How much money do Pakistani students need for a UK Student visa?

You need outstanding tuition fees plus living costs of £1,334/month (London) or £1,023/month (outside London) for 9 months. At approximately 375 PKR to £1, the maintenance alone is around PKR 45 lakh (London) or PKR 34.5 lakh (outside London), plus tuition.

Do Pakistani students need a TB test?

Yes. Pakistan is on the TB-testing list. You must get tested at an approved IOM clinic in Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi before applying. The certificate is valid for 6 months.

How long does a UK Student visa take from Pakistan?

Standard processing takes approximately 3-4 weeks from the biometric appointment. Priority service (5 working days) is available at VFS centres. During peak season, standard processing may take 6 weeks.

Can Pakistani students bring dependants?

Only if you are studying a postgraduate course of 9 months or more. Undergraduate students from Pakistan cannot bring dependants. Each dependant pays their own fees and must show additional maintenance funds.

UK Student Visa for Pakistani Students 2026

Pakistani students represent a significant portion of UK international students, particularly in postgraduate programmes. This guide covers the specific requirements including financial evidence in Pakistani Rupees, mandatory TB testing, English language requirements, and how to navigate the application process from Pakistan.

Popular Universities and Courses

Pakistani students study at a wide range of UK institutions. Popular choices include:

Russell Group: University of Manchester, University of Birmingham, University of Edinburgh, University of Leeds, UCL
Other popular choices: Coventry University, University of Hertfordshire, University of Bedfordshire, Oxford Brookes University
Popular courses: Business and management, engineering, computer science, law, medicine, and pharmacy

Financial Evidence in PKR

The financial requirements are converted from GBP at the prevailing exchange rate. At approximately 375 PKR to £1:

London maintenance (9 months): £12,006 = approximately PKR 45 lakh
Outside London (9 months): £9,207 = approximately PKR 34.5 lakh
Plus outstanding tuition fees

Pakistani students commonly fund their studies through family savings, education loans from banks such as HBL, MCB, or Meezan Bank, or sponsorship from employers or government scholarships. See our financial documents guide for preparation tips.

TB Test

Pakistan is on the TB-testing list. Approved IOM panel clinics are in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. The test involves a chest X-ray and costs approximately PKR 15,000-20,000. Book early during peak season.

English Language

Pakistan is not on the majority English-speaking country list. You need to prove your English through a SELT or your university's assessment. IELTS for UKVI and PTE Academic are widely available in Pakistan.

Processing Times from Pakistan

Standard: 3-4 weeks (may extend to 6 weeks during peak season)
Priority: 5 working days

Apply online on GOV.UK and book biometrics at a VFS centre. For timing advice, see our processing times guide.

After Your Studies

Pakistani graduates can use the Graduate route (2 years, or 3 for PhD) to work after completing their degree, or switch to a Skilled Worker visa with employer sponsorship.

Next Steps

Related guides: