Having chosen Northumbria University, Newcastle as the university to complete my LLB, a UK Student Visa is now a must.

Where and how to apply for a UK Visa can be found here

The busiest time to fix a student visa is from the month of july till august as the centre will usually expect an influx of students applying their visas before commencement of respective courses in september. Therefore, submitting an online application and then booking an appointment online is advisable to avoid long queues.

The British High Commission that processes the visa is rather strict and therefore one must make sure that they have all original supporting documents like financial evidence, unconditional acceptance from the university, past education certificates and etc. as evidence. All documents must be photostated and certified. If possible, all relevant documents like an air ticket itinerary to the UK or accommodation offers should be presented as to leave out any areas of doubt.

a checklist (click me) of what is needed can be found on their official website as guidance.

A recent photograph of yourself is needed for the application.
The photo requirements are as follows:
i) taken against a white background
ii) printed on normal photographic paper
iii) must be 45 mm x 35 mm in size
iv) every distinguishing face feature must be shown without sunglasses, hat or head covering depending on applicant's religious belief.
v) if possible, do not smile! (and so i didnt)... so basically, the picture must look lk this...

A recently introduced system called the Biometrics Data is now required from all visa applicants. Biometrics is introduced to address the growing problem of identity theft. Applicants are called into a room where all 10 fingers are digitally scanned and a digital photograph will be taken.

The digital fingerprint scanner will not accept wounded fingers therefore it is important not to injure your fingers before your appointment. Even a papercut might reject you from applying.

Do not fret, it is just your 10 fingers and not your entire arm or hand. So having your right arm plastered with kiddy plasters because of sand fly bites that became septic will not harm your chances of getting your visa processed.

If you live in Malaysia, the UK Visa Application Centre is located in the MCA building, Ampang. It's within walking distance from KLCC therefore the convenience should you need to do last minute banking or you discover you lack certain documents or your photograph do not meet the standard requirements. All can be done in KLCC itself as i gt my photograph taken there as well as my sponsor's bank statement certified.