Visa and Immigration

This page provides further information on the visa process for students completing SGU awards in the UK.  

How do I apply for a visa to study in the UK?

Northumbria University will provide SGU students with a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) document which can be used to apply for a UK Student visa.  Further information on the visa application process can be found on the UKVI website.  Please note that it is not possible to study an SGU programme in the UK on any other category of visa including short term or tourist visas. 

How long can I study in the UK?

The CAS provided by Northumbria University will allow SGU students to apply for a visa which lasts for the full duration of their studies in the UK.  SGU students will be attached to a Northumbria University academic award.  The award each student is attached to may vary depending on their chosen SGU programme.  However, most students will be attached to the Bachelor of Medical Sciences award.  The CAS document issued by Northumbria University will cover the full duration of this programme.  As the final year of the Bachelor of Medical Sciences is completed through a period of study in Grenada, the visa duration will generally cover a period of study in both the UK and Grenada. 

Do I have to pay an Immigration Health Surcharge?

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is payable during the UK Student visa application process.  Further information on IHS costs can be found on the UKVI website.  SGU students are generally sponsored for the duration of the Bachelor of Medical Sciences award.  As the final year of this award is completed through a period of study in Grenada, students will pay an additional year of IHS costs during the visa application process.  Whilst this additional cost relates to a period of time spent outside the UK, the additional IHS fee must be paid or the visa application is likely to be rejected. 

Can I apply for a Graduate Route visa to work in the UK?

Students who successfully complete the Northumbria University Bachelor of Medical Sciences award during their time as an SGU student are eligible to apply for a Graduate visa.  This visa allows graduates from UK universities to work in the UK for 2 years after successfully completing a degree level award.  Students must meet the following conditions to satisfy the eligibility criteria for a Graduate visa.  Please note that visa requirements are subject to change at any time and students should check the latest UKVI guidance prior to submitting their visa application:

• Students must successfully complete the Northumbria University Bachelor of Medical Sciences award. Please note that students who achieve lower level exit awards will not meet the Graduate Route requirements.
• Students must have been granted a Student visa with Northumbria University as sponsor with a total duration of at least 12 months.
• Applicants must apply for a Graduate Route visa from within the UK and must submit their application prior to the expiry of their Student visa.