In a move aimed at ensuring international students have sufficient funds to support themselves while studying in the UK, the maintenance requirement for student visa applicants is set to increase from January 2025. The change will see the monthly maintenance funds requirement rise to £1483 for students studying in London and £1136 for those studying outside of London.
Currently, international students are required to demonstrate they have £1334 per month for London-based courses and £1023 per month for courses outside of London. These levels have remained unchanged since 2020, despite increases in maintenance loans available to home students.
The update aims to align the maintenance requirement for international students with the maintenance loans available to home students. The new levels will apply to students making a visa application on or after January 2, 2025. Until then, the current maintenance levels will remain in place.
Additionally, the maximum amount for the accommodation offset will also increase in line with the changes to the maintenance requirement. The accommodation offset allows students to demonstrate less maintenance funds if they have paid a deposit for their accommodation in the UK. The maximum offset will increase to £1483, currently £1334.
The maintenance levels for student dependants are also under review, with an update to be confirmed in due course. This change reflects the UK government’s commitment to ensuring international students have a positive and successful experience while studying in the country. By increasing the maintenance funds requirement, international students will be better equipped to support themselves and focus on their studies. International students contribute significantly to the UK’s education sector and this change demonstrates the government’s dedication to attracting and supporting top talent from around the world.
