Can My UK Student Visa Be Refused After Receiving a CAS?

If you’re an international student planning to study in the UK, you’ve probably heard about the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). It’s an essential document that officially confirms a UK university or college has offered you a place on a course. Naturally, receiving your CAS feels like a huge milestone — and it is. However, many students wonder what happens next and whether their UK student visa application could still be refused, even after being issued a CAS.

The short answer is yes — it’s possible. Although getting a CAS means your chosen institution has accepted you, the final decision to grant your student visa lies with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). In this article, we’ll explain how this works, the reasons your visa might be refused after receiving a CAS, and how you can avoid this situation.

What Is a CAS and Why Is It Important?

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a unique reference number issued by your UK university or college. It confirms:

• You’ve been offered an unconditional place on a course.
  
  

• Your institution is a licensed sponsor under the Student visa route.
  
  

• The details of your course, including start and end dates.
  
  

• Your personal details as they appear in your passport.
  
  

This CAS number is essential when applying for your UK Student visa. Without it, your visa application cannot proceed. It’s worth noting that while receiving a CAS means your academic institution believes you meet their criteria, it does not guarantee that your visa will be approved.

Can the UK Home Office Refuse a Student Visa After a CAS Is Issued?

Yes, the UK Home Office (via UKVI) can refuse a student visa even after a CAS has been issued. The CAS is just one part of your visa application. The UKVI will assess your entire application to ensure you meet all the requirements under the Student visa rules.

Let’s explore some of the most common reasons why a UK student visa might be refused, even after receiving a CAS.

Common Reasons for UK Student Visa Refusals After Receiving a CAS

Insufficient Financial Evidence

One of the primary reasons for student visa refusals is failing to prove you have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course. The UKVI requires:

• Tuition fees for the first year of your course (or the entire course if it’s less than a year).
  
  

• Living expenses for up to 9 months, depending on where you’ll be studying. As of 2024:
  
  

• £1,334 per month if studying in London.
  
  

• £1,023 per month if studying outside London.
  
  

You’ll need to show this money in a regulated financial institution account for a continuous 28-day period before your application. Any inconsistencies or failure to meet these financial rules can lead to a refusal.

Incorrect or Incomplete Documents

UKVI has strict documentation requirements. Common mistakes that can lead to refusals include:

• Missing documents such as academic certificates or translations.
  
  

• Submitting documents that don’t meet UKVI’s specific format.
  
  

• Errors in your personal information.
  
  

• Submitting expired documents.
  
  

• Providing financial evidence from an unapproved source.
  
  

Every document you provide must be accurate, up to date, and exactly as requested in the UKVI guidelines.

Failure to Meet the English Language Requirements

To be eligible for a UK Student visa, you must prove your English proficiency, typically through a Secure English Language Test (SELT) like IELTS for UKVI. If you fail to meet the required score for your course level or submit an unrecognised test, your visa application could be refused.

Even though your university may have assessed your English ability before issuing your CAS, UKVI has the authority to reassess it during your visa application.

Poor Immigration History

Your past immigration record matters. Reasons for refusal can include:

• Previous visa refusals.
  
  

• Overstaying a previous UK visa.
  
  

• Breaching conditions of a prior visa.
  
  

• Entry bans or deportations from the UK or other countries.
  
  

UKVI checks your immigration history thoroughly and may refuse your application if they find any past violations.

Credibility Interview Issues

Some applicants are asked to attend a credibility interview as part of their visa process. During this interview, you’ll be asked about:

• Your reasons for choosing the UK and your specific course.
  
  

• Your career plans after graduation.
  
  

• Details about your financial situation.
  
  

• Your knowledge of your chosen institution and city.
  
  

If your answers seem inconsistent, rehearsed, or lacking in genuine knowledge about your course and university, your application might be refused. This is because UKVI wants to ensure you’re a genuine student and not using the visa as a way to enter the UK for other reasons.

Failure to Disclose Relevant Information

If you fail to disclose important details, such as previous visa refusals, criminal convictions, or other relevant facts, UKVI can refuse your application. Honesty and full disclosure are crucial in the application process.

What Happens If Your Student Visa Is Refused After Receiving a CAS?

If your visa is refused, UKVI will send you a refusal letter (Notice of Decision), explaining why your application was unsuccessful. This letter will also mention whether you have the right to an administrative review.

You have a few options at this point:

• Apply for an administrative review if you believe the refusal was due to a caseworker error.
  
  

• Submit a fresh visa application, addressing the reasons for your refusal.
  
  

• Contact your university or college, as they may be able to help or issue a new CAS if necessary.
  
  

It's essential to act quickly and seek advice from an immigration advisor or solicitor if you're unsure about your next steps.

How to Avoid a UK Student Visa Refusal After Receiving a CAS

To reduce the risk of a visa refusal, follow these important tips:

1. Double-check your financial documents. Ensure they meet the UKVI’s strict requirements regarding the amount, source, format, and duration the funds have been held.
   
   

2. Prepare for your credibility interview. Research your course, university, and career plans thoroughly so you can confidently explain your choices.
   
   

3. Submit all required documents accurately. Use the UKVI checklist and your CAS statement as a guide to ensure nothing is missing or incorrect.
   
   

4. Be honest and consistent throughout your application and interview process.
   
   

5. Use an experienced immigration advisor if you’re unsure about any part of the process or have a complicated immigration history.
   
   

Final Thoughts

While receiving a CAS from a UK university is a significant step in your journey to study abroad, it does not automatically guarantee a student visa. The UKVI has its own criteria and will carefully assess your application against immigration rules. Many students mistakenly believe that the CAS alone secures their visa, but as we’ve seen, several factors can still lead to a refusal.

By understanding the potential pitfalls and taking steps to prepare a strong, well-documented, and honest application, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome.