How long does it take to get a UK student visa coming from the US? I've gone on the website and gotten the form, but I don't understand if I need to go to a British embassy in person or I can mail it, or how long it takes, etc. Can I get it in less than a month? I know I need "entry clearance" before going to the UK. Thanks in advance!

Hi-- It was my experience a few years ago (2002) that one did not--as someone coming from the US--need to apply for a student visa before entering the UK. One just showed up at Heathrow (or whichever airport), and showed the guy or lady at the passport control a few documents--namely the unconditional acceptance of a reputable university, a passport, plane ticket back to the States, and possibly evidence that you have enough money to support yourself without working. Its pretty important--especially these days--to have all your documents straight when you talk to these people. They will stamp your passport with something like Permission to Leave and Enter until 31 October 2006 or whenever the progam is supposed to finish. But there will be a clauses on the stamp saying something like No recourse to public funds or All work needs to be authorized. Do check with the U.K. Home Office website or hotline to confirm all this, but I think if youre from the US, you can just get a stamp when you arrive in the UK. Best of luck.

But I thought the British Council website said you will not be given entry clearance unless you get your visa beforehand though....there is a big "non-settlement" visa application for int'l students to fill out on the site, and it requires all this documentation. Has anyone here gotten a student visa before going to school there? Does anyone know how long it takes to get approved? (it might have changed since Gozar above went due to the Iraq war, etc., who knows)

The British Council overseas are usually very helpful LawChick, it certainly will not dent your chances of getting to the UK if you give them a call with your questions.

Hope you get it sorted and get to our little island on time.

Here is a website you may find useful.

http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1018721067373#Q3

Best of luck with the move!