In order to qualify as an international student and obtain a student visa you have to meet certain requirements, as outlined in the Immigration Act. These are:
You must be able to show that you have been accepted on a course of study at:
A publicly funded institution of further or higher education; OR
A private education establishment; OR
An independent fee paying school; OR
A recognised full-time degree course; OR
A weekday, full-time course involving at least 15 hours of organised daytime study per week; OR
A full-time course of study at an independent fee paying school.
You must also be able to show that you:
Will be able to pay for the course, support and have accommodation for yourself and any family members you may wish to bring with you, without working in the UK.