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A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is a 14-digit electronic reference number issued by a UK university to international students after they accept an offer and meet all admission requirements. It confirms that the university will sponsor the student’s studies in the UK and is mandatory for applying for a UK Student Visa through UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Although often called a CAS letter, it is actually an electronic record sent by the university via email with the CAS number and course details. A CAS is usually valid for 6 months and can be used only once for the visa application.
After receiving their CAS, students typically begin preparing for visa applications, travel plans, and accommodation arrangements. Since university housing is limited, many international students secure accommodation early through platforms like Acolyte Living, which helps students find verified housing near their university before arriving in the UK.
A CAS Letter (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is an electronic document issued by a UK university to international students who have accepted an offer to study at that institution.
• Issued by UK universities licensed by the UK government
• Contains a unique 14-digit CAS reference number
• Required for applying for a UK Student Visa
• Confirms the student’s admission to a specific course
• Includes academic and financial details related to the program
The CAS is usually sent via email once the university verifies the student's documents and confirms the tuition fee deposit.
Students who already have their CAS can also unlock special accommodation offers.
Submit your CAS Letter through Acolyte Living and get access to exclusive student accommodation deals near major UK universities.
This allows students to:
• Access verified student housing
• Explore accommodation near their university
• Get early booking advantages
• Secure housing before arriving in the UK
Planning accommodation early can help students avoid last-minute stress before the semester begins.
| Details | Description |
| CAS Letter Full Form | Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies |
| CAS Number | 14-digit reference number issued by a UK university |
| Student Information | Name, passport number, nationality |
| University Details | Name of sponsoring university |
| Course Information | Course title, level, duration |
| Course Dates | Official start and end date |
| Tuition Fees | Total tuition fees and deposit paid |
| English Language | Proof of English proficiency |
| Financial Details | Payments made toward tuition |
| Sponsor Licence | University sponsor licence number |
Students should carefully review these details before submitting their visa application.
Required for UK Student Visa
A CAS number is mandatory for applying for a UK Student Visa. Without it, the visa application cannot proceed.
Confirms University Admission
The CAS confirms that the student has been officially accepted by a recognized UK university.
Immigration Verification
UK immigration authorities use the CAS to verify that students meet eligibility requirements.
Preparation for Relocation
Receiving a CAS means students can begin preparing for visa processing, travel arrangements, and accommodation booking.
| Stage | Typical Time |
| Accept university offer | Immediate |
| Submit required documents | 3-5 days |
| Tuition fee deposit payment | Same week |
| CAS processing by university | 5-15 working days |
| CAS issued | Usually within 2 weeks |
Student Tip
Once your CAS is issued, it is recommended to begin planning accommodation and travel arrangements early.
To receive a CAS, students must meet several requirements.
Academic Documents
Students must submit academic qualifications such as:
• High school certificates
• Bachelor’s degree certificates
• Academic transcripts
English Language Proof
Universities usually require proof of English proficiency through exams like:
• IELTS
• TOEFL
• PTE
Tuition Fee Deposit
Most universities require students to pay a tuition deposit between £3,000 and £8,000 before issuing a CAS.
Required Documents
Common documents include:
• Valid passport
• Academic certificates
• English language test results
• University offer letter
Many UK universities are licensed sponsors under the UK immigration system and can issue CAS letters to international students.
Some popular universities include:
Step 1: Receive an Offer Letter
Students receive a conditional or unconditional offer from a UK university.
Step 2: Accept the Offer
Students confirm acceptance of the university offer.
Step 3: Submit Documents
Submit academic documents, passport copy, and English test results.
Step 4: Pay Tuition Fee Deposit
Pay the required tuition deposit.
Step 5: CAS Issuance
After verification, the university issues the CAS number.
Receiving a CAS is an important milestone. Students should prepare for the next steps.
CAS Preparation Checklist
Since thousands of international students arrive during each intake, student housing fills quickly near major universities.
Students who share their CAS early can secure better accommodation options before the semester begins.
| City | Average Monthly Rent (£) |
| London | 900 - 1500 |
| Manchester | 600 - 900 |
| Birmingham | 550 - 850 |
| Leeds | 500 - 800 |
Because demand increases before each intake, booking accommodation early can help students secure better locations and prices.
Once students receive their CAS, finding accommodation becomes one of the most important steps before arriving in the UK.
University halls often have limited availability, which is why many international students choose private student accommodation near their campus.
Students who submit their CAS Letter through Acolyte Living can receive:
• Exclusive accommodation offers
• Early booking discounts
• Verified housing options near universities
• Support during relocation
Submit your CAS Letter and unlock special accommodation deals for international students.
Booking early helps students settle comfortably and start their academic journey without stress.
Students should review their CAS details carefully before applying for a visa.
Incorrect Passport Details
Ensure your name and passport number match your passport.
Incorrect Course Information
Verify the course title, start date, and duration.
Missing Academic Information
Check that all academic qualifications are listed correctly.
Incorrect Fee Details
Ensure tuition fee payments are recorded correctly.
If errors are found, contact the university immediately for corrections.
How long is a CAS letter valid?
A CAS letter is generally valid for 6 months from the date of issue.
Can I apply for a visa without a CAS?
No. A CAS number is required for applying for a UK Student Visa.
How long does it take to receive a CAS?
Most universities issue a CAS within 1–3 weeks after document verification and deposit payment.
When should I book accommodation after receiving a CAS?
Students should start booking accommodation as soon as they receive their CAS, since housing fills quickly.
How can international students find accommodation in the UK?
Students can explore verified student housing options through trusted platforms like Acolyte Living, which helps students secure accommodation before arriving in the UK.
Conclusion
The CAS Letter (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) is one of the most important documents for international students planning to study in the UK. It confirms admission to a licensed university and is required for the UK Student Visa application.
After receiving the CAS, students should begin preparing their visa documents, financial proof, travel plans, and accommodation arrangements.
Students who already have their CAS Letter can also submit it to Acolyte Living to receive special accommodation offers and priority booking options near major UK universities.
Planning ahead ensures a smooth transition and allows students to focus on starting their academic journey successfully.