Prospective Student ---> Student Visa

OK, I have enjoyed nearly three months here in London without having visa related stresses, but it's that time again!   

I have been trying to find detailed information on how to switch visas here (yes, it's supposedly one of very few that you can do without going home), but apparently I'm incompetent when it comes to the Home Office website.

The international orientation at my uni begins on 18 September, and I would like to have my student visa as far in advance as possible to get it out of the way and because I'm already here.  I think about a month in advance is as good as it's going to get, right?  And I can't apply far in advance, say now?

Thanks in advance for help and confirmations!

Wait until you enrol on the course, then apply on the FLR(S) form to extend your stay as a student.

Details at http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/staying_immigration.php

Thanks!  That site was refreshingly clear.  Do you know if it really ever takes 14 weeks?  I'm a bit worried now about making it home for Christmas if my passport is going to be tied up for over three months as I don't think enrollment starts until September...

Would there be any advantage to starting over and applying for a student visa (via courier of course) when I go home for a quick visit next month as opposed to going through the Home Office here?

Do you know if it really ever takes 14 weeks?

Normally 4 or 5, but depends on the time of year.  If you apply as soon as you enrol you should be fine, because the big rush is people whosde leave runs out on 31 October.

[/quote]Would there be any advantage to starting over and applying for a student visa (via courier of course) when I go home for a quick visit next month as opposed to going through the Home Office here?[/quote]
Yes, it is much cheaper.  £99 not £295.

Wait until you enrol on the course, then apply on the FLR(S) form to extend your stay as a student.

Details at http://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/info_sheets/staying_immigration.php

Is it appropriate to apply for this at the beginning of your course?  What if you drop out?

Is it appropriate to apply for this at the beginning of your course?  What if you drop out?

If you already have a student visa, there is no need to apply for this until the end of the course if you find you need to extend your time as a student.

However, this doesn't apply to the OP - in her case, she is in the UK on a Prospective Student Visa (which allows you to enter the UK in order to look for a suitable course and apply to become a student) and needs to acquire an official Student Visa in order to start her university course in September.

The question is: does she need to return to the US to apply for the student visa or can she switch status within the UK? - the link gives information on how to do the latter.

I was excited about the prospective student visa because I liked the flexibility of being able to switch to a student visa here and didn't think I would make it home, but now that I am planning a two week visit home next month I think I'll apply from there and save £200!

As far as timing is concerned, as long as I have my ducks in a row there is no reason I shouldn't get my visa within the two weeks that I am home, right?  As long as I use a courier?

I didn't use a courier and just sent it in to NY via Fedex and got it approved and sent back to me within a week.

I'd say do the online application now and get your biometrics appointment for right when you get home. Have all your documentation ready to send as soon as you get the biometrics sheet. It'll be fine!

Is it appropriate to apply for this at the beginning of your course?  What if you drop out?

You can apply any time after you are enrolled on an eligible course.  If you leave the course, you need to join another eligible course or leave the UK.