Many Ukrainians in the UK are interested in pursuing higher education under the Ukraine visa schemes. EERC prepared a short guide on your studies in the UK.
1. Can I study on a Ukrainian Visa Scheme?
Yes. While your Ukraine visa scheme visa is valid, you can apply for and attend UK universities or colleges.
You can also apply for financial support in many cases (you need to check this in each case with the university/college)
2. Tuition Fees: Home or International?
Most universities offer home fee status to students on Ukrainian visas. This means:
You pay the same as UK citizens, not the higher international rate.
For more information on eligibility for home student status, Support for students from Ukraine in UK higher education
You may also be eligible for student finance (loans and maintenance support).
Eligible students from Ukraine in the UK under the Ukraine schemes may be entitled to a range of support, including free tuition, tuition fee loans, maintenance loans, grants and/or bursaries, and additional allowances related to their individual circumstances, for example if they have a disability.
Each university may have specific policies regarding fee status and visa changes. It's essential to consult your university's guidelines and seek advice from their international student office.
The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) also provides information on fees and funding and has a dedicated student advice helpline for discussing individual circumstances: UKCISA's international student advice line
3. What If My Visa Expires During My Course?
If your visa is due to expire while you're studying, you do not need to leave immediately. Instead:
You can:
Apply for an extension (e.g., under UPES, for 18 more months).
Switch to another visa (like a Student visa or Skilled Worker visa).
Please note that you need to inform your student office about any changes to your immigration status.
4. Switching to a Student visa mid-course
If you switch to a Student visa during your studies:
You must inform your university immediately.
You can often keep your home fee status for the same course if the switch happens before your Ukrainian visa expires. Please contact your college/university in each case
Your access to student finance or public funds may change, as the Student visa usually doesn’t allow benefits.
We recommend consulting your university’s international student support office and a certified immigration adviser before switching the visa.
If you need help or information, please contact our helpline 07718612218 (Ukrainian / Russian / English) or email us at info@eerc.org.uk