UK Raises Student Visa Living Cost from November 2025

Starting from 11 November 2025, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will increase the minimum living cost requirement for international students applying for a student visa.

Students studying in London will now need to show proof of £1,529 per month, while those studying outside London must show £1,171 per month to cover their living expenses.

This change is designed to reflect the real cost of living in the UK, which has been steadily rising due to higher rent, food, and transportation prices. The update aims to make sure students have enough funds to support themselves during their studies without facing financial challenges after arrival.

What This Means for Students

The new rule means students applying for a UK student visa will need to show they have access to more funds than before.

Previously, the monthly requirement was £1,483 for students in London and £1,136 for those studying elsewhere in the country. While the increase might seem small, it adds up over the nine months typically required to demonstrate financial readiness.

Now, a student studying in London will need to show a total of £13,761, while those outside London will need £10,539.

Anyone applying on or after 11 November 2025 will need to meet these new requirements. Applications submitted before this date will still be assessed under the current financial rules.

Why the UK Government Made This Change

According to UKVI, the decision was made to ensure that students have enough financial support to live comfortably during their time in the UK. The previous amounts no longer reflected the real costs of living, particularly in London, where expenses have risen sharply over the past few years.

The government believes this change will help students avoid financial difficulties and reduce the number of cases where students struggle to pay rent or manage daily expenses once they arrive.

However, for many students and families, especially those from countries with weaker currencies, this change will feel significant. Meeting the new financial requirement might be harder due to exchange rate fluctuations and limited access to foreign currency. 

This may make it more challenging for some students to maintain the required amount in their account for 28 consecutive days before applying for their visa.

How the Education Sector is Responding

The news has already started conversations among education consultants, universities, and international recruitment agencies. Many believe the new rule could influence where students choose to study.

While the UK remains a top destination for international students, higher living cost requirements may push some applicants to explore other study options in countries like Canada or Australia, where the visa financial rules are less demanding.

In response, some universities are expected to offer more scholarships or flexible payment plans to help students manage the financial pressure. Education consultants are also encouraging applicants to plan ahead, keep their finances stable, and start gathering documents early to avoid delays or rejections.

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How Students Can Prepare

For those planning to apply after November, preparation is key. Students should start saving early and make sure the required amount stays in their account for at least 28 continuous days before submitting their visa application.

Applicants should also check whether their course location falls within London or outside of it, as this will affect the amount of money they need to show. If you are sponsored by your parents, a guardian, or another organization, ensure that your financial documents meet the latest UKVI guidelines.

Students who will be bringing dependants should also be aware that the maintenance requirement for family members may increase alongside this change.

Looking Ahead

This update is part of the UK’s broader adjustments to its immigration and student visa system. It reflects a growing emphasis on financial responsibility and self-sufficiency among international students.

Although the change may feel like an additional challenge, it also encourages better preparation and financial planning. For education consultancies and universities, it is an opportunity to provide more support, guidance, and transparent information to help students meet these requirements confidently.

Final Thoughts

The new UKVI maintenance rule, effective from 11 November 2025, is a reminder that studying abroad requires careful financial preparation. While the UK continues to be one of the most popular destinations for international education, students will now need to plan a little earlier and budget a little smarter.

For those who prepare well and stay informed, this change will not stand in the way of achieving their dream of studying in the United Kingdom.