International students applying for UK student visas will face higher financial requirements from November 30, 2026, with those planning to study in London required to show access to up to £14,130 for living expenses.
The revised requirements announced by the UK Home Office will also increase the minimum funds students studying outside London must demonstrate.
Under the new figures, students in London will need to show £1,570 per month, up from £1,529. For courses lasting nine months or longer, the maximum maintenance requirement will rise from £13,761 to £14,130.
Students studying outside London will need to demonstrate £1,203 monthly, compared with the current £1,171. Their maximum nine-month requirement will increase from £10,539 to £10,827.
The maintenance funds cover living expenses and are separate from tuition fees, visa application charges and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which provides access to the UK’s National Health Service under applicable rules.
The changes mean prospective students, including Nigerians, will need to budget for the revised living-cost thresholds alongside tuition and other immigration-related expenses. Applicants must meet the requirement applicable to their university’s location and provide acceptable evidence that the funds are available.
The increases come amid rising living costs, accommodation expenses and financial pressures on international students, including challenges in finding employment.
Figures cited in reports show that 685,565 international students were enrolled at UK higher education providers during the 2024/2025 academic year, representing about 24 per cent of the student population.
Of the total, approximately 63,600 students were from European Union countries, while around 622,000 came from outside the EU.
The revised amounts set the minimum living funds applicants must demonstrate for their visa applications, with tuition fees and other immigration-related charges remaining additional costs.
