- Published on February 22, 2026
- Bishnu K.
The UK offers a world of opportunities for international students, with a variety of options to fit different budgets and goals. When studying in the United Kingdom, students must prove that they have enough financial support to pay for their course fees and living expenses.
To ensure your journey starts smoothly, it helps to have a clear view of the financial requirements for your visa. Below, we break down the process into easy-to-follow steps, helping you organize your documents and demonstrate your readiness to join the UK’s vibrant academic community.
United Kingdom Financial Requirement
Course Fees
You must show enough funds to cover the tuition fees for one academic year (up to 9 months).
The amount: Check your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). it lists your total fees and any payments already made to the university.
Deductions: Any tuition deposit made to the university (and shown on your CAS) will be deducted from the total you need to show.
Living Costs
In addition to course fees, incoming students will need to prove they have the finances to support their living situation, whether it is a public or private institution. This is known as the ‘Financial Requirement’, and also differ based on where your institution is based in the UK:
If you’re studying at an institution outside of London – you are required to show £1,171 for each month of study, up to nine months of study.
If you’re studying at an institution in London – you are required to show £1,529 for each month of study, up to nine months.
For students who are bringing any dependents, for each dependent you must also show an additional:
If you are studying outside London – £680 per dependent
If you are studying inside London – £845 per dependent
The “28-Day Rule”
If using personal savings, the money must be in your account for at least 28 consecutive days.
No Drops: The balance must never drop below the required amount at any point during those 28 days.
Timing: Your bank statement must be dated within 31 days of your visa application date.
Currency: Funds in foreign currencies are converted using the spot exchange rate on OANDA.
Acceptable Proof of Funds
Acceptible
Personal bank statements (Savings/Current)
Student Loans (Government or Regulated)
Official Financial Scholarships (Government or University)
Parent’s bank statements*
Joint accounts (with you named)
Not Acceptible
Overdraft facilities or Credit Card
Stocks, Shares, or Bonds
Cryptocurrency
Pension funds (unless immediate withdrawal)
Bank accounts not regulated by a national body
*If using parents’ money, you must upload: (1) Your original birth certificate and (2) A signed letter of consent from them.
For more information on acceptable proof of funds and what is not accepted, please visit the UK Government’s website for guidance on Financial evidence for Student and Child Student visa applicants.
Document Checklist
Ensure your evidence includes:
Loan Letters: Must be dated within 6 months and confirm the loan is specifically for you and for your studies.
Bank Statements: Must show your name (or parent’s), account number, bank logo, and the full 28-day transaction history.
Sponsorship Letters: Must confirm the exact amount of money provided and the duration of the sponsorship.
Translations: Any document not in English must include a professional, certified translation.
Exemption: If you have been living in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date of your application, you generally do not need to provide financial evidence.
Next Steps
Once your funds are ready, ensure you have received your CAS from your institution before starting your visa application.
More information regarding the Proof of Funds requirement for the United Kingdom, as well as those who are not required to provide it, can be found on the government’s website.