What do non-visa nationals need to enter the UK?
International students need a visa or entry clearance to study in the UK.
International students require a visa (also known as 'entry clearance') to study in the UK. Non-visa nationals can choose whether to apply for entry clearance for short-term study in advance of travelling, or they may enter the UK without a visa. However, you must carry evidence that you will be studying a course for less than six months in your hand luggage in case you are questioned by a Border Control Officer. If you choose not to apply for a visa before your trip you may either see a Border Control Officer at immigration who will provide a visa stamp in your passport or you can enter the UK through an e-Gate (this scans your passport automatically). This will grant you the right to study in the UK for a period of less than six months.
Even if you obtained entry clearance as a short-term student before travelling to the UK, you should still carry all the documents you submitted with your entry clearance application when you travel to the UK as the Border Force Officer may ask to see these documents when you arrive in the UK.