As an international student planning to study in the United Kingdom, one of the most important parts of your student Visa is your proof of funds. This simply means showing the UK government that you or your sponsor can financially support you while you are studying.
The UK government has updated the financial requirements for international students, so it is important to understand these changes before you submit your application.
However, before we proceed to these new requirements, you need to understand what proof of funds is.
What is Proof of Fund (POF)?
Proof of Funds is the financial evidence or bank evidence that one provides to show that they can cover their study or living expenses in the UK.
These funds will cover your first-year tuition fees and living expenses for up to 9 months. The money can either be in your account or your sponsor’s account, but you will need to show official documentation to prove it.
In 2025, the UK government made some significant changes to its financial requirements for all its visa applications, including student visas.
Key Financial Changes for UK Visa In 2025
Below are the major changes in the UK proof of funds requirement according to their official website:
Higher Living Expenses: For students studying in London, you will need to show £1,400 per month, while if you are studying outside London, it is £1,100 per month, up from £1,334 and £1,023 respectively.
Increased Visa Fees: Visa application fees have also gone up, so be sure to budget for that too.
How Much Money Do You Need for a UK Student Visa in 2025?
For international students who want to study in the UK, you must pay your course fees, specified on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Aside from the money stated for your course fees, you also need to show the money needed for your living costs.
- If you are studying in London, you need £1,483 per month (up to 9 months) = £13,347
- If you are studying outside London, you £1,136 per month (up to 9 months) = £10,224
- In the case of you bringing Dependents Along, you will need extra money for each dependent. In London: £845/month = up to £7,605 while outside London: £680/month = up to £6,120
Additionally, if you board at a residential independent school, you need enough money to pay boarding fees for one academic year.
How to Show Proof of Funds for UK Visa
It is essential to provide this relevant document with enough evidence, as they are a very crucial part of your visa application process
Using Your Own Bank Statement
Ensure your bank statement has the following:
Your name, account number, bank logo, and transactions
The required amount must be in your account for 28 consecutive days
The statement must end no more than 31 days before your visa application date
Using a Sponsor’s Bank Account (Parent/Guardian/Partner)
If you are using this as proof of fund, you will need to provide:
A consent letter from them stating they’re supporting you
Their bank statements show they have the required amount
Proof that the money is legally earned and readily available for you
Scholarship/Sponsorship
If you are on a financial sponsorship, ensure you submit:
The reference number from your CAS (if recorded there)
A sponsorship letter with the sponsor’s name, contact details, and date, duration of sponsorship, and amount covered, or confirmation of full funding
Student Loan
If you are on a student loan, show a loan letter that is less than 6 months old, clearly stating that it is a student loan
Also lists the amount, terms, and who it is for, and makes sure the letter confirms the loan will be available before your course starts
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Documents You Cannot Use as Proof of Funds
The UK Government has banned some documents, and they cannot be used as proof of funds during a visa application.
Using any of these documents can lead to a visa refusal. Some of the documents include:
Overdrafts
Cryptocurrency wallets
Stocks and shares
Pension funds
Unregulated bank accounts
Paper-only (non-digital) bank records
Do You Always Need to Show Proof of Funds?
No, it is not in all cases; you will need to prove you have enough funds to live in the UK. Some of the circumstances include:
- You have had a valid UK visa for at least the past 12 months and are currently in the UK.
- You are a student union sabbatical officer. These positions are usually paid.
- You are applying for a visa as a postgraduate doctor or dentist funded by a recognised foundation program.
- Your country is listed under “differential evidence requirement.” However, this does not apply to Nigerian citizens.
If any of these apply to you, you may not need to show funds, but you will still have to provide supporting evidence during your visa application.
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