The UK Home Office has increased the proof-of-funds requirement for student visa applicants, with the new amount rising to £1,483 per month for students in London and £1,136 outside London. This change, effective January 2025, aims to address inflation and the higher cost of living in the UK.
The UK Home Office has announced an increase in the proof-of-funds requirement for student visa applicants, effective January 2, 2025. The monthly maintenance requirement for students in London will rise from £1,334 to £1,483, while those studying outside London will see an increase from £1,023 to £1,136.
This adjustment is aimed at addressing inflation and the rising cost of living in the UK. To meet the updated requirements, international students will need to prove they have adequate funds to cover their living expenses during their stay.
The increased financial obligations may have a significant impact on Nigerian students, who make up a large portion of the UK's international student population. With the Naira’s ongoing depreciation, many Nigerian families could find it harder to meet the new proof-of-funds criteria, potentially leading to a decline in the number of students pursuing education in the UK.
This change emphasizes the importance of financial planning for prospective students and may call for support systems to help ease the economic challenges of studying abroad.
