Research Visa — Requirements and Process | GoAbroadly

Requirements

What you need
to apply

Acceptance from a UK university with UKVI-approved sponsor status
Confirmation of Research Place (CRP) or CAS
Proof of funding (stipend, scholarship or personal funds)
Research proposal approved by supervisor
English proficiency proof
Valid passport

Key Notes

PhD students use the same visa category as taught students in the UK
ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) certificate required for certain research subjects
Many PhD positions come with fully funded stipends covering fees and living costs
You must identify a supervisor before applying — the university won't issue CAS without one

Pro Tip

Secure your supervisor before anything else. Without a confirmed supervisor, no UK PhD admission is possible. We help you identify research groups aligned with your profile.