Starting November 11, 2025, the UK government’s updated financial requirements for international students officially come into effect. Anyone applying for a UK Student Visa on or after this date must now show higher proof of funds to cover living expenses during their studies. This change reflects the country’s effort to align student maintenance levels with current living costs across the UK.
What Has Changed
Until now, students applying for a UK visa had to show they could afford:
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£1,334 per month if studying in London
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£1,023 per month if studying outside London
From November 11, 2025, these numbers rise to:
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£1,529 per month for students studying in London
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£1,171 per month for students studying outside London
These figures are used to calculate the total amount of money a student needs to demonstrate, for example, covering up to 9 months of living costs for most degree-level programmes.
Who the Change Affects
This update applies to all new Student Visa applications submitted on or after November 11, 2025.
It affects:
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Students applying for their initial UK visa from outside the UK.
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Students extending or switching visas within the UK after that date.
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Dependants applying alongside a main student visa holder.
If you submitted your visa application before November 11, the previous lower rates still apply.
Why the Financial Requirement Increased
The UK Home Office reviews financial thresholds periodically to ensure students have realistic funds to live and study safely in the UK. With rising rent and living expenses across the country, the adjustment helps prevent financial hardship and ensures students can focus on their studies rather than part-time work.
How to Calculate Your Required Funds
To understand how much you need, multiply the new monthly rate by the number of months required for your course location:
Example 1: Studying in London
£1,529 × 9 months = £13,761 (plus tuition fees for the first year)
Example 2: Studying Outside London
£1,171 × 9 months = £10,539 (plus tuition fees for the first year)
If you’re bringing dependants, you’ll need to show additional funds per dependant:
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£845 per month (London)
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£680 per month (outside London)
Tips for Meeting the New Requirement
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Maintain the full balance in your account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
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Use a bank account in your name or your official sponsor’s name.
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Ensure your bank statement clearly shows your name, account number, and the closing balance date.
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If you receive a scholarship or sponsorship, include the official funding letter stating the amount covered.
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Avoid relying on funds that are held in joint or business accounts unless officially acceptable under UKVI rules.
What This Means for International Students
While the new rates mean students must show slightly more savings, they also reflect more realistic living standards across the UK. The change doesn’t affect tuition fees or scholarship eligibility, but applicants should review their financial planning early to avoid last-minute visa issues.
At the same time, the Graduate Route (post-study work visa) and existing scholarship schemes remain unchanged — meaning international students can still benefit from excellent long-term opportunities after graduation.
How Universitio Can Help
Navigating updated visa rules can be tricky, especially when financial requirements change mid-application. Our expert team at Universitio works directly with UK institutions and can guide you through every step — from calculating the right maintenance amount to preparing flawless financial documents that meet Home Office standards.
Conclusion
The UK’s new student financial requirements are now officially active, raising the minimum proof of funds for both London and other regions. If you’re planning to apply soon, double-check your savings and documentation before submitting.
If you’re unsure whether your documents meet the new standard, click here to book your free consultation with Universitio — we’ll review your case and make sure your visa application is fully ready under the latest rules.
