How much do Nepali students need for a UK Student visa?

You need tuition fees plus living costs of £1,334/month (London) or £1,023/month (outside London) for 9 months. At approximately 172 NPR to £1, maintenance alone is around NPR 20.6 lakh (London) or NPR 15.8 lakh (outside London).

Can Nepali students work in the UK?

Yes. Student visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. After graduating, the Graduate route gives 2 years of full-time work rights.

UK Student Visa for Nepali Students 2026

Q: Do Nepali students need a TB test?

Yes. Nepal is on the TB-testing list. Get tested at an approved IOM clinic in Kathmandu before applying.

Updated 8 March 20269 min read

What you need to know

•TB test is mandatory from an approved clinic in Kathmandu.
•Financial evidence must cover tuition plus maintenance in GBP equivalent.
•Applications processed through VFS centre in Kathmandu.
•IELTS for UKVI is the most commonly used English test in Nepal.
•Popular courses include business, IT, nursing, and engineering.

Nepali students are increasingly choosing the UK for higher education. This guide covers the specific requirements for Nepali applicants, including financial evidence in Nepali Rupees, the mandatory TB test, popular university and course choices, and practical advice for the application process.

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Popular Universities and Courses

Nepali students study across the UK with concentrations at:

University of the West of England, University of Sunderland, London Metropolitan University
University of Bedfordshire, University of Northampton, University of Hertfordshire
Popular courses: business and management, IT, nursing, engineering, and accounting

Financial Evidence in NPR

At approximately 172 NPR to £1, the financial requirements are:

London maintenance (9 months): approximately NPR 20.6 lakh
Outside London (9 months): approximately NPR 15.8 lakh
Plus outstanding tuition fees

Nepali students commonly use family savings, education loans from Nepali banks, or scholarship funding. See our financial documents guide for tips on preparing your evidence.

TB Test and English Language

Nepal is on the TB-testing list. Get tested at an approved IOM clinic in Kathmandu. For English, IELTS for UKVI is the most widely available test in Nepal. PTE Academic is also an option. See our English language guide.

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Applying from Nepal

Apply online on GOV.UK and attend biometrics at the VFS centre in Kathmandu. Standard processing takes 3-4 weeks. Priority service may be available — check with the VFS centre. For timing advice, see our processing times guide.

After Your Studies

Nepali graduates can apply for the Graduate route (2 years, 3 for PhD) or switch to a Skilled Worker visa. See our switching guide for all options.

Next Steps

Related guides:

This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an OISC-registered adviser or immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the latest rules.

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