If you’re planning to study in the UK, listen up! The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has highlighted important changes to the Student and Graduate visa routes that will affect both your application process and your post-study options. Here’s a breakdown of the updates you need to be aware of:
1. Increased Maintenance Fund Requirements (From November 11, 2025)
The amount of money you need to show as evidence of funds (maintenance) to support yourself during your studies is increasing significantly.
| Location | New Monthly Requirement | Previous Requirement |
| London | £1,529 per month | £1,334 per month |
| Outside London | £1,171 per month | £1,023 per month |
- Maximum Offset: The maximum amount you can offset for accommodation paid to your sponsor is also increasing to £1,529.
- When it Applies: This change is effective for all Student route applications made on or after November 11, 2025.
2. Shorter Graduate Visa for Most Students (From January 1, 2027)
The highly popular Graduate route—which allows international students to stay and work in the UK after graduation—is being shortened for most applicants.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Graduates: If you successfully complete an eligible UK Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, your Graduate visa will be granted for 18 months (a reduction from the current two years).
- When it Applies: This change only affects applications made on or after January 1, 2027.
- PhD Graduates Unaffected: Students who successfully complete a PhD or other doctoral qualification will still be granted three years of permission under the Graduate route.
If you are a current student or plan to start a course soon, these changes are critical for your financial planning and post-graduation career strategy.
That’s an important addition! To make the article actionable for students, I will integrate the contact information for “Study Abroad Life” as a consultation resource.
Here is the revised article:
Major Changes to UK Student Visas: What International Students Need to Know
If you’re planning to study in the UK, listen up! The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has highlighted important changes to the Student and Graduate visa routes that will affect both your application process and your post-study options. Here’s a breakdown of the updates you need to be aware of:
1. Increased Maintenance Fund Requirements (From November 11, 2025)
The amount of money you need to show as evidence of funds (maintenance) to support yourself during your studies is increasing significantly.
| Location | New Monthly Requirement |
| London | £1,529 per month |
| Outside London | £1,171 per month |
- Maximum Offset: The maximum amount you can offset for accommodation paid to your sponsor is also increasing to £1,529.
- When it Applies: This change is effective for all Student route applications made on or after November 11, 2025.
2. Shorter Graduate Visa for Most Students (From January 1, 2027)
The highly popular Graduate route—which allows international students to stay and work in the UK after graduation—is being shortened for most applicants.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Graduates: If you successfully complete an eligible UK Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, your Graduate visa will be granted for 18 months (a reduction from the current two years).
- When it Applies: This change only affects applications made on or after January 1, 2027.
- PhD Graduates Unaffected: Students who successfully complete a PhD or other doctoral qualification will still be granted three years of permission under the Graduate route.
📣 Need Personalised Advice? Contact Study Abroad Life
Understanding these immigration rules is crucial for a successful study journey. For guidance on how these changes affect your specific application, university selection, or financial planning, reach out to the experts.
Study Abroad Life (SAL) Contact Information:
- Student Admissions Email: intl@studyabroadlife.org
- Phone (India): +91 78754 33456 or +91 78754 33487
