New UK Student Visa Funds Requirement for 2026
Introduction
Indian students planning to study in the UK will need to show more money for their living expenses when applying for a UK Student Visa from November 30, 2026.
The UK government has increased the minimum amount international students must show as proof of funds. This money is meant to show that students can support themselves while studying in the UK.
However, students should remember that this amount is separate from their tuition fees.
What Are UK Student Visa Maintenance Funds?
Maintenance funds are the amount of money a student needs to show during their Student Visa application.
These funds help demonstrate that the student has enough money to cover their living expenses while studying in the UK.
The amount depends on the location of the student’s university or college. Therefore, students studying in London have a higher financial requirement than those studying outside London.
New Maintenance Funds for Students in London
From November 30, 2026, students studying in London will need to show £1,570 per month.
Previously, the requirement was £1,529 per month.
Therefore, the monthly requirement will increase by £41, which is approximately ₹5,200 based on the figures in the source.
For the maximum nine-month period, students will need to show a total of £14,130, which is approximately ₹18.03 lakh.
New Maintenance Funds for Students Outside London
Students studying outside London will also see an increase.
The monthly requirement will rise from £1,171 to £1,203.
That means students will need to show an additional £32 per month, or around ₹4,100.
For nine months, the total required amount will be £10,827, which is approximately ₹13.82 lakh.
UK Student Visa Maintenance Funds at a Glance
The updated amounts are:
| Study Location | Current Requirement | From November 30, 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| London | £1,529 per month | £1,570 per month |
| Outside London | £1,171 per month | £1,203 per month |
Students can use these figures to understand how much they may need to demonstrate for their visa application.
What Does This Change Mean for Indian Students?
For Indian students, the main impact will be on their overall study-abroad budget.
The maintenance funds are meant for living expenses, so students must plan for this amount in addition to their tuition fees.
Moreover, the required amount depends on where the student will study. Therefore, students heading to London will need to show more funds than those studying in other parts of the UK.
When Will the New Rules Start?
The new maintenance fund requirements will apply from November 30, 2026.
Therefore, students planning to apply for their UK Student Visa around this date should pay close attention to the updated financial requirements.
It is important to check the requirement that applies on the date of the visa application, rather than relying on older figures.
What Should Students Do Before Applying?
Students planning to study in the UK should prepare their finances well in advance.
First, check whether the university or college is located in London or outside London.
Next, calculate the required maintenance funds for the applicable period. Also, remember to plan separately for tuition fees and other study-abroad expenses.
Finally, before submitting the visa application, students should check the latest UK Student Visa requirements to make sure they meet the correct financial threshold.
Final Takeaway
The UK is increasing the financial requirement for international students applying for a Student Visa from November 30, 2026.
Students in London will need to show £1,570 per month, while those studying outside London will need £1,203 per month.
Although the increase is relatively small, students should include it in their overall study-abroad budget. Most importantly, anyone planning to apply around the new rule’s effective date should check the latest requirements before submitting their visa application.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive advice on any of your questions regarding immigration. Get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
