UK Student Visa Update: Higher Living Costs Requirements Starting November 2025

If you are planning to study in the UK, you need to know about the latest changes to student visa rules. The UK government has announced an increase in the amount of money you must show to cover your living costs. This is called the maintenance requirement. It helps make sure you can support yourself while studying without needing public funds. These changes start for visa applications made on or after November 11, 2025. At Blue Horse Education, we help students from around the world with their UK study plans. In this blog, we will explain the updates in simple terms, why they matter, and how to prepare.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

The UK Home Office reviews the student visa rules every year to keep them in line with the cost of living. For the 2025/2026 school year, they are raising the amounts to match what UK home students get in maintenance loans. This ensures international students have enough money for things like rent, food, and travel. The goal is to reflect real living expenses in the UK, which have gone up due to inflation. If you apply before November 11, 2025, you can use the old amounts. But if your application is after that date, you need to meet the new ones.

What Are the Current Maintenance Requirements?

Right now, for student visa applications, you need to show:

• For studies in London: £1,483 per month, up to a maximum of 9 months. That totals £13,347 for a full 9-month course.
• For studies outside London: £1,136 per month, up to 9 months. That comes to £10,224 for 9 months.

These amounts cover your living costs on top of your course fees. You also need to pay for your first year’s tuition, as shown on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your school. London means the City of London and the 32 boroughs. If your main campus is outside this area, you use the lower amount, even if you visit London sometimes.

The New Requirements Starting November 2025

From November 11, 2025, the amounts will increase. Here is a clear comparison:

These new figures are based on the updated maintenance loans for UK students. For example, if your course is 6 months long in London, you would need to show £1,529 x 6 = £9,174 for living costs, plus your tuition fees. For longer courses, it’s capped at 9 months.

There is also a change to the accommodation offset. If you have already paid for housing arranged by your school, you can subtract up to £1,529 from the total living cost amount you need to show. This was £1,334 before, so it’s going up too. This helps if you book dorms or university housing early.

How Do These Changes Affect Dependants?

If you plan to bring family members, like a spouse or children, they have their own maintenance requirements. Currently, it’s £845 per month in London or £680 outside, for up to 9 months per person. The government has not announced specific increases for dependants yet in this update, but they might adjust them later. Always check the latest rules if you have family coming with you.

Who Needs to Show These Funds?

Not everyone has to prove they have this money. There are exemptions:

• If you have been in the UK on a valid visa for at least 12 months before applying, you do not need to show funds.
• Students from certain countries under the “differential evidence” list, like Australia, Canada, or the USA, usually do not need to provide bank statements upfront. But the visa office might ask for them later.
• If you are applying as a student union officer, you might be exempt too.

For most international students, you need to show the money in a bank account, or through a student loan or sponsor. The funds must be in your account for at least 28 days in a row, and the statement should end no more than 31 days before your visa application. Acceptable proof includes bank statements, savings books, or official loan letters.

How to Calculate Your Total Funds Needed

Let’s break it down with an example. Say you are studying a 1-year master’s in Manchester (outside London). Your CAS shows tuition of £15,000.

• Pay the first year’s fees: £15,000 (or whatever is left after any payments).
• Living costs: £1,171 x 9 = £10,539 (new amount).
• Total: At least £25,539, plus any for dependants.

If you paid £1,000 for housing, you can reduce the living cost part by that amount, but not more than the max offset. Remember, you need to convert this to your local currency at the exchange rate on your application day.

Why This Matters for International Students

The UK is a top spot for higher education, with world-class universities and diverse cultures. But these changes mean you need to plan your budget better. The increase is small—about 3%—but it adds up, especially for families. It shows the UK wants students who are ready financially. If you do not meet the requirements, your visa could be refused, which delays your studies.

At Blue Horse Education, we see many students worried about costs. This update is part of bigger changes, like shorter post-study work visas in some cases. But the UK still welcomes talented students. With good planning, you can make it work.

Tips to Prepare for Your UK Student Visa

1. Start saving early: Aim for the new amounts if applying after November 2025.
2. Choose your location wisely: Studying outside London saves money on visa proof and real life.
3. Get your CAS soon: It tells you exact fees.
4. Use reliable banks: Make sure your statements are clear and meet the 28-day rule.
5. Check for scholarships: Many UK schools offer help to cover costs.
6. Talk to experts: Immigration rules change, so get advice.

If you need help with documents or applications, Blue Horse Education is here. We guide you through the process, from choosing schools to visa prep.

Final Thoughts

This update to UK student visa maintenance requirements is important for anyone dreaming of studying in the UK. By raising the living cost amounts to £1,529 in London and £1,171 outside, the government ensures students can focus on learning without money worries. Plan ahead, gather your papers, and you will be set. The UK offers great opportunities, and with the right support, you can achieve your goals.

At Blue Horse Education, we have helped thousands of students get their UK visas. Visit our website at https://bluehorseedu.com/ or contact us for free advice. Let’s make your UK study dream come true!