Are you looking to study in the UK for longer than 6 months? Then you need to know if a TB test is mandatory for UK student visa.

The UK government announced that it would decline visa applicants with positive tuberculosis test results.

This was done to make sure the prospective visa applicants do not pose a public health risk. Hence, TB tests are mandatory for a UK student visa.

What is a TB test for UK Visa?

A TB (tuberculosis) test is needed for your UK Visa application if you plan to stay in the country for more than six months.

TB test for a UK visa involves a chest x-ray scan. If the TB test results are negative, you’ll receive a certificate valid for 6 months which needs to be included in your UK visa application. If the TB test results are positive, you’ll be advised to undergo treatment for at least 6 months.

You won’t be allowed to apply for UK Visa until successful TB treatment.

Is TB test mandatory for UK student visa?

Yes, a TB test is mandatory for studying in the UK. Students who plan to study in the UK for more than 6 months need to include negative TB test results. Additionally, the UK government requires you to undergo a TB test if you belong to certain countries.

TB Test Is Mandatory for Applicants from these Countries (List)

The UK Home Office has a published list of countries, where applicants need to undergo a TB test.

Who is exempt from taking a TB test for a UK study visa?

TB test is not mandatory for UK Visa applicants if these apply to you:

1. If you’re a diplomat accredited to the UK.
2. If you have a UK resident and have not been away from the country for more than 2 years consecutively.
3. Children under 11 years of age do not need a TB test. Children older than 11 need to visit a clinic approved by the Home Office. A certificate is issued after examination by the doctor.
4. If you are a pregnant woman, you can delay the TB test until the delivery of your child. Alternatively, you can choose to undergo a sputum sample test which takes up to 8 weeks to generate the results. Another way to get tested for TB as a pregnant woman is to get an x-ray with an extra shield to protect your unborn child.

Can I take a TB test from any clinic?

The UKVI does not accept TB test certificates from clinics not approved by the Home Office. Hence, you cannot take a TB test for a visa from any clinic.

The Home Office has an approved list of clinics for conducting TB tests for visa applications. Make sure to get tested only from the approved clinics to avoid chances of visa rejections.

When should you get a TB test for a UK study visa?

You should get a TB test at least 10 weeks prior to your UK study visa application. TB test certificates are valid for 6 months. If you receive a positive test result for TB, you may be required to undergo treatment before you apply again.

Average cost of taking TB test from home-office approved clinics?

It usually costs ₹2000 for taking a TB test from Home-Office approved clinics. However, the cost of the test depends on the location of such clinics. For example, the cost of a TB test from an approved clinic in Coimbatore is ₹1800, whereas the same test in New Delhi costs ₹2700.

Contact us to know if a TB test is mandatory for your UK student visa process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a UK study visa without a TB test?

TB test is mandatory for UK visa applicants if they chose to study in the country for more than six months.

Is a TB Test required for CAS?

TB test is not required for CAS. However, it is mandatory for a UK visa application. CAS- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies.

Who is exempt from TB tests for UK Visa?

Children under 11 years of age are exempt from TB tests for UK visas.

Can I do a TB test before applying for a UK visa?

Yes, you can do a TB test before applying for UK visa.