Studying in the UK is exciting, but many students don’t fully understand the costs involved after receiving admission.
At One Education Ghana, we want you to be fully informed and ready. This guide explains each required payment from the moment you receive your offer to when you board your flight.
This breakdown is based on what most of our students in Ghana pay each year. It’s not a quote from a specific university or embassy.
1. Tuition Deposit (Usually Paid Before You Can Apply for a Visa)
Once you receive a Conditional or Unconditional Offer, most universities in the UK will ask you to pay a tuition deposit.
This is not the full tuition—it’s a portion that confirms your place.
- The university uses it to hold your seat in the programme.
- They also use it to generate your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), a requirement for the visa application.
How much is the deposit?
- Most universities ask for between £3,500 and £6,000.
- A few ask for 50% of your tuition before issuing the CAS.
- The specific amount will be stated in your offer letter.
Is the deposit refundable?
In most cases, no. It’s only refundable if:
- You cancel within the first 14 days of payment.
- Your visa is refused.
- You’re unable to meet the academic conditions of your offer.
Once you have your offer and are ready to pay, One Education Ghana can help you with this payment at our office. We’ll provide the laptop and fast internet to get it done quickly.
2. UK Student Visa Application Fee
Once you receive your CAS, the next step is applying for your UK Student Visa.
This is done through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online portal.
Current fee: £524
You must apply within 6 months of receiving your CAS. The visa covers the full duration of your course and usually includes a few months after graduation.
3. Financial Evidence: How Much You Must Show in Your Bank Account
When applying for a student visa, you must prove you can support yourself financially.
Here’s what you’ll need to show:
- Tuition balance (after deposit is paid).
- Living expenses for up to 9 months.
How much do you need to show for living expenses?
- If your university is in London: £1,334 per month up to 9 months = £12,006
- If your university is outside London: £1,023 per month up to 9 months = £9,207
You must keep this money in your bank account (or your sponsor’s account) for 28 consecutive days before applying for your visa.
Important points:
- The bank statement must not be older than 31 days when you submit your visa application.
- The name on the statement must match the applicant, or it must be from a parent/guardian with legal proof of relationship.
4. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
When applying for your visa, you’ll also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This gives you access to healthcare in the UK under the National Health Service (NHS).
How much is the IHS?
- £776 per year of your visa.
- Most students pay £1,552 for a two-year visa.
This payment is made within the visa application portal before your final submission.
5. Tuberculosis (TB) Test
All Ghanaian students must take a TB test from a UKVI-approved medical centre before applying for a visa.
In Ghana, the only approved location is the IOM (International Organisation for Migration) Clinic in Accra.
Cost:
- Students aged 11 and above: GHS 1,300
- Children below 11: GHS 650
You’ll receive a TB clearance certificate to include in your visa application.
6. Flight Ticket (Paid After Visa Approval)
Once your visa is approved, the next step is booking your flight to the UK.
Flight prices vary by:
- Time of year
- How early you book
- Airline and luggage allowance
Estimated cost:
- Ranges from GHS 8,000 to GHS 15,000
- Booking early saves money
Your One Education Ghana counsellor can help you find the best deals when you’re ready to travel.
Recap of All Key Payments
| Payment | Estimated Amount | When to Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Deposit | £3,500 – £6,000 | Before receiving CAS |
| UK Visa Application Fee | £524 | During visa application |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £776 per year (avg. £1,552) | During visa application |
| Living Cost Proof (Bank Account) | £9,207 to £12,006 | Before visa application |
| TB Test | GHS 1,300 | Before visa application |
| Flight Ticket | GHS 8,000 – GHS 15,000 | After visa approval |
Plan Early, Avoid Surprises
Understanding these payments helps you avoid last-minute stress.
At One Education Ghana, we’ll walk with you step by step and help you navigate every stage of the process.
Our services are completely free. No hidden charges. No consultation fees.
Just real support until you land in the UK.
Need help with your application? Contact us today.
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