The UK announces higher financial requirements for prospective international students applying for study visas, with the changes taking effect from 30 November 2026. The updates require applicants to prove increased access to funds for living costs while studying in the UK, in addition to tuition fees.
Across reports focusing on Nigerian applicants, outlets say the “maintenance” amounts depend on where students study. Those enrolled in London courses face higher monthly requirements and a higher total minimum for courses lasting nine months or longer, while students studying outside London also see increases. Multiple outlets describe the maintenance funds as separate from tuition and note that applicants must still account for other costs such as visa application charges and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which covers access to the UK’s National Health Service.
The differing angles are mostly about how much specific detail is provided. Some outlets concentrate on the headline policy change and the effective date, while others include breakdowns of London versus outside-London thresholds and the amounts applicants must demonstrate over the relevant period.
