Switching Visas: Does Application Submission mean the Online Application or only after Biometrics?

[hennypenny]

I am currently on a Tier 4 visa switching into a Tier 2. My visa expires 23/03/2020. I have just received my CoS today, following which I submitted and paid for the application online. Now I'm looking into booking the appointment to have my biometrics done, but the available appointments before/on the 23rd are either really far, or too expensive (€200 at Mark Lane).

On the GOV website, it says that once I've applied, I am allowed to stay while waiting for a decision. My question is - at this point, does it mean that I have already applied (given I've paid both visa and IHS fees)? Or does it only count after I attend the biometric appointment? I'm asking because if it means I've already applied, then I can try to book a free slot after the 23rd... (kinda low on funds after paying for the application).

Thank you.

[CR001]

Date of application is the date your submit and pay online. Date of biometrics is irrelevant.

[hennypenny]

Oo thank you very much for your help!

[hennypenny]

I tested my luck and looked for appointments again this morning and I found a free one at Croydon on Monday (the 23rd)! So it's all good