Are you a student in Rawalpindi dreaming of studying in London, Manchester, or Birmingham in 2026? The UK remains the top destination for Pakistani students due to its world-class education and the 2-year Post-Study Work (PSW) visa.
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However, the visa process has become more technical with new financial requirements and the shift toward digital eVisas. This guide provides a localized, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your application is successful on the first attempt.
1. The Pre-Application Phase: Building Your Foundation
Before you fill out any forms, you must secure your “Big Three” documents.
A. The CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)
Your university will issue a CAS once you meet all academic conditions and pay your initial deposit.
- Check for Accuracy: Ensure your name matches your passport exactly.
- Validity: A CAS is only valid for 6 months.
B. The Tuberculosis (TB) Test
Pakistani students staying for more than 6 months must be screened for TB.
- Where: You must visit the IOM (International Organization for Migration) clinic. For Rawalpindi residents, the nearest center is in Islamabad.
- Validity: The certificate is valid for 6 months.
C. The 28-Day Financial Rule
This is the most common reason for rejections. You must prove you have held the required funds for 28 consecutive days without the balance dropping even for a single day.
- London Universities: £1,334 per month (up to 9 months).
- Outside London: £1,023 per month (up to 9 months).
- Plus: Any unpaid tuition fees for the first year.
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2. Step-by-Step Application Process (Rawalpindi/Islamabad)
Step 1: Online Application
Visit the Official GOV.UK Website to start your application. You will need your CAS number and passport details.
Step 2: Pay the Mandatory Fees
As of early 2026, the fees for a Student Visa are as follows:
- Visa Application Fee: £524 (Approx. 185,000–190,000 PKR).
- IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge): £776 per year. For a 3-year degree, this is approx. £2,328.
Step 3: Book Your Biometrics in Islamabad
Since there is no Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Rawalpindi, you must book an appointment at VFS Global Islamabad (located in Park Road, Chak Shahzad).
- Upload Documents: You can self-upload your bank statements and transcripts online to save time.
Step 4: The Credibility Interview
You may be invited for a video interview. The officer will ask about your course modules, why you chose that specific university, and your plans after returning to Pakistan.
3. Comparing Visa Services: Standard vs. Priority
For students in a rush, choosing the right service is vital.
| Feature | Standard Service | Priority Service |
| Decision Time | ~3 Weeks (15 working days) | ~5 Working Days |
| Additional Cost | None | Approx. £500 (175,000 PKR) |
| Best For | Students applying 2+ months early | Last-minute admissions |
4. Checklist of Required Documents
Ensure you have clear scans of:
- [ ] Valid Passport
- [ ] CAS Reference Number
- [ ] 28-Day Bank Statement & Account Maintenance Certificate
- [ ] TB Test Certificate from IOM Islamabad
- [ ] Academic Transcripts & English Test (IELTS/PTE)
- [ ] Affidavit of Support (if using parents’ bank account)
5. Why Applications Get Rejected (And How to Avoid It)
- Irregular Deposits: Large, unexplained sums of money deposited into your bank account just before the 28-day period.
- Weak SOP: Using AI-generated or “copied” Statements of Purpose. Your intent to study must feel genuine.
- Interview Failure: Not knowing the city your university is located in or the names of your course modules.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a UK visa from Rawalpindi is a journey that requires careful planning. By following the 28-day rule and preparing for your interview, you can join the thousands of Pakistani students successfully studying in the UK this year.
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