Planning to study in the UK? Then you may need to keep more money in your bank account before applying for a student visa.
The UK government is increasing the financial requirement for student visas from November 30, 2026.
This means students applying for a visa on or after this date will need to show higher savings to prove they can manage their living costs in the UK.
Students planning to join the January 2027 intake should pay close attention to this change.
How Much Money Will Students Need?
The amount depends on whether you will study in London or outside London.
Students Studying in London
Currently, students need to show £1,529 per month for living expenses.
For a maximum period of nine months, this comes to £13,761.
From November 30, 2026, the requirement will increase to £1,570 per month.
For nine months, students will need to show £14,130 in savings.
That means the total requirement will rise by £369, or around ₹47,232, for nine months.
Students Studying Outside London
Students outside London currently need to show £1,171 per month.
For nine months, this means having £10,539 available.
Under the new rules, the monthly requirement will increase to £1,203.
For nine months, students will need to show £10,827.
This is an increase of £288, or around ₹36,864, over nine months.
Why Is the UK Increasing the Fund Requirement?
The financial requirement is designed to make sure international students have enough money to cover their basic living expenses while studying in Britain.
The increase is relatively small on a monthly basis, but students applying for a visa will need to make sure their bank balance meets the new threshold.
Importantly, this amount is only for living expenses.
It does not include tuition fees, visa fees or the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
How Does the Student Visa Funds Rule Work?
UK student visa applicants must prove that they have enough money to support themselves during their studies.
The amount is calculated based on the required monthly figure and the length of the course.
However, the government will consider a maximum of nine months.
For example, if your course requires nine months of living-cost funds, you must show the required amount for all nine months.
Students may also need to show money for any unpaid tuition fees listed on their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
Which Rules Will Apply to Your Visa Application?
The date you submit your application will be important.
Applications submitted before November 30, 2026 will be assessed under the previous financial requirements.
Applications submitted on or after November 30, 2026 will have to meet the new, higher requirements.
So, students preparing for the January 2027 intake should check their finances carefully before submitting their applications.
A small difference in the required bank balance could become important if your application falls under the new rules.
UK Study Plans May Now Need a Bigger Budget
For students planning to study in Britain, tuition fees are already a major expense.
Now, the higher financial requirement means they will also need to keep a little more money available for living costs.
The increase may not seem huge, but students should plan ahead rather than wait until the visa application is ready.
If you are applying on or after November 30, 2026, make sure your financial documents meet the new limits.
