UK raises student visa living‑expense proof to £14,130 for London

The UK Home Office has raised the living‑expense requirement for student visas. From 30 November 2026, applicants studying in London must prove access to at least £14,130.

The rule applies to all prospective international students, including Nigerians, who plan to attend British universities. Students must still meet tuition‑fee and other visa costs, but the monthly amount for London rises to £1,570, up from £1,529.

The change follows earlier increases, such as the January 2025 rise to £1,483 per month for London and £1,136 for other regions. It reflects higher living costs in the UK and adds a financial burden for Nigerian applicants.

International students remain a major source of revenue for UK universities, but accommodation costs and limited work hours continue to pose challenges. Recent data show the UK issued 30,204 study visas to Nigerians in 2025, a 59% increase on 2024, while some universities have withdrawn offers amid higher visa refusal rates.