision to arrival:
- Choose the subject and level and compare universities by course, not only by name.
- Check entry and English requirements on the official course page.
- Apply through UCAS for undergraduate study, or usually directly to the university for postgraduate study.
- Once your offer is unconditional, the university issues a CAS.
- Apply for the Student visa with proof of English and funds.
- Arrange accommodation and travel, and check arrival and enrolment rules.
Applying Through UCAS
Most undergraduate applications go through UCAS with up to five courses. For 2027 entry, 15 October is the deadline for Oxford, Cambridge and most medicine, dentistry and veterinary courses, and 13 January is the equal consideration date for most other courses.
Postgraduate applications are usually made directly on the university website, with deadlines that vary by course.
English Language and Entry Requirements
The Student visa requires at least CEFR B2 for degree level and above, shown with an approved SELT or other routes listed by GOV.UK. Some universities ask for higher scores, especially for medicine and law, so make sure your test is accepted by both the university and the visa.
Student Visa and Official Costs
You need a place from a licensed sponsor and a CAS, enough money and the required English level. From outside the UK you can apply up to 6 months before the course starts, and a decision usually comes within 3 weeks. For degree-level study at 18 or over you can usually stay up to 5 years.
Official visa costs (not tuition):
- Student visa application fee: £558.
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £776 per year for students.
- Maintenance funds: £1,529 a month in London and £1,171 elsewhere, for up to 9 months, held for 28 days in a row, plus first-year fees shown on your CAS.
Do You Need ATAS?
Some sensitive-technology courses need an ATAS certificate before you start, and Saudi Arabia is not on the exempt list at the time of review. Processing takes at least 30 working days and can be longer from April to August; applying is free. Ask your university early if your subject is advanced science or engineering, such as cybersecurity.
Studying in the UK on a Saudi Scholarship
On a scholarship, the university and subject must meet the program rules, and lists and tracks change from time to time. Confirm with your sponsoring body before applying.
After Study
The Graduate visa lasts 2 years for bachelor's and master's graduates who apply on or before 31 December 2026, and 18 months for those who apply on or after 1 January 2027. PhD graduates get 3 years. The application fee is £937 plus the healthcare surcharge.
FAQ
How long does a UK Student visa take?
GOV.UK says a decision usually comes within 3 weeks from outside the UK. Avoid non-refundable travel before a decision.
When can I apply for the visa?
Up to 6 months before the course starts from outside the UK, once you have a CAS.
Can I apply for the visa before I have a place?
No. A confirmed place from a licensed sponsor comes first.
Does the Graduate visa duration change?
Yes, on 1 January 2027, as stated above.
Can I bring my family?
Only in specific cases, such as research-based postgraduate courses or government-sponsored students on courses longer than 6 months, with extra funds shown.
Does Almorad guarantee admission or a visa?
No. We prepare and follow up your file; the final decision belongs to the university and the relevant government authority.
Related guides and pages
- UK Student visa: from CAS to travel
- UK Graduate visa guide
- How to write a personal statement
- IELTS vs TOEFL vs Duolingo
- Scholarship without IELTS
- University admission for the Saudi scholarship
- Studying cybersecurity abroad
- UK visa from Saudi Arabia
- Browse universities
Why Choose Almorad?
Almorad checks your documents against the official requirements above and guides you through each step of your application. Book a free consultation with our team.
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