To study in the United Kingdom for more than six months, Moroccan students need a Student visa. It is applied for online on GOV.UK once the university has issued your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Key takeaways
- The CAS, issued by your university, is the starting point of the application.
- Funds for tuition and living costs must usually be held for 28 consecutive days before you apply.
- Residents of Morocco need a tuberculosis test certificate from an approved clinic.
- You pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge online.
The steps of the Student visa
- Accept an unconditional offer and pay any deposit the university requires.
- Receive your CAS and check every detail (name, course, dates, fees).
- Take the tuberculosis test at an approved clinic in Morocco.
- Apply online on GOV.UK, pay the fee and the health surcharge.
- Give your biometrics at the visa application centre, or use the identity app when offered.
- Wait for the decision and follow the instructions on how your visa is issued.
Documents usually requested
- A valid passport.
- Your CAS number and the documents used to obtain the offer.
- Bank statements showing the required funds for 28 days, in your name or your parents' with proof of the relationship and their consent.
- The tuberculosis test certificate.
- Proof of English level when your university or course requires it, such as IELTS for UKVI.
- An ATAS certificate for some science and technology subjects.
Need the right English test? See our IELTS preparation in Marrakech.
Common reasons for refusal
- Financial documents that are incomplete, too recent or inconsistent with the declared sponsor.
- A study project that is hard to follow: a program with no link to previous studies, or vague career plans.
- Missing translations or documents that do not match each other (names, dates, amounts).
- Applying too late, so that the appointment or the decision comes after the start of classes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 28-day rule?
The required funds must stay in the account for at least 28 consecutive days, and the last statement must be recent when you apply. A single day below the amount can lead to a refusal.
When can I apply?
From outside the UK, you can usually apply up to six months before the start of your course, once you have the CAS. Apply early in the summer to avoid the September rush.
Do I need the IELTS for UKVI?
Not always: for degree-level courses, universities can assess your English themselves. For some courses below degree level, a Home Office approved test is required. Your CAS states how your English was assessed.
How ProTrain can help
ProTrain helps Moroccan students build a complete and consistent student visa file, prepare the financial documents with their parents and get ready for the appointment or interview, through our student visa support. See also our United Kingdom page, or book a consultation in Guéliz, Marrakech, or online.
Official sources
- GOV.UK: Student visa: eligibility, money, documents and fees.
- GOV.UK: tuberculosis tests: countries concerned and approved clinics.