If you’re planning to study in the UK on a Student visa, you need to be aware of an important change coming into effect on 11 November 2025. Under the Student immigration rules, the amount of money you must show as proof of financial maintenance will increase. Understanding this update is essential for international applicants, because failing to provide sufficient funds can lead to visa refusal.
What’s Changing and When
From 11 November 2025, new maintenance requirements apply to all new Student route visa applications made on or after that date. This means if you apply before 11 November, the older (lower) maintenance rates apply; if you apply on or after 11 November, you must meet the increased amounts.
The Increased Maintenance Amounts
Under the new rules:
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For courses in London, you must show £1,529 per month for living costs, up to a maximum of 9 months.
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For courses outside London, you must show £1,171 per month, up to a maximum of 9 months.
These amounts reflect the UK government’s recognition of higher living costs and align with updated student support frameworks.
Additionally, the maximum accommodation offset (the amount you may deduct for pre-paid university halls) is also increased in line with the London rate for eligible cases.
How It Affects Applicants
If your course begins after 11 November 2025 (or your visa application is made on or after that date), you must ensure your bank statement or financial evidence meets the new figures. For example, a nine-month period outside London would require a minimum of £1,171 × 9 = £10,539 held for the required 28 consecutive days.
If the course is in London, a similar calculation using £1,529 monthly applies.
If you apply under the older rates (before 11 November), you may use the previous lower amounts. This gives a window of opportunity for early applicants.
Key Requirements You Must Know
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The financial funds must typically be held in a bank account (or approved holding) for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before your visa application date.
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The funds must cover both your tuition fees (or remaining course fees) plus living costs for up to nine months.
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If you have paid pre-paid accommodation in university-managed halls, that payment may offset part of the living cost figure (subject to conditions).
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Starting 11 November 2025, you cannot rely on the older, lower figures—your application will need to meet the new higher amounts if submitted on or after that date.
Why This Change Matters
International students often budget carefully for tuition and living costs in the UK. With the maintenance requirement increasing, applicants need to plan earlier, secure financial evidence, and account for the higher sum. Universities and agents also need to update guidance and ensure that Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) issues factor in the new amounts.
Practical Tips to Prepare
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Review the date of your visa application: if it’s on or after 11 November 2025, plan for the higher rate.
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Arrange proof of funds early: ensure your bank statement shows the full sum for 28 days and the closing balance date is recent.
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If you’ve already paid for accommodation in university halls, check if the offset applies and how much you can deduct.
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Communicate with your university or admissions advisor to confirm which maintenance rate applies to your situation.
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If your visa application is scheduled just before 11 November, consider the timing carefully—applying earlier could allow you to use the lower maintenance amount, but you still must meet all other eligibility criteria.
Conclusion
The increase in maintenance fund requirements from 11 November 2025 is a key update for international students applying to the UK under the Student route. Being aware, planning ahead and securing the correct amount of funds will give you a much better chance of a smooth visa application.
If you’d like help assessing your financial evidence, checking your application timing, or preparing your visa submission professionally, click here to book your free consultation and ensure you’re ready under the new rules.
