Do I need a visa to study with Burlington College?

Most people need a student visa for the UK, except European Union countries. Always check your status before arriving at Heathrow airport JUST IN CASE. Immigration Officers turn away students every year for the wrong paperwork, an expensive and upsetting situation to go through.

Do I qualify for a UK Student Visa?

To qualify for a UK Student Visa you must meet certain requirements. These include being accepted on a course that involves fifteen hours or more teaching hours and registering with an approved educational visa provider. Burlington College is accredited by the BAC (British Accreditation Council) and is on the Department of Further Education and skills list of apporved visa providers and all students enrolled on a course at Burlington College fulfill these criteria.

What else do I need to know?

You have to prove that you can meet the costs in the UK, from accommodation and food to course fees. Remember, London rents are least 25% more expensive than the rest of the country. You must also intend to leave the UK on completion of your studies.

How many kinds of visa are there?

There are short-term single entry and short-term multiple visas (less than 6 months) and long-term multiple visas (more than 6 months). If you feel that you will need to leave the UK for ANY amount of time, you must get a multiple entry visa otherwise you will not be allowed back in.

Can I extend my stay as a student?

Yes, but applications must be made early. Start planning for a new visa as soon as you think you will need to stay. Also, if you require a visa and didn't enter the UK as a student, it may not be possible for you to stay on as a student. The support team at Burlington College will be able to advise you on this process.

Can I work?

You may only work up to 20 hours per week. Accepting full-time work or setting up your own business is not allowed and you will be asked to leave the country if you do that.

Can I bring family with me?

Spouses and children are allowed to enter but, again, you have to show that you can support them. Spouses can work provided you were allowed to enter the UK for 12 months or more (long-term visa).

Can I work during my studies?

If you are a full-time student and you have a student visa, you can work for up to 20 hours per week, but the College recommends that you do not work for more than 15 hours per week. You do not need a work permit, your student visa is enough to enable you to work.

How do I find a job?

• Go to Harrow Jobcentre
• Look in Employment Services offices. Addresses and telephone numbers can be found in a Business and Services telephone directory.
• Also, buy the 'Evening Standard' or local papers, which advertises part-time jobs and go to ask personally in bars, restaurants and cafes.

How do I get a National Insurance number?

Your employer will usually ask you to provide a National Insurance number. To get one of these, go to:

DSS Euston
1 Melton Street
London NW1
Tel: 01399 040002

At the junction of Euston Road and Melton Street.
Open: Mon - Thurs 8.30 a.m. - 4.00 p.m
Friday 9.30 a.m. - 3.00 p.m.

Note: You cannot get a National Insurance number unless you have a job, so if someone offers you a job, they need to give you a letter saying that they want to employ you and asking the DSS to give you a National Insurance number.

Do I have to pay tax on my earnings?

Most students do not earn enough money to pay tax. Ask your employer how much, if anything, you have to pay over the year. If your employer charges you tax, ask for the address of their tax office and you can claim the money back.