UK Increases Financial Requirements for Student Visas

The United Kingdom's Home Office has announced an increase in the minimum financial requirements for international students applying for a student visa, with the new thresholds taking effect on November 30, 2026. Prospective students must demonstrate they can cover living costs in the UK, separate from tuition fees.

For students based in London, the monthly maintenance requirement will rise from £1,529 to £1,570, totaling £14,130 over nine months, an increase of £369. For those outside London, the monthly requirement will increase from £1,171 to £1,203, totaling £10,827 over nine months, a difference of £288.

Nigerian students must also account for tuition costs, the visa application fee, and the Immigration Health Surcharge. In the 2024/2025 academic year, approximately 685,565 international students were enrolled in UK institutions, contributing about £41.9 billion to the UK economy in the 2021/2022 academic year.