Our First Steps guide (180 KB) will help you prepare for obtaining entry clearance. It summarises immigration policy and procedures, helps you answer questions on the visa application form and tells you what to do if you experience difficulties.

There are many opportunities for international students to work in the UK both during and after their studies. The opportunities available include part time or vacation work, the possibility of staying in the UK to develop your experience in the workplace, as well as course-related work placements. Read more about working in the UK as an international student.

In the UK, most universities and colleges can help to arrange facilities and accommodation for families as well as single students. Before you arrive, you’ll need to consider which family members are able to come with you, where they will live, what they will do here and how you will cover their living costs. Read more about bringing your family to the UK.

Students planning to study in the UK for more than six months will be required to apply for the General Study Visa under the UK's new points-based visa system for international students (Tier 4) from 31 March 2009. Find out what you should do when applying for a student visa by referring to the quick guides prepared by the UK Border Agency or watch an instructional video on the application process. All applications in Singapore have to be submitted through the VFS Visa Application Centre.

From 1 November 2007, all postgraduate students except nationals of European Economic Area (including Switzerland) seeking qualifications in science, technology or engineering based courses in the UK will need to obtain an ATAS Clearance Certificate prior to making a Student Entry Clearance. ATAS application forms can be obtained from the ATAS website or requested from atas@fco.gov.uk.

The purpose of this scheme is to stop the spread of knowledge and skills that could be used in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery. It is designed to ensure that those who are applying to study certain sensitive subjects in the UK do not have links to WMD programmes. Find out the list of subjects covered under the scheme.