Overview
You will normally need a visa to study as a doctoral student in the UK as an international student. You will need to apply as part of the UK’s points-based Student Visa process, which is the same for undergraduate, Masters and PhD levels of study.
If you have been granted asylum, are recognised as a refugee or have long residence in the UK, you may not need a visa to study as an international student. The UK Council for International Student Affairs has comprehensive guidance for international students.
Eligibility
International students who meet the following criteria are able to apply for a student visa:
- You have been accepted to study at a UK institution as a student visa sponsor and granted confirmation of acceptance for studies.
- Your course is a full-time or part-time PhD at Ofqual level 7 or above
- You have the necessary English language skills for your course
- You have PhD funding, or the means by which to pay your fees and living costs yourself.
You are able to bring dependents to the UK if you are studying towards a doctorate or a research-based higher degree (i.e. Masters by research).
How to apply
Universities are required to ‘sponsor’ students’ visa applications. Once your chosen place of study has agreed to sponsor your application, you will receive a confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS). You can then apply for your UK Student Visa.
The university who sponsors you is responsible for confirming you meet the requirements for your course, including relevant qualifications and English language ability.
You apply for your student visa on the gov.uk website
Join our International Community
Find out more about the Visa & Immigration process.
If you are not a UK or Irish citizen you must have valid immigration permission allowing study in the UK before we can enrol you on a course at HSU.
Latest News
Discover and read all the latest news, press releases and happenings here at Health Sciences University.
HSU graduate Ben Samways studied BSc (Hons) Sport, Exercise and Health Science before progressing into strength and conditioning with an MSc at Bournemouth University.
HSU graduate Nikita completed BSc Clinical Exercise Science before progressing to an MSc in Health Education and Promotion and a PhD in Tobacco Control at Maastricht University in the Netherlands.
HSU graduate Joel Kearney studied BSc Clinical Exercise Science before progressing into elite sport performance, biomechanics and strength and conditioning. Following an MSc at LJMU, UKSCA accreditation and a Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship PhD, Joel has worked with organisations including Liverpool FC, British Cycling, British Gymnastics and the FA, and is now Head of Strength & Conditioning at Championship Rugby Union side Caldy RFC.
Since joining HSU in 2023, Billy Coleman has been teaching across the BSc and MSc Sport Rehabilitation programmes while also coordinating student placements. A BASRaT-accredited practitioner and HSU MSc Sport Rehabilitation & Therapy graduate, they combine teaching with hands-on industry experience at Wimborne Town FC and Bournemouth Heart Club, supporting patients across cardiac, respiratory, diabetes and cancer rehabilitation.
Health Sciences University has appointed internationally recognised clinician, researcher and educator Professor Jeremy Lewis PhD FCSP as a Professorial Research Fellow within its Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Innovation (IMHI).
HSU graduate Sam Bigley studied BSc Exercise Science (Health and Rehabilitation) before progressing into respiratory and prehospital care.
