The United Kingdom is set to increase the amount of money international students must demonstrate they can access to cover living expenses when applying for a Student visa, with the revised requirements taking effect on November 30, 2026.
Under the changes, students studying in London will need to show £1,570 per month, up from £1,529, while those studying outside London will need £1,203 per month, compared with the current £1,171. The amounts can be required for up to nine months, depending on the course and the applicant’s circumstances.
For students outside London, the maximum living-cost funds required for a nine-month period will rise from £10,539 to £10,827. In London, the maximum will increase from £13,761 to £14,130. These amounts are separate from any outstanding tuition fees that applicants must demonstrate they can pay.
The financial requirement is part of the UK’s Student visa application process. Applicants generally need to show they have enough money to cover unpaid course fees for one academic year, as well as the required living costs. The money must normally have been held for at least 28 consecutive days, with the end of that period falling within 31 days of the visa application.
The Home Office said the increase aligns the student maintenance requirement with the level of maintenance loans available to domestic students for the 2026–2027 academic year. The annual adjustment forms part of measures announced earlier to address abuse of the student visa route.
The revised rates will apply to applications submitted on or after November 30. Students who apply before that date will remain subject to the existing financial thresholds, according to guidance published by UK universities and student immigration advisers.
There are exemptions to the requirement to provide financial evidence. For example, applicants who have been living in the UK with valid immigration permission for at least 12 months before applying may not need to prove they hold the funds. Certain applicants covered by the differential evidence arrangements may also be exempt from submitting financial documents, although UK Visas and Immigration can request evidence where necessary.
The changes mean prospective international students will need to plan their finances carefully and ensure their bank statements or other accepted evidence meet the applicable rules before submitting an application. Applicants should check the latest official guidance, as requirements can vary according to their course, location and individual circumstances.
The UK remains a major destination for international education, but the higher financial thresholds add to the upfront funding prospective students may need to demonstrate before travelling to study.
[…] UK to Raise Student Visa Financial Requirements From Novembe… […]