Transcript of Visa Advice and International Office Web Chat 7th May 2014 11.00-12.30 BST

International Office: Welcome to the chat. We will start at 11 International Office: Please read the instructions on the left and we will

start at 11. International Office: Welcome to our Adviser Azadeh from the International

Student Support Office Azadeh - Adviser: Hi I am Azadeh, looking forward to answering your

questions International Webchat - University accommodation:

Hi my name is Mario, thank you very much for your time

International Office: Hi Mario- would you like to ask the first question? Anitah Azairwe: Good afternoon Azadeh,about the visa booking do we

do it in our countries of origin or the university helps us out. Thanks

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Anitah, you must book your appointment yourself International Webchat - University accommodation: ¿can i use my toefl certificate to apply for my tier 4 visa? International Office: You can find the latest information on TOEFL here :

http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164 It should answer all your questions. tabasom: good morning, I am an International student currently

studying A Levels in the UK. I have a residence permit card which will be valid until 13/08/2014. As I am an Iranian student and we don't have a UK embassy in my country is it possible to leave the UK for my summer holidays and return in 1st Aug to do my visa in the UK (I will receive my results on 15th Aug)

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Tabasom, leaving the UK after completion of your course is risky, I would advise to apply from Turkey or Dubai for new visa to re-enter the UK

International Webchat - University accommodation: Yes, i been reading the news related to the Toefl test and I took mine on May 29

International Office: If you have an offer to study at the University of Sheffield, and have met the English language requirements by completing a TOEFL qualification outside the UK on or before 16 April 2014- you are fine!

Yash Hardowar: Hi Azadeh, I would like to know as a student how many hours am allowed to work? Yash Hardowar

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Yash, on Tier 4 visa, you are allowed to work 20 hours per week during term-time and full time during vacation time

International Webchat - University accommodation: But I don’t know if I can still use it for my tier 4 visa application

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi, having a UK address for Tier 4 visa from outside the UK is not required

Santiago Velez: Good morning everyone. My name is Santiago and I’m from Ecuador. I would like to know more about the English requirement. I’ll be taken the IELTs exam this next May 17 , so what if I don’t get the score required?

International Office: Hi Santiago! In order to guarantee entry to the university, you should meet the IELTS conditions on your offer. If you are slightly below the requirements, I would recommend that you submit your IELTS for review by the department, by uploading your scores to your online applications. It will be to the discretion of the department if you they make you an unconditional offer.

Mahdi Sadeqi: I am from Iran...From which country do you recommend that I apply for a visa?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Mahdi, you can apply from Turkey or Dubai, wherever is more convenient for you

Anitah Azairwe: so how do i go about it because am in Uganda, which Embassy do i go to?

Azadeh - Adviser: Anitah, you need to apply through UK embassy in Uganda

Santiago Velez: Until what date can i submit my test score, the university have already offered me a conditional place

Heather - International Office: Hi Santiago, you can submit your language scores whenever you have these. You must make sure however that you meet all your conditions of offer with enough time to apply for CAS or visa on-time to start your course in September

International Webchat - University accommodation: ok thank you very much Heather - International Office: =-) Yash Hardowar: Thank you Azadeh Heather - International Office: =-) tabasom: Thank you. Can I ask when I will be able to get a CAS

letter from uni? International Office: Hi Tabasom- please note that we will issue your CAS

number approximately 3 months before the start date of your course. You cannot apply for a student visa more than 3 months before your course begins.

Heather - International Office: My name is Heather and I am here to support Danielle and Azadeh in answering your questions today

Heather - International Office: Please try and stick to the topic of visa and if you have any other questions about Sheffield, we will provide you with an email address at the end of the chat to ask these questions!

Naveed Javed: Saving Certificated can be used as a proof of financial statement?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Naveed, if the money is readily available to you then yes, see the following link for requirements, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas - read the financial section of the guidance

Yash Hardowar: Azadeh- I would also want to know if I can have work placement during the entire three years of my course. I have applied for a BEng Civil Engineering

International Office: Hi Yash- If you are interested in a work placement, you will need to contact your Department directly. You are only permitted to work 20 hours of PAID work in the UK on a Tier 4 visa. We cannot advise any further on placement opportunities.

M.nour: Next month, I would apply for CAS number. I have a valid passport, but with an old address, not the current one as I have recently changed my home address. So, Should i write my old address in CAS application to be the same as in my passport or I have to change my passport 1st with current address before application for CAS number ??? As i am little worried about this issue when i am going to apply for Tier4 Visa.

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi M. Nour, you must write and provide your latest and valid address (not the old one) for University and your UK visa

Aditya: Hello, when will the CAS application email arrive? It has been more than 7 working days since I accepted the offer. Just would like to know when I could expect the email.

Heather - International Office: If you have accepted an unconditional offer with us, and have paid your tuition fee deposit if the course is a postgraduate taught course (masters), you will then be emailed with details of how to apply for CAS no more than 3 months before the start of your course date. This is normally about the end June/start July for late September starts.

Naveed Javed: Saving Certificates can be used as a proof of finacial statement for getting 10 points for visa for the financial proof?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Naveed, if the money is readily available to you then yes, see the following link for requirements, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas - read the financial section of the guidance

Anitah Azairwe: Azadeh thanks so much, on the other hand am still waiting to hear from sheffield university for a scholarship end of May, am I still in the time limit to apply for a visa

Azadeh - Adviser: You can start your visa application 3 months prior course start date, not earlier so, yes you are in the time limit if starting Master course.

International Webchat - University accommodation: How long does it take the tier 4 visa process Azadeh - Adviser: It depends on the UK embassy in your area, check their

website please Santiago Velez: Excuse me it means that in case that I’m slightly below, I

can be admitted. Let me tell you that I already have a letter indicating the conditional offer

International Office: Hi Santiago- we really cannot advise any further on IELTS. If your offer is still conditional, then the Department is waiting for you to achieve your required results.

Badar: Hi. I have an Unconditional offer and I accepted the offer last week. I also attached my funding letter from a sponsor. When do I apply for CAS and Visa?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Badar, once you have your CAS then you can start to your visa application and only submit it 3 months prior course start date, not earlier

Aditya: Thank you, Heather Heather - International Office: =-) tabasom: So is it possible to get a CAS letter from uni before I get

my results? I have already got a conditional offer but will receive my results on 15 and the start date for my course is in September .. so when would university give me a CAS letter.

International Office: Hi Tabasom- please note that you cannot receive a CAS number before you have met the conditions of your offer. You will get your CAS number no more than 3 months before the start date of your course, and once all conditions have been met.

Camila: Thanks. The only problem is that I have to put the funds on my account and wait 28 days to start my application... otherwise will be refused.. so I would apply in the end of June. Is that a problem?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Camila, yes, you must make sure the funds were in your account for 28 days before submitting your visa application

Azadeh - Adviser: Applying by end of June should be OK Ana Zavala Guillén: Good morning. I will start my PhD in November 2014.

When will I receive the CAS? Heather - International Office: You will receive your CAS number only when you have

an unconditional accepted offer with Sheffield and normally no more than 3 months in advance of your course, so likely you will be emailed about how to apply for CAS from July time. You need to keep a close eye on your emails as you will be sent an email with instructions you will need to follow to get CAS. IF you do not receive an email by mid-July and you have your unconditional accepted offer, then please email pbsapply@sheffield.ac.uk

Jazmin: Hi Azadeh, Hi, I just have a question in relation to the funding requirements of the tier 4 visa. I will be getting paid more than the 800 pounds required to have per month (approximately 1000 pounds) while I am completing my study (from paid leave entitlements). I have only read that you are required to have the total amount of funds in your bank account prior to applying for a visa (800 x the number of months you are staying in the UK).Will I still be granted a visa under these conditions? I will be able to obtain a letter from my

employer as to the amounts they are required to pay me over this time. Is this sufficient?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Jazmin, The money must be in your account for 28 days, if applying on/before 30th June then you must show £7200 for maintenance plus tuition fees for 28 days in your account. If applying on/after 1st July 2014 then you must maintain £7380 for maintenance for 28 days plus tuition fees - money from employment is not acceptable

Camila: Great! Thank you very much. For the CAS, should I ask for it now or just when I intend to apply ? ( end of June)

International Office: Hi Camila- please note that we will send you more information on the CAS approximately 3 months before the start date of your course. You will need to verify all your details using an online CAS portal. Then you will have the number ready for when you are ready to apply for your visa.

David: Besides tuition fees, how much money should I demonstrate or have in my account in order to get a visa?

Azadeh - Adviser: £7200 for maintenance if applying on or before 30th June, £7380 for maintenance if applying on or after 1st July 2014, kept in your account for 28 days

kruthika: Hi! I’m kruthika and i have got a conditional offer. My results will be out in 10 days. I want to know what are the documents required for visa application and when will be the last day for applying visa for September in take ?

Azadeh - Adviser: Kruthika, please see the link, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas You must check with UK embassy for visa process time and be able to arrive in UK for start of your course

Víctor: Hi. About the UKVI not accepting the toefl anymore. I took the exam in Mexico City last June. will they accept it of not? Some websites say they will, some others say they won't; UKVI website is not. Will my CAS state that you've already assessed my English level? Thanks.

International Office: Hi Victor- you can find the latest information on TOEFL on our website: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164 As you will see, TOEFL tests taken outside of the UK before 16 April 2014 will be accepted by the university of Sheffield and the UKVI.

Ana Zavala Guillén: Thank you, Heather! My passport number was recently changed. Shall I inform this situation?

Heather - International Office: I would suggest you upload a new copy of your passport to your on-line application, or if you cannot do this, then email a copy to Admissions (shefapply@sheffield.ac.uk). If you send it via email you must include your full name, applicant number, course and date of birth in the email,

but we prefer students to upload this to their on-line application where possible as we are notified of this automatically.

Kunsa: Hello Azadeh, my name is Paul Kunsa and am from Uganda. well this will be my first time to study outside Uganda, my question is what circumstances will the UK embassy not offer me a tier 4 visa?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Kunsa, if you do not meet the financial requirements or not submit relevant documents that are required, please see the following link for more information on what documents you need to submit,

http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas camila: Great, but the only problem is that I intend to renew my

passport first, so I have to send the details of my new passport because that is gonna be the one that I will use to apply for the new visa... Who should I contact about the CAS?

International Office: Hi Camila- We would recommend that you wait to complete the online CAS portal, which will be sent to you when the process begins, until you have received your new passport. The details on your passport need to match the details on your electronic CAS number.

Alaa Haddad: Dear Admissions, I received a conditional offer few months ago, and eventually, I did a TOEFL IBT test on the 27th of April, and I received the scores last night, meeting the requirements of the English language; However, I heard that UK Border Agency won't accept TOEFL IBT anymore, which is really distressing and frustrating ; Therefore, I really need your advice, as the test cost money, and I was fully prepared that I scored 96, in addition to the fact that we have no IELTS test in my city (Sulaimaniyah), that's why I did the TOEFL in the first place, and I honestly find the decision was made regarding the unacceptance of TOEFL is quit unfair.

Heather - International Office: We appreciate everyone's concerns over TOEFL and the recent UKVI changes. Unfortunately as this is a UKVI decision, the University must follow their rules too. The University has put a clear Q&A guidance here for all students to refer to: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164 As you have re-taken your test after 17 April 2014, you will need to take another recognised English test as listed on the web links above. Unfortunately we are unable to accept your most recent TOEFL due to UKVI requirements.

tabasom: ok thank you very much. As I am currently in the UK I'd like to extend my visa from the UK. I am wondering if the university can help me to fill my application or not?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi tabasom, we can help you to complete your form if you intend to study with us and have a CAS from us, please see the following link for more information,

http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/uk

Mohamed Nader: Hello, I am from Egypt and have an unconditional offer for Msc. degree. Before applying for the Visa must i have the total fees for the course (£18070) plus living expenses (£7200) in my bank account? what if the money is scheduled to be with me through instalments and not one batch?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Mohamed, you must show the money is readily available to you and in your name, are you sponsored student (government sponsored)? If not then you must maintain the total amount in your bank account for 28 days. See the following link for sponsored student, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas

David: Azadeh: Will my fee deposit be deducted from this value?

International Office: Hi David- your electronic CAS number will indicate any fee deposits, accommodation deposits or scholarships you are entitled to. The UKVI will see what you have already paid to the University and will not ask to see these funds in your account.

Víctor: As I said, UKVI site doesn't really state it that way. International Office: Hi Victor- we take all of our advice directly from the

UKVI. We cannot make decisions independently. Santiago Velez: I’m actually, in UK, Can i do all the visa tramit here

without leaving the country? Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Velez, if your next course starts within 28 days from

visa expiry date then yes you can applying from within the UK

Fahad: Hi, I'm applying for a taught MSc course. Will I have problems with Home office because I already completed a 5 year MEng course in the same subject?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Fahad, are you able to send an email to us with more information - International.students@sheffield.ac.uk Please include your full name and your admission number.

camila: ahh, so I will have to complete the online CAS portal before they send the CAS. Great, so I renew my passport this month so when I have to complete my CAS I have all the details of the new passport. Perfect. Thank you very much.

International Office: Our pleasure! Zahraa: Hello everyone International Office: Hi Zahraa- please post any questions you have on

student visas! International Webchat - University accommodation: Hello, I’m applying for a

scholarship but i won’t get the results until the 2 of august, ¿would i still have time to obtain my tier 4 visa?

Heather - International Office: It will depend on how long it takes to get a visa appointment and get visa in your country. You'd need to have an unconditional accepted offer, have paid any

deposit and us have received this if it's a masters course and then have had time to get your CAS. I believe getting the CAS takes up to a week once you've paid your deposit and we have received this, and provided you follow all the instructions on time. So it is possible, but you need to check how long it'll take to get VISA in your country to be sure.

Ignatius Nti-Abankoro: My name is Ignatius Nti-Abankoro from Ghana. I hold an

unconditional offer on the MA Governance and Public Policy. I have accepted the offer and was given a 1500pounds fee reduction by the international office. How do I get my CAS

International Office: Hi Ignatius- please note that CAS numbers will only be issued 3 months before the start date of your course. Your CAS number will also indicate that you have received this scholarship from the university.

Badar: May I ask about Accommodation? Heather - International Office: For accommodation queries, please email

accommodation.office@sheffield.ac.uk. Today's chat is for visa only and it is therefore best for you to email the accommodation experts directly!

camila: Another problem that I have is, I have automatically received a 1500 scholarship for being a Latin American Student, and I intend to apply for the Santander Postgraduate Scholarship. If I have documents to prove this two scholarships before applying for the visa, can I deduct this amount on the tuition fee so I don’t have to prove that i have the full amount?

International Office: Hi Camila- please note that your CAS number will show all the scholarships you have received from the University. The automatic scholarships will appear straight away on your CAS statement, as you do not need to apply for it. The Santander information can be added retrospectively if you receive your CAS before you have the results of the scholarships.

Jazmin: Okay, thank you. I will start sorting that out now in that case.

International Office: Jazmin- great! Zahraa: I would like to ask about the TB test, I have

unconditional offer (four weeks pre-sessional course + academic course) do I need to take the test??

Heather - International Office: Please see the information on these web pages regarding TB testing and who needs to have this done: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/tb

tarek: Hi. I'm Tarek and I was given a conditional offer where the only condition is to satisfy the English language requirements. I emailed the admissions team stating that I took the TOEFL IBT test last year where I scored 90 and I mentioned my scores in each subsection. I was told that I needed to retake the TOEFL IBT, as the

minimum score for the speaking section is 20 whereas I scored 19, but my other skills scores and the overall score were fine. I've booked the TOEFL IBT test for June 2014 however recently I received an email from the university that the TOEFL IBT is no longer considered by the British Government and by the University of Sheffield. I'm currently in Turkey and I need a visa to enter the UK but I'm hoping to be in the UK around August on a different visa that also allow me to study. Will the University of Sheffield change the status of my offer to unconditional if I satisfied the English requirements in my planned TOEFL IBT test in Turkey?

Heather - International Office: No. We cannot accept TOEFL qualifications completed on or after 17 April 2014, as per the UKVI changes. If your TOEFL IBT test is planned for after 17 April 2014 and you will need the TOEFL to meet your English conditions, you will need to take an alternative test due to the changes made by the UKVI. Please refer to the following web page for more information and alternative tests we can accept: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164

Abraham: For the 20 hrs that the visa allow you to work is restricted in any way? And by that i mean if you can work in your field as engineer or just as bartender and that type of jobs

Azadeh - Adviser: Dear Abraham, you must check UK Visa and Immigration website regarding this

M.nour: Does UK embassy make an interview with international applicant as a must for getting Tier4 Visa??

Azadeh - Adviser: It seems the credibility interviews are now for every country so, you may be called for an interview

SimonS: Hi. I'm getting a scholarship providing me a monthly amount of money while studying in Sheffield. Is it required to have the mentioned amount of money in my account or is ok to show I'll get the money while I'm in the UK?

International Office: Hi Simon- if you are a sponsored student, you will need to show a financial guarantee from your sponsor to show what living allowance they will be providing.

Víctor: I've read that when the CAS is issued, it states whether or not the applicant's English level has Ben assessed. Is that true? Even if it says so, do i need to provide proof of my English level when applying to the tier 4?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Victor, you must submit whatever English certificate that is mentioned on your CAS with your visa application, that certificate must be original

. David: Thank you very much! International Office: David- you are welcome! kruthika: What type of visa do the student's parent need to visit

their child 4 times in a year ? Azadeh - Adviser: Kruthika, they can enter the UK on General Visitor visa

Alaa Haddad: But I booked the TOEFL on the 6th of April, which is before the UKBA changes, in this case I had no idea about the changes. As well as, I really need the unconditional offer very soon for various reasons, as I am applying for a scholarship, and there is a deadline for submitting the unconditional offer. So if I received the unconditional offer, I can arrange another test later for the Visa application.

Heather - International Office: Unfortunately, this is the case for a number of students. The University appreciates this, but must follow the UKBA rules for visa. We cannot unfortunately issue unconditional offers if students do not meet the conditions of offer, even for scholarship applications. Please do refer to this information about recent UKBA changes and TOEFL: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164

Mohamed Nader: I am not sponsored yet, i should have the decision regarding my sponsorship by 1st July. which is also a problem because i am required to pay the deposit fee (£1000) by 09 June for the University to start my CAS application, if so can the deadline (09 June) be pushed further so that I can have more information on my funding?

International Office: Hi Mohamed- you can ask for an extension to pay your tuition fee deposit. Please email pgtfeedeposits@sheffield.ac.uk and explain your situation. If you are sponsored, you will not need to pay the deposit.

Camila: Sorry, I did not understand the Santander scholarship part. If I have applied for it it will show on my CAS even if I do not have the result yet? So, does that mean that I will only have to prove the amount that appears on my CAS? sorry.. I am a bit confused

Azadeh - Adviser: Camila, if this is mentioned on your CAS that you are in receipt of this scholarship then you can deduct it from the total required fund. If not mentioned and is not allocated to you yet then yes, you must show the full amount in your bank account

kruthika: Do i have to apply for the visa through travel agencies in India ?

International Office: Hi Krithika- You do not need to apply for your visa through an agent, you can apply yourself. This is your choice.

Midhat Zaidi: Hello, I have been accepted at the University of Sheffield for the Masters in Journalism course. I have applied through the Chevening scholarship programme and my funding has yet to come through, as this may take another two weeks or so, do you think my offer will remain valid for the period? I will have to apply for the visa and immigration through Chevening foundation as well. Another question is regarding my English language requirement. I took my TOEFL exam on the

13th of April and scored 110 in it, will that be valid for my admissions?

Heather - International Office: If you have completed TOEFL and have the results before 17 April as per the information on the web pages you should be fine to use this and can submit your results to us via your on-line application (http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164). It should be fine to wait for the results of your scholarship before you pay any deposit required for CAS.

Ignatius Nti-Abankoro: This session is very enlightening, kudos to the great team at the International Office

International Office: We are pleased it is helpful! tabasom: How long after my residence permit has been expired

can I stay in the UK to extend my visa? Azadeh - Adviser: You must not let your visa expire so you must apply

before visa expiry date Aditya: For the TB testing, does my requirement depend on the

country I currently reside or my nationality? Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Aditia, please check this webpage for TB testing,

https://www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa Ana Zavala Guillén: I was awarded the University Prize scholarship, which it

covers full tuition fees (UK, EU or Overseas)an annual, tax-free maintenance stipend of £20,000a Research Training Support Grant of £2,500 per year for study visits, conferences, books, consumables and equipment. Is this sufficient as proof of financial guarantee?

International Office: Hi Ana- yes, this would cover all of your costs! Congratulations on obtaining the University Prize!!!

Hadi: Hi according to the your updating website for TOEFL, I am confused between Q2 and Q3, where that answer of Q2 showed you will accept the TOEFL which on or after 17 April. Could you explain that please?

Heather - International Office: I believe this means that all TOEFL completed on or after 17 April 2014 will not be valid, due to the recent changes in UKBA. Students who have TOEFL completed before this date should be able to use their TOEFL scores as the government have made allowances for this, given that the new rules have come in part-way through the year. If you have further queries on the TOEFL we would suggest contacting Admissions: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/aid/contact

Badar: Do I need to pay the deposit when I am a sponsored student by my government?

International Office: Hi Badar- no, you do not need to pay a deposit, however you do need to send us proof of your sponsorship. You can send a scanned copy to pgtfeedeposits@sheffield.ac.uk

kruthika: I have got a conditional offer. Can i start my visa applications now or should i wait for the conditional offer ?

Azadeh - Adviser: You should apply once you have your CAS

Mohamed Nader: My offer from Sheffield is unconditional because i have IGCSE English language from high school. I am also taking IELTS in 10 days, can i use the IELTS for my CAS instead of my IGCSE since the certificate will be much easier to obtain than my 7 years old high school certificate?

Heather - International Office: You should be able to use your IELTS if it would meet the relevant entry requirements for the course you have applied to. Please do check with Admissions who will confirm this for you before you apply for CAS, as they will need to look into this for you: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/aid/contact

Zahraa: How much time the CAS issuing procedures take place??

International Office: Hi Zahraa- the actual CAS process is not very long. It should be approximately 1 week as long as you provide all the information requested. This will vary depending on the time of year.

Nasar Saeed: I have done IELTS with 6 band and university offered my offer letter with condition to meet IELTS 7 band then now what i should do know because if i apply for IELTS now it will take minimum 1 and half month

Heather - International Office: You must meet the English language requirement set out in your offer to be able to come to the University of Sheffield. You would still have time to come to Sheffield if your next IELTS test is in 1/2 months' time.

Abraham: If I'm a sponsored student but the scholarship cannot cover the totally of the tuition, can i apply for the Santandar scholarship?

International Office: Hi Abraham: This is the link to the Santander Scholarship: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/money/santander

tabasom: but the problem is that my visa gonna be expired on 13th Aug and I have a conditional offer and I will receive my results on 15th Aug so what should I do?

Azadeh - Adviser: I am afraid you must apply from outside the UK if you won't get your CAS before 13th Aug.

International Web chat - University accommodation: If I’m been sponsored by my government i don’t need to paid the deposit fee to get the CAS number

International Office: No, you do not need to pay a deposit if you are sponsored. You just need to send your sponsorship letter to pgtfeedeposits@sheffield.ac.uk

Shuya: hello. I'm from Singapore. I just made a decision for an offer from Sheffield and now waiting for CAS. Probably when may I receive it? Because I need to get the Visa by this month by some reason and I don’t have much time.

Heather - International Office: When is your course due to start? CAS is issued no more than 3 months before the start of the course, so September starters will normally get their CAS around June/July time

tarek: Thank you very much International Office: Our pleasure! Aditya: For proof of maintenance and funding, if we are being

funded by family, must we show the money in our back account or that of our parents?

Azadeh - Adviser: You can use your bank account or your parents bank accounts only, see the following link for required documents if using parent's bank account - http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas

kruthika: Thank you have a good day. Heather - International Office: =-) Víctor: I'm only partially funded by Mexico's CONACYT.

According with cooperation agreement, the university'd cover any shortage in the tuition fees amount. will this be specified in my CAS? Will it suffice to the UKVI as prove that I'm covering the full amount

International Office: Hi Victor- if you are receiving the full grant from CONACYT, the University of Sheffield will cover the remainder of your fees. As long as you provide us with your sponsorship letter from CONACYT which indicated the amount you will receive from CONACYT, we will add special wording to your CAS to show that no tuition fees need to be paid. We welcome many, many CONACYT students every year- do not worry, we will make sure you have everything you need!

Cesar Molina: The CAS has not been sent. I have paid the deposit fee. I believe that these will be sent in May ..Could you please confirm. I have a unconditional offer for a masters course that starts in September ..Thanks

Heather - International Office: If you have a September start date a CAS email will be sent to you no more than 3 months before the start of your course, so late June/July time

Faraz Ahmad: hello, my name is Faraz and I am from Pakistan. I have been offered a place for PhD. I have applied for University scholarships and waiting for the outcome. I need to ask you if I get the half funding through scholarship then how much money do I have to show in my bank statement in order to apply for Visa. Will that amount be for three years or just for the first year?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Faraz, once your funds are confirmed, it must be mentioned on CAS or submit official letter with your visa application, you can then show the shortfall in your bank account for 28 days before applying for visa. You need to show the 1st year tuition fees plus £7380 for maintenance

Shuya: It will start on Sep.... Heather - International Office: If your course begins in September, you will be issued

CAS around the end June/beginning of July. If you have applied for a postgraduate taught course, you will need to have paid your deposit before you would be emailed details of how to apply for CAS

Mohamed Nader: How long will the tier 4 Visa be issued for the 1 year Master courses? how much time before and after our studies will be allowed? i have visited the Visa and immigrations website and what i could conclude is that i am allowed to arrive 1 month before my studies and leave 4 months after, is that true?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi, see this link please http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/duration Ana Zavala Guillén: Thank you very much! I am very happy indeed. I have

one last question. I have a fiance and I would like that he can spend some time with me in the UK. He is from Colombia and he needs visa for visiting the UK. Can he obtain a special permission for visiting me or it is just the regular visa procedure?

International Office: Hi Ana- he will need to go through the normal procedure to apply for a visa. However, if you visit our Student Advice Centre when you are in the UK, they can give you help on how to invite friends and family to the UK. They also have information on their website: http://www.shef.ac.uk/union/student-advice-centre/immigration/family-and-friends/

tabasom: thank you have a nice day . International Office: Thank you! Víctor: thanks a lot! You’re doing a great job here, guys!!! Heather - International Office: =-) Zahraa: Thank you, I send my sponsorship letter to admission

office last earlier this week and my course starts three months from now on 11/8 when can I receive it?? a second issue, the office did not request any information from but they send me a pre-registration email with a number of things to do is that enough ?? or I must contact them

International Office: Hi Zahraa- if you have received your pre-registration CAS email, then you are on the correct path. Please follow the instructions carefully and they will send you a CAS number when everything is complete.

Badar: I am intending to bring my wife and 2 children with me to Sheffield, What procedures do I need to do regarding Visas?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Badar, please see the following link for more information - http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/dependants

Kinda: Hi. I am from Jordan and I am waiting for the chevening scholarship fund. I have already got an unconditional offer from Sheffield University and my IELTS is 7.5.Since the scholarship is funded by the UK government, does that make my visa application easier or different

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Kinda,

It is impossible to answer, if you meet and submit all the relevant documents and meet all the requirements then you should not be refused visa but it all depends on visa officers.

Faraz Ahmad: Thanks Azadeh! Heather - International Office: =-) M.nour: can I use both my bank account and my parents bank

account at the same time when i apply for Tier 4 Visa?? Azadeh - Adviser: Yes you can Shuya: I have applied for the undergraduate that combines

with mater, is there anything I should prepare for applying for CAS?

International Office: Hi Shuya- this will not make a difference. You should receive a CAS for the duration of your course.

Hadi: Hi I would like to know if I can get the unconditional offer by TOFEL and the Visa by other certificate

International Office: Hi Hadi- if you have taken your TOEFL IBT outside of the UK and before 16 April 2014 then it is valid: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164 For a full list of tests we accept, see: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/info/englang

Santiago Velez: Dear Heather: i would like to study at Sheffield University, however, Brunel University have offered me a place as well. the fact is that in case that i apply for the UK visa with a CAS of them, then can i change and study with you until i have completed my English performance before start the course?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Velez, you can apply for visa for them but be aware that we cannot register you unless you applied and used CAS from Univ. of Sheffield

Zahraa: thank you so much but it was a pre-registration email not a CAS pre-registration email is that the same??

Ana Zavala Guillén: and it would be different if we get married? International Office: If you are married, then your spouse could join you as a

dependent if you meet all the criteria. Again, there is more advice on this through the Student Advice Centre http://www.shef.ac.uk/union/student-advice-centre/immigration/family-and-friends/bringing-your-family-to-the-uk.htm

Kinda: Thank u Azadeh Heather - International Office: =-) M.nour: Thanks Azadeh for your help Heather - International Office: =-) Mohamed Nader: what would the situation be if i was unable to go to the

UK to start my course on its scheduled date (Sep 2014) and would like my application to be changed for the following year (Sep 2015) to allow for more time to prepare, will the offer be withdrawn and i have to start the application process again or will the offer i have be revised for the new date?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Mohamed, could you send an email to shefapply@sheffield.ac.uk to discuss your options

International Webchat - University accommodation: Hello, I’m applying for the CONACYT scholarship from México, until i get it then should i send the letter to get the CAS number?

International Office: If you have not yet receiving your confirmation from CONACYT, you would in theory need to pay your tuition fee deposit to get your CAS. We would not recommend this route, as you will then need to apply for a refund. Also, your CAS number would not show any of the funding which is being paid by the University of Sheffield. If you are a fully funded CONACYT student, you do not need to pay any tuition fees (this would be indicated on the CAS if you send proof of your scholarship), and if you are partially funded by CONACYT you would receive a discount from the University. Does that help?

Ana Zavala Guillén: It has been very helpful. Thank you very much! Have a lovely day

Heather - International Office: =-) prithiv kumar: I want to bring my partner to UK, as I have got 12

months or more sponsored study. What is the procedure?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi, check the following link, http://www.shef.ac.uk/union/student-advice-centre/immigration/family-and-friends/ or UK embassy's webpage Shuya: ok. Thank you Heather - International Office: =-) Santiago Velez: thanks you very much Azadeh so kind of you Heather - International Office: =-) Ayah: Hi, I firmly accepted the university on UCAS and my IB

grades will be out on July 5th but when should i start applying for visa as an international student?

Azadeh - Adviser: You can only apply for visa 3 months prior your course start date (once you have your CAS) not earlier

Mohamed Nader: finally i just want to say that i am truly ecstatic to be offered the chance to come to Sheffield and i truly wish to be able to come in this year and start my course! this session was very helpful and i am glad of the support offered excellent you so much Azadeh and Heather for your help! Hope to see you soon

International Office: Many thanks! We look forward to welcoming you to Sheffield!!!

stephanie.az: hello Heather - International Office: Hi Stephanie, feel free to ask your questions about

visas! There is just under 40 minutes left to chat today. stephanie.az: should i apply for a CAS number? Or would i receive it

automatically? International Office: Hi Stephanie- Once you have an unconditional offer,

and have paid your deposit (Masters students only), you will automatically be sent an email to complete our

online CAS portal. You do not need to request a CAS number.

International Webchat - University accommodation: Then, until i get the CONACyT scholarship by the 2 of august, then should i apply for the CAS number

stephanie.az: i paid through bank transfer, how long would it take for me to receive the CAS?

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi, CAS are issued 3 months before course start date. stephanie.az: and is there a link that tells me what are the steps to

apply for a student UK visa? Azadeh - Adviser: See this link, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas prithiv kumar: university is providing with dependent sponsor, they

should i show support for my partner? Azadeh - Adviser: Hi, can you elaborate a bit more please? International Webchat - University accommodation:

Ok, thank you very much for your time and for all the answers from all of you, you have been a great help, I’m very looking forward to see all off the team, thank you very much

International Office: You are very welcome! Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions at all!

prithiv kumar: Sorry If university is given funding for dependent as well, then should I show the support for my partner? Funding wise?

Azadeh - Adviser: If you sponsored financially by University of Sheffield then and it only covers your maintenance or tuition fees or both then you must show the funds for dependant/s in your own bank account for 28 days

Psp: Hello, my course starts in September. Would I need to apply for Tier 4 Visa each time I come to the UK every year? If so, would I need to demonstrate my English each time?

International Office: Hi Psp- Please note that your visa would be valid for the duration of your course and you would only need to provide proof of English with this first and only application.

sheron ho: Should I apply for Visa after I get my I have and unconditional offer?

International Office: Hi Sheron- you can apply for your visa once you receive an unconditional offer from the university and a CAS number. You will also need to be certain you have all the documents required to apply for your visa.

prithiv kumar: My course is fully funded by University of Sheffield, I

applied for dependent sponsor and university has agreed upon looking for sponsoring my dependent, in that case should I show funds to support my sponsor as well for my visa?

Azadeh - Adviser: It depends how much they are paying for dependant/s, check the following webpage in case you need to provide the shortfall yourself.

http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/dependants Ayah: Just for confirmation- I will receive my cas number

when the grades are out, right? International Office: Hi Ayah- You will receive your CAS number after your

offer become unconditional. Santiago Velez: I would like to know if the conditional place that you

have offered me expires at a certain time. i received that letter one month ago.

International Office: Hi Santiago- there is no expiration date for your offer, however you do need to accept your offer to hold your place.

Psp: Thank you very much! sheron ho: What documents do I need to prepare when apply for

Visa? Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Sharon, please see this link, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas Sucharita: Hello! International Office: Welcome! Please send us your visa questions! Badr AlGhaithi: Hello my name is Badr, i have been offered an

unconditional acceptance for my postgraduate study in MClinicalDent that starts on 29th of September, when can i start issuing my visa and travel ?

International Office: Hi Badr- Please note that three months before the start date of your course you will be sent a CAS number. Once you receive the number you can begin to apply for your student visa.

Ayah: alright, thank you (: Heather - International Office: =-) Khallad: Hello Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Khallad TamaraFreitas: Good morning!!! Azadeh - Adviser: Good afternoon Zahraa: If I come to UK with the tier 4 visa, can I visit another EU

country and come back to UK with the same visa?? International Office: Hi Zahraa- Yes, all student visas are multiple entry. This

means that you can go on holiday or home and return to the UK without applying for another visa!

sheron ho: Thank you! Khallad: Can I apply for the visa before i get my external

examination results? Azadeh - Adviser: You can only apply for Tier 4 visa once you have your

CAS Sucharita: Is it necessary to take up toefl for visa purposes? Azadeh - Adviser: Check your CAS Badar: Accommodation is going to be allocated mid-July. They

require to have a visa to apply. I hope to have enough time to get my CAS and Visa before mid-July...

International Office: Hi Badar- the time it takes to apply for a visa will be different for every country. You can apply for accommodation before receiving your visa, but it will only be confirmed once you give proof of your visa.

TamaraFreitas: Sorry about that, it's still 8 a.m. here Azadeh - Adviser: It's OK Badr AlGhaithi: what about my dependants how will i be able to issue

them their visa? Azadeh - Adviser: You must apply for them the same time as your self,

they must apply for PBS dependant visa TamaraFreitas: How long does it usually take to have a visa issued? International Office: Hi Tamara- this will vary by country. You can check

your local British Embassy web site; it may give you more information on timelines.

stephanie.az: shouldn’t i need to have already an accommodation before applying to the visa?

Heather - International Office: No, you need to have your visa in order before you will be allocated accommodation with the University. If you are yet to apply for accommodation we recommend doing so here: http://www.shef.ac.uk/accommodation

Santiago Velez: and until what day do i have to accept that offer? because as I understand i cannot decide until i have my English score.

International Office: We would recommend that you accept your offer if you are seriously considering Sheffield. If you change your mind, you can contact our Admissions Office and decline your offer on email shefapply@sheffield.

Buraq: Hello there Heather - International Office: Hi Buraq feel free to ask your questions! Badr AlGhaithi: what is the type of the visa that a student is supposed

to apply for and have from the embassy? Azadeh - Adviser: If course is shorted than 6 months then apply for

Student Visitor visa, if course is 6 months and longer then must apply for Tier 4 general student visa.

Sucharita: it doesn’t state to provide TOEFL scores in my acceptance letters. So, is it needed for visa? i haven’t taken up toefl.

International Office: Not all students need a TOEFL. It depends on your background and where you studied previously. There are different ways to prove your English ability. If you tell us a bit more on your education background, we may be able to figure it out!

Akshay Kulkarni: hi m akshay i have received conditional offer for aerospace engineering so when can apply for visa..??

Heather - International Office: You will need to have an unconditional accepted offer, and if you've applied for a masters, have then paid the deposit before you would be emailed details about how to get CAS.

stephanie.az: and does the UK student visa allows me to go to Paris

or should i apply for another visa if i come from Lebanon

Azadeh - Adviser: No your Tier 4 visa will only allow you to enter and re-enter the UK, to travel to Paris you must apply for Schenghen visa

Zahraa: Thank you so much

Heather - International Office: =-) Khallad: If a parent has applied for a visa in the past and it was

rejected, would that affect my application in any way? Azadeh - Adviser: No, but you must declare any UK visa refusal that you

had in the past prithiv kumar: my dependent already stayed in UK for a year and half

from Oct 2010 till march 2012, then what will be the requirement for visa for my dependent who is accompanying me for my studies?

Azadeh - Adviser: Are you applying for visa from inside the UK? If yes then see the following link

http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/uk/self-submit Badr AlGhaithi: apply for my dependents with the same CAS number

your sending for me u mean? International Office: Dependents do not receive a CAS number as they are

not students. For more information on bringing your family to the UK, see http://www.shef.ac.uk/union/student-advice-centre/immigration/family-and-friends/bringing-your-family-to-the-uk.htm

prithiv kumar: So Whould I show funds for her stay to? Azadeh - Adviser: You must show £7380 for your maintenance and £4140

for each of your dependants Víctor: I've received an email asking me to complete a pre-

registration process. Will you send my CAS number after I complete the pre-registration or they're two different processes? Will I be required to upload my sponsorship letter during pre-registration or do i need to email it to you? Thanks.

Azadeh - Adviser: Victor, please check with registration team directly Sucharita: hi. how long is the visa generally valid after course

completion? Azadeh - Adviser: It depends on duration of your course, see this link

please http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/duration Buraq: My question is: I'm Syrian and I live in Dubai, UAE. I've

already managed to get an unconditional offer from your side. I believe that after I get the CAS number I'll apply for the visa and meet someone from the UK embassy, Right?

Azadeh - Adviser: Dear Buraq, you must check with UK Embassy about this, we cannot confirm the steps that will be taken to issue you a UK visa

Hadi: Finally, could you (International Office, Azadeth and Heather) accept my thanks and appreciation. This chatting was actually very useful.

Azadeh - Adviser: You are most welcome, have a lovely day Akshay Kulkarni: after having my IELTS result then only i can apply for

visa..? International Office: You need to have an unconditional offer to apply for

your visa. If your offer is conditional on English, then

you need to provide us with a valid English language test http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/info/englang

Rashmi: Please let me know of the great Indian scholarship International Office: We can only answer questions on visas today. Please

see www.sheffield.ac.uk/india for more information and contact details for our India team.

Fahad: for a one year MSc course will I only have 2 months at the end of the course or will it be 4 months?

Azadeh - Adviser: Dear Fahad, check the following link please http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/duration Elidet Sanchez: hello, myname is Elidet an I´m from Mexico.. I want to

know more about the non toefl acceptance as I did it and I get notice recently so I would have to take another exam like IELTS am I correct? I havent started any visa app yet..

International Office: You can take any of the following approved English language tests: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/info/englang

prithiv kumar: my dependent already stayed in UK for a year and half from oct 2010 till march 2012, then what will be the requirement for visa for my dependent who is accompanying me for my studies? Should I show funds for her stay to?

Azadeh - Adviser: Yes, if her maintenance funds are not covered by sponsor then you must show her funds im your bank account, £460 for 9 months = £4140 for 28 days

Ayah: is it recommended that we apply for accommodation before apply for the visa?

International Office: There will be a deadline to apply for accommodation for a guaranteed place. Please see our website for more details.

TamaraFreitas: Thank you!! I am still relying on a Brazilian Program to fund all my expenses and it will take some time still. Depending on the time they answer, am I taking a risk to not have a place to stay on campus?

International Office: Hi Tamara- we cannot answer accommodation questions today, but there is plenty of university and private accommodation in Sheffield. Please email our Brazil team on brazil@sheffield.ac.uk if you have any questions.

Khallad: What would happen if I don't get my visa by the time the course starts? Will I lose my offer?

International Office: Every student visa contains a 'latest possible start date'. You need to arrive in the UK before this date. If you are a PhD student, you can change your start date if agreed by the Department. If you are an undergraduate or Masters student, you would need to defer your offer to the following year.

Zahraa: In our country Iraq, we have some problems with the clinic responsible for TB test, I apply for the test a month ago and till now I did not get an appointment!! this issue facing almost all of the students and I am

afraid this may delay my visa application can you please interfere and solve this issue for us please?

International Office: Unfortunately, we do not have any control over TB testing and how quickly students can receive an appointment. If you are a PhD student and need to defer your offer to a later date, do contact us. I hope you are able to get an appointment soon!

Yuki: I would like to know which visa I need. My plan is: summer school (11th Aug to 7th Sep) in Sheffield go back to Japan and stay there 2-3 weeks autumn semester in Sheffield. In this case, do I need to get Student Visitor Visa only once? Or, do I need to get SVV twice?(is it possible?) so, each time for summer school and autumn semester? Or, do I have to get Tier 4 Visa? If I get Tier 4 visa, is it valid both for summer school and autumn semester?

Azadeh - Adviser: Dear Yuki, You must check with ELTC directly regarding CAS. If duration of course is less than 6 months then you should apply for SVV

o: Dear Sirs, i don’t receive my visa yet, and the last date i can join my course is 12th May/2014 what i must do now?

Azadeh - Adviser: Dear O: You must contact the UK embassy directly; we do not have any power to expedite any visa application/s

prithiv kumar: no i am applying outside UK. Azadeh - Adviser: So see the following link, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/dependants http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas halima: hi Heather - International Office: =-) International Office: Hello- please post any questions. Badr AlGhaithi: ok, what if my wife were to come with me as a

dependant, then during my 3 years study decides to take a course or postgrad. degree.. does she need to transfer her dependent visa to a student visa ?

Azadeh - Adviser: No she can study with her dependant visa as long as her course ends before her visa expiry date

Alejandro Albornoz: Hi everyone! Heather - International Office: =-) Víctor: thanks. g Akshay Kulkarni: what property we have to show for visa...? Azadeh - Adviser: You mean address for visa application? If applying from

outside the UK then having an address in the UK is not a requirement

muhammad younus ijaz: hi.i have a an offer for masters in mdph..please advice what documents would i be needing at the time of interview for the visa.

Azadeh - Adviser: Hi Ijaz, Please se ethe following link, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas TamaraFreitas: Thank you so much!!!

Shuya: hi I have another question. When will I have to pay my school fee or deposit? Is it when I receive the CAS?

Heather - International Office: If you've applied for a postgraduate taught course with us, you will need to pay your £1000 deposit when you have your unconditional accepted offer. This is needed before you'll be sent details of how to get CAS

Sucharita: The course is an MEng course and if i wanna work after the course, how long do i have to find work before i get sent back home/my visa expires?

Azadeh - Adviser: You have until your visa expiry date to find a job and apply for relevant visa to start your job. You should not remain in the UK after your visa expiry date

Alejandro Albornoz: hi, I had recently uploaded my IELTS score in order to get my unconditional offer. Without the support of the Chilean government scholarships I can not

Heather - International Office: =-) See response below Shuya: I’m applying for undergraduate Heather - International Office: =-) Badar: Regarding Accommodation, I completed the application

form. Later, I was sent an Accommodation Confirmation Form which states that I need to get my Visa before returning it. Does that mean I could be allocated Accommodation before returning the Confirmation Form?

Azadeh - Adviser: Dear Badar, please contact accommodation team directly

Alejandro Albornoz: assure my acceptance to the offer... Heather - International Office: We wish you luck in getting the sponsorship you need

from your government to meet your offer conditions and come to Sheffield.

stephanie.az: i did the toefl before April 16th, (i did it in January 11th 2014), and do I have to do another English test in order to apply for the visa??

International Office: No, you meet the regulations imposed by the UKBA. Please see http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164

jordan: If i have questions about other areas (e.g. accommodation) who can i email? I'm from Australia

Azadeh - Adviser: Accommodation team directly, accommodationoffice@sheffield.ac.uk Badr AlGhaithi: when can i enter the country after issuing my visa, as i

will be on a postgraduate dental degree? Azadeh - Adviser: Check the following link, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/duration Heather - International Office: We have 15 minutes left to chat today - please do ask

your last questions now. Heather - International Office: If you have questions still after chat, for visa please

email international.students@sheffield.ac.uk. For admissions: shefapply@sheffield.ac.uk. For accommodation: accommodation.office@sheffield.ac.uk. Anything else? international@sheffield.ac.uk

halima: I have unconditional offer start 1/10/ 2014, when I get CAS number

International Office: You will start the CAS process approximately 3 months before the start date of your course.

Alejandro Albornoz: Can I accept the offer (the unconditional) and after decline it if I don't find the funding support? is there some deadlines to this?

International Office: Hi Alejandro- yes, you can accept your offer and decline it afterwards if you do not get your BECAS Chile Funding. If you are a Masters student, you should email pgtfeedeposits@sheffield.ac.uk to request an extension to pay your tuition fee deposit and explain you are waiting for your scholarship approval. Hope that helps!

. stephanie.az: as a student do we get medical insurance? Heather - International Office: The UK has a national health service which you can use

as a student here. You can buy private insurance if you want to but most people use the NHS

Khallad: In regards to what Zahraa said, are all international students required to have a TB test?

Heather - International Office: For information about who needs the TB test: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/tb

Buraq: Ok. The second part of my question is: My current employer is partially sponsoring my Masters. I know I should provide you with an official letter to waive the deposit. That's not my concern. The question is: Would it be better to show the UK embassy here that i'm sponsored or that I'm independent.

Azadeh - Adviser: Dear Buraq, please check the following guidance, I cannot give you a definite answer about this, please check with UK embassy directly

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/303848/T4_Guidance_06-04-14.pdf muhammad younus ijaz: . i have a an offer for masters in mdph..please advice

what documents would i be needing at the time of interview for the visa.

Azadeh - Adviser: Dear Muhammad, we do not have any guidelines or information on what documents you need to take with you for interview. Make sure you take copy of the documents that you submitted for your visa application

Rashmi: The TOFEL result will be accepted for visa Heather - International Office: Details about the TOEFL test and recent changes can

be found on-line here for you to read: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164

Dana: Thank you!!!! Heather - International Office: =-) Zahraa: Can my dependant work in UK? If we get the tier 4 visa Azadeh - Adviser: Yes, but check the following link,

http://www.shef.ac.uk/union/student-advice-centre/immigration/family-and-friends/familys-rights.htm

TamaraFreitas: Thank you for your time. Have a lovely day! Heather - International Office: =-)

muhammad younus ijaz: my dad would be funding me for studies..do i need to carry his salary statement for the interview ,what is the minimum required balance that he should have

Azadeh - Adviser: You must make sure that you have the required funds in your bank account or his bank account for 28 days, check the following link.

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/303848/T4_Guidance_06-04-14.pdf Fahad: I have seen that page and hence knowing about the

2months/4months. what I'm wondering about is if the MSc considered as a full 12 months which will grant the 4-months extra stay or is it technically less than 12 months? I know for sure the start day of the course which is 29th September but in the sheffield uni calendar there's no reference for end dates of MSc courses? http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/about/dates/2014-15

Heather - International Office: Normally students would hand in their dissertation in the following September/October so it's about 12 months, but I'd advise you check with your Department for details.

Lily: Hello! I am trying to look at the past questions but my chat moves each time someone posts a new one.. Im sorry if I repeat this question... I read this in one of the emails sent from Sheffield... "As a result of this decision, TOEFL tests dated after 5 April 2014 will no longer be accepted as evidence of English language ability for students who need to make a Tier 4 visa application." ... if I took my exam on December 2012, can I use it for my visa application?

International Office: English tests need to be less then 2 years old. For more information on TOEFL, see http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/admissions/toefl#toefl164

Akshay Kulkarni: after this chat where i should ask my questions regarding visa if in case..?

Heather - International Office: As stated earlier, the email for visa queries is international.students@sheffield.ac.uk

Elidet Sanchez: thanks so much for your help, have an excellent day Sucharita: Oh. Thanks! Any clue how long that period will be? Azadeh - Adviser: Period of visa? Or process of visa?

For processing time, please check with UK embassy, for duration of visa, check this link please

http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas/duration Alejandro Albornoz: thanks, I'm a PhD prospect student.... so it's the same

process to extend the time for the deposit? International Office: PhD students do not need to pay a deposit! If you

would like to chat with a current Chilean PhD student at the University, do email our International Office Ambassador for Chile, Christian, on latinamerica@sheffield.ac.uk. http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/countries/sou

th-central-america/chile/studentprofileshttp://www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/countries/south-central-america/chile/studentprofiles

Aditya: Thank you for all the answers Yuki: oh, sorry, my total duration (summer school and

autumn school) is less than 6 month, in this case, is it possible to go outside UK and back with SVV?

International Office: Yes, if you apply from outside the UK visa a UK Embassy.

Zahraa: I checked the link of the TB test they say I need the test If I come to UK more than 6 months , my course is 4 weeks and I requested a combined CAS do I need the test please?? sorry for any inconvenience

International Office: If you have a combined CAS, your study period will be longer than 6 months.

Vamesh: Hi. I am an international undergraduate student from India. When shall we start receiving our CAS letters?

International Office: Three months before the start of your course- approximately.

Jordan: I'm studying abroad at Sheffield for just one semester, is it best to use the student visitor visa or the Tier 4? Which one is recommended?

Azadeh - Adviser: If duration is less than 6 months then student visitor visa. If it is more than 6 months they apply for Tier 4

Shuya: ok sure! Thanks a lot for your info! stephanie.az: what are the documents needed to apply for a student

UK visa? and those needed for a regular visa (for family) Azadeh - Adviser: See this link for Tier 4 visa, http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/international/immigration/overseas For general visitor visa, please check UK embassy's webpage International Office: We will be closing in 8 minutes. It is unlikly any new

questions will be answered. Please email us on international.students@sheffield.ac.uk if your questions is not answered.

Badr AlGhaithi: do we need to perform any sort of medical tests for me and my dependents before we can apply to the visa and enter the country as i am Saudi?

Azadeh - Adviser: If you have any immigration queries, please email International.students@sheffield.ac.uk Sucharita: Thank you for helping out! ^_^ Buraq: Thank you Buraq: Until which date I can pay the deposit or show the

sponsorship letter? International Office: Your offer letter will show a deadline to pay your fee

deposit or show a sponsorship letter. If you need an extension, please email pgtfeeedeposits@sheffield.ac.uk

Vamesh: Thank you! Badr AlGhaithi: can we get a copy of this entire chat as it is highly

usefull !! International Office: Yes, it will be posted online!

Ruben Gonzalez: Thank you so much advisors!!... It was a wonderful feedback!

216. Alejandro Albornoz: thanks! These web chat are very useful... is there a way to get all the links posted in the present conversation?

International Office: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/help/international-online-chats Badr AlGhaithi: online where?! International Office: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/help/international-online-chats Lily: December 2012 - now.. is less than two years... Do I still

need to take another test? International Office: WE CANNOT TAKE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS. International Office: THANK YOUR FOR ATTENDING. International Office: THIS CHAT IS CLOSING IN ONE MINUTE International Office: THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING Alejandro Albornoz: thanks again Badar: Thank you. This Chat was very helpful for me. I

appreciate your time and effort... Patience Nasieku: Thank you. Zahraa: thank you