If you plan to study in the UK, you will usually need a Student visa, and one of the most common reasons for refusal is not meeting the financial requirement correctly. This guide explains how much money you need, how to prove it and how scholarships affect the rules, based on official GOV.UK guidance.
Information checked: 24 October 2026.
Important: UK immigration rules change regularly. Always check the latest GOV.UK guidance before you apply.
The Two Parts of the Financial Requirement
According to GOV.UK, you must show you have enough money for:
- Your course fees for one academic year (up to 9 months), as shown on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), minus any amount already paid.
- Living costs (“financial requirement”) for up to 9 months.
Living Cost Amounts
| Where you will study | Amount per month | Maximum (9 months) |
|---|---|---|
| London (City of London and the 32 London boroughs) | £1,529 | £13,761 |
| Outside London | £1,171 | £10,539 |
These amounts are as published on GOV.UK at the time of checking. You need extra money for each family member who comes with you, where dependants are permitted.
The 28-Day Rule
You must have held the required money for at least 28 consecutive days, and the end date of that period must be within 31 days of the date you apply. For example, if you apply on 1 January, the funds must have been held for the 28 days ending no earlier than 1 December.
Common mistakes include:
- the balance dropping below the required amount for even one day;
- statements that are older than 31 days at the time of application;
- funds held in an account type or name that is not accepted.
When You Do Not Need to Prove Living Costs
GOV.UK says you do not need to prove the financial requirement if you have been living in the UK with a visa for at least 12 months on the date of your application. Applicants from countries on the “differential evidence requirement” list may not need to provide evidence with their application, but may still be asked for it later, so keep it ready.
Scholarships and Official Sponsors
If you have a scholarship or official financial sponsorship, you will need evidence from the sponsor. A fully funded scholarship that covers fees and living costs may mean you need to show less, or no, personal money. Check the details carefully:
- the letter should confirm the amount and what it covers;
- if the scholarship only covers part of your costs, you must show the rest;
- your CAS should reflect any fees already paid or covered.
The Immigration Rules (Appendix Finance) explain acceptable evidence in detail. For example, funds must be immediately accessible, and overdrafts or investments you cannot withdraw do not count.
Other Costs to Budget For
| Cost | Notes |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee | GOV.UK lists £558 for applications from outside the UK at the time of checking |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | Usually payable as part of the application; check the current rate on GOV.UK |
| English test | If required for your course |
| TB test | Required for applicants from certain countries |
| Travel and initial accommodation deposits | Varies |
Many fully funded scholarships, such as Chevening and Gates Cambridge, cover some of these costs. Check your scholarship terms.
Working While Studying
Student visa holders studying full time at degree level can normally work up to 20 hours a week in term time, subject to conditions set out in the Immigration Rules and their university’s term dates. Do not rely on future work income to meet the financial requirement; it must be shown in advance.
Dependants
Since 1 January 2024, most students cannot bring dependants on a Student visa. According to GOV.UK, exceptions include students on eligible postgraduate research courses (such as PhDs) and government-sponsored students on longer courses. Check GOV.UK for the current rules.
Step-by-Step Checklist
- Receive your CAS and check fees shown.
- Calculate fees still owed for the first year plus living costs.
- Ensure the funds are in an acceptable account for 28 consecutive days.
- Obtain a statement dated within 31 days of applying.
- Collect scholarship or sponsor letters if applicable.
- Apply online and pay the visa fee and health surcharge.
Practical Tips for Bank Statements
Many refusals happen because of problems with documents rather than a lack of money. To avoid this:
- Make sure the statement shows your name (or your parent’s name, if you are using their funds and the rules allow it), the account number, the bank’s name and logo, and the date.
- Check that the money has been held for the full required period and that the closing balance is dated within the allowed time before your application.
- If you use an electronic statement, follow the official rules on what is acceptable, which may include a bank stamp or a covering letter.
- If your funds are in another currency, the Home Office typically converts them using a published exchange rate on the date of application, so leave a buffer in case rates move.
- If you rely on a parent’s account, prepare the evidence of your relationship and their consent as the rules require.
Planning Your Overall Budget
The visa amount is the minimum you must show, not a full budget. Before you travel, also plan for:
- a housing deposit and the first month’s rent, which may be due before you receive any scholarship payments;
- furniture, bedding and kitchen items;
- a winter coat and other clothing suited to the UK climate;
- mobile phone and internet costs;
- travel within the UK and visits home.
Building a realistic budget helps you avoid financial stress during your first term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money do I need for a UK Student visa?
Course fees for one year (up to 9 months) plus £1,529 per month in London or £1,171 per month outside London, for up to 9 months, as published on GOV.UK.
Can I use a parent’s bank account?
Yes, under conditions. You normally need proof of your relationship and your parent’s written consent. Check Appendix Finance.
Does my scholarship count?
Yes, official financial sponsorship counts if you provide the correct evidence.
What happens if my balance dips?
If it falls below the required amount during the 28 days, your application may be refused.
Can I bring my family?
Most taught master’s students cannot. Check current GOV.UK rules.
How long does a decision take?
GOV.UK says you will usually get a decision within 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK.
Summary and Next Step
For a UK Student visa you must usually show one year’s fees plus up to 9 months of living costs, held for 28 days. Scholarships can reduce or remove the amount you need to show. Plan early and keep evidence ready. Next, explore fully funded UK scholarships such as Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships.