UK student visa living cost requirement rises for Nigerians in November 2026

On or after 30 November 2026, Nigerians applying for a UK student visa will be required to show slightly more money for living costs. The change comes from the Home Office Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules, HC 584, which was laid before Parliament on 3 September 2026.

The adjustment does not affect tuition fees, visa fees or the health surcharge. It only raises the proof of funds amount that applicants must demonstrate for each month of a course up to nine months. The Home Office says the increase aligns the maintenance requirement with the maintenance loans available to home students for the 2026/2027 academic year.

The new rates apply based on the date the online application is submitted. Applications lodged before the cut off date in late November will be assessed under the existing threshold, while those submitted on or after 30 November will face the higher requirement. Both London and non London courses are affected, although London retains a higher figure to reflect its cost of living.

Applicants must still provide evidence of any outstanding first year tuition as shown on their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, together with visa and Immigration Health Surcharge costs. The 28 day rule on funds remains unchanged: the required balance must be held in an acceptable account for a continuous 28 days, ending within 31 days of the application date. Any dip below the threshold can lead to refusal.

There is a small relief for students who have already paid a university accommodation deposit, as that amount can be deducted from the living cost funds they need to evidence. The naira equivalent of the new threshold is higher at a time when exchange rates are already stretching family budgets. Prospective students who plan early, keep the required balance uninterrupted and maintain proper documentation will still be able to secure a visa, albeit with a slightly higher proof of funds amount.

The Home Office stresses that the change is not a ban on Nigerian students. The UK continues to host hundreds of thousands of international students each year, representing about a quarter of its higher education population. The aim is to ensure that incoming students are better equipped to support themselves after arrival.