If your university has asked you to resit (re-take) an exam, module, or assessment, and your current UK Student Visa is expiring soon, you may need to extend your visa to complete your studies legally. The UK government allows students to apply for a visa extension only if they meet certain requirements.
Here is a complete, easy-to-understand guide.
What Is a Resit?
A resit means you are allowed to retake:
- An exam
- An assignment
- A coursework submission
- A project
- A module
You may be given a resit due to:
- Failing the module
- Unauthorized absence
- Medical issues
- Poor academic performance
- Personal circumstances
Do You Need a Visa Extension for a Resit?
You need a Student Visa Extension only if:
- Your current visa expires before you complete your resit, or
- The university requires you to remain in the UK for the resit, or
- You need additional time to finish the course beyond your original end date.
If your visa is still valid and you can complete the resit before it expires, you DO NOT need an extension.
Can Every Student Get a Visa Extension for a Resit?
Not always. A university can only issue a CAS for extension if:
- You are academically eligible to continue the course
- You have genuine reasons for the resit
- You are attending classes (if required)
- The extension does not push you over the maximum allowed study time
Requirements for Visa Extension for a Resit
To extend your visa, you must provide:
1. New CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)
Your university must issue a new CAS with:
- Updated course end date
- Explanation for the resit
- Academic progress details
Without a CAS, you cannot apply.
2. Financial Requirements
You must show you can afford:
- Remaining tuition fees
- Living expenses for up to 9 months
Living costs required:
- London: £1,334 per month
- Outside London: £1,023 per month
Funds must be:
- Held for 28 consecutive days
- In a recognised bank account
3. TB Test (If Required)
If you have been outside the UK for more than 6 months, you must take a TB test again.
4. English Language Requirement
If you already completed part of your course, you usually don’t need to retake IELTS/PTE.
Can You Apply from Inside the UK?
YES — most students apply from inside the UK.
But you MUST apply before your current visa expires.
Application Process for Visa Extension
Step 1: Contact Your University
Tell them you need more time for your resit.
They will assess your situation and issue a new CAS if approved.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
You will need:
- Passport
- BRP card
- New CAS letter
- Financial proof
- Evidence of resit (email, letter, academic transcript)
Step 3: Apply Online
Apply at the official UK government website under:
“Extend your Student Visa”
Step 4: Pay Fees
- Visa fee: approx £490
- IHS charge: £776 per additional year (or portion of a year)
Step 5: Attend Biometrics (If Required)
Depending on your application, UKVCAS may ask you for:
- Biometrics appointment
- Document upload
Step 6: Wait for the Decision
Processing time usually:
- 8 weeks inside the UK
- Priority and super-priority services available at extra cost
Can You Stay in the UK While Waiting for a Decision?
YES.
If you apply before your visa expires, Section 3C immigration law allows you to remain legally in the UK until a decision is made.
What If the University Does Not Give You a CAS?
A university may refuse to issue a CAS if:
- You failed due to lack of academic effort
- You violated attendance rules
- You exceeded maximum course duration
- You are not making academic progress
In that case, you must leave the UK when your visa expires.
Can You Work During the Extension Period?
Your working rights remain the same as long as:
- Your new CAS lists full-time study
- Your visa conditions remain unchanged
If the resit is not full-time, work rights may be limited.
Key Tips to Avoid Problems
- Contact your university early
- Do not wait until your visa is about to expire
- Keep your funds in the bank for 28 days
- Follow your university’s academic guidelines
- Avoid last-minute CAS requests
Conclusion
Extending your UK Student Visa for a resit is possible — but only if you meet all the requirements. The most important steps are getting a new CAS, providing financial proof, and applying before your current visa expires. With proper planning and timely communication with your university, you can easily secure the extra time needed to complete your course successfully.
