Question about student visitor visas

[sp222]

Hey,

I'm a South Korean citizen (non-visa national) and am currently studying in the UK without a visa, as a student visitor. I am supposed to be studying here for one semester, but would like to extend my stay.

It is my understanding that I will be required to leave the UK after 6 months and this period cannot be extended in any way. Would it, however, be possible for me not to have to go back to Korea? I have a friend in the EU who I could stay with while I do any necessary paperwork. Everything on the university's side can be arranged, my only issue now is the visa. I won't be able to afford going to Korea and back.

Is it possible to get another 6-month study period, or apply for a student visitor (6-month) visa? I could apply for a Tier 4 as well, if necessary, but I'm not sure if any of these things can be done outside of Korea.

Thank you for any help.

[vinny]

ECB05 - Where to apply - the policy

[sp222]

ECB05 - Where to apply - the policy

Thank you very much, I haven't read that before. What I understand from that is that one cannot apply for a Tier 4 visa outside their country of residence, but they can apply for a student visitor visa.

However, I cannot find any information whether I can apply for a student visitor visa after (or during) the 6-month period that I'm allowed to stay in the UK without a visa. Does anyone happen to know anything about that?

Thanks.

[sp222]

Anyone else have some additional information, please?