The UK government has announced an increase in the financial requirements for international students, effective from January 2, 2025.
This is the first update since 2020, aimed at adjusting to higher living costs in the UK.
To get a student visa, international students must now show proof of funds to cover their living expenses for up to nine months. The required amount varies depending on whether the student is studying in London or outside of London:
In London: Students need to show £1,483 per month, up from £1,334. This is an 11.2% increase.
Outside London: Students must show £1,136 per month, up from £1,023, which is an 11.1% increase.
For students studying in London for nine months, they must prove they have £13,348 in savings, reflecting the updated monthly requirement.
There is some flexibility in these requirements:
Students who have already paid for accommodation in the UK can reduce the required amount.
Long-term residents, who have been in the UK on another visa for at least 12 months, do not need to show proof of maintenance funds.
Besides showing enough funds, students must also meet other criteria to get a UK student visa, including:
- An acceptance letter from a licensed UK institution.
- Proof of English language skills, usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Health insurance through the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- A valid passport or travel document.
