Jasmine Grover Study Abroad Expert
Study Abroad Expert | Updated On - Dec 12, 2025
Planning to study in the UK in 2026? With over 76,000+ Indian students applying for UK student visas between Jan–May 2025, competition remains high—especially as new immigration rules make the process more demanding.
From increased financial requirements (Nov 2025) to dependent restrictions and upcoming Graduate Route changes (2027), staying updated regarding the latest UK Student Visa Requirements is crucial if you're applying for the Jan, May, or Sep 2026 intakes.
In this guide, Indian students will find: New UK student visa rules for 2026, eligibility requirements, updated financial proof requirements, and a complete UK student visa checklist.
Check Out:
- Top UK Universities for Indian Students
- UK Tightens Visa and English Language Rules: Students and Workers Face Higher Standards from 2026
- UK Student Visa New Rules
- What’s New in UK Study Visa Requirements for Indian Students
- UK Student Visa Eligibility for Indian Students
- Financial Requirements for UK Student Visa for Indian students
- English Language Requirements for UK Study Visa
- UK Visa Fees for Indian Students & Health Surcharge
- Documents Required for UK Student Visa from India
- FAQs
What’s New: UK Study Visa Requirement Updates for Indian Students 2026
The UK study visa requirements for Indian students have changed significantly from 2025, with further updates confirmed for 2026. These changes impact everything from financial documentation and visa fees to post-study work rights and dependant eligibility.
| Change Area | Status & Effective Date | Key Impact for 2026 Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Requirements | INCREASED (Effective: Nov 11, 2025) | You must show higher monthly funds: £1,529 (London) and £1,171 (Outside London). |
| Visa Application Fee | CURRENT (Effective: Apr 9, 2025) | Remains at £524. |
| Dependant Policy | RESTRICTION CONTINUES (Effective: Jan 2025) | Only PhD or government-funded research students can bring dependents |
| Graduate Route | CUT from Jan 2027 | Students who apply for the Graduate visa before January 1, 2027, will still get the full 2 years. 2026 starters still eligible for full 2-year PSW. |
| Visa Format | eVisa Transition (Effective: July 15, 2025) | BRP replaced with digital eVisa |
These policy shifts are aimed at reducing net migration while maintaining opportunities for genuine international students.
UK Student Visa Eligibility for Indian Students
To successfully apply for your UK Student Visa, Indian applicants must meet the following mandatory criteria:
- Offer Letter & CAS: You must hold an unconditional offer from a licensed Student Sponsor (UK university) and receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies reference number.
- Age: You must be 16 years or older.
- Financial Proof: You must show sufficient funds to cover your outstanding tuition fee and living costs (maintenance funds).
- English Proficiency: You must meet the required English language level (typically CEFR B2) through a recognised test or a university waiver.
- Application Window: You can apply up to 6 months before your course start date. The visa application must be submitted within 6 months of the CAS being issued.
You are eligible if you:
- Have an unconditional offer + CAS
- Are 16+
- Meet financial requirements
- Meet English proficiency
- Apply within 6 months of CAS
These conditions form the core of the UK student visa requirements for Indian students.
New Financial Requirements for UK Student Visa (Maintenance Funds)
The UK government has raised the minimum financial requirements for international students applying for a UK Student visa. The funds must be readily available and verifiable.
How Much Money Must You Show?
You must prove you have enough money to cover your outstanding tuition fee for the first year (as stated on your CAS) PLUS the maintenance funds below for a maximum of 9 months:
| Study Location (for 9 months) | Monthly Living Cost (Effective Nov 2025) | Total Maintenance (9 Months) |
|---|---|---|
| London (Inner London Boroughs) | £1,529 (INR 1.85 Lakhs) | £13,761 (INR 16.6 Lakhs) |
| Outside London | £1,171 (INR 1.4 Lakhs) | £10,539 (INR 12.75 Lakhs) |
In addition to this, show proof of 1st-year tuition fees (or remaining amount as per CAS).
Example:
If your tuition fee is £17,000 and you’ve paid £4,000, you must show:
- Outstanding tuition: £13,000
- Maintenance (London): £13,761
- Total Required Funds: £26,761
Acceptable Financial Proof:
To meet UK student visa requirements for Indian students, you can submit the following as proof of funds for UK visa
- Bank statements (in your name or your parents)
- Education loan sanction letter (from an RBI-approved bank)
- Scholarship or sponsorship letters, if applicable
The Critical 28-Day Rule
Your financial evidence must meet these rules without exception:
- Funds Held: The full required amount (Outstanding Fee + Maintenance) must be held for a continuous period of at least 28 consecutive days.
- Statement Date: The final date (closing balance) on your bank statement must be no more than 31 days before the date you pay for and submit your online visa application.
Crucial Note: If using a parent's account, you must provide your birth certificate and a signed letter from the parent/guardian confirming financial support.
Common Rejection Reason: Even ₹20–30 short on any day within the 28 days can result in refusal.
English Language Requirements for UK Study Visa
To meet the UK Student Visa Requirements, you must prove English at the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) Level B2.
- Approved Tests: Most Indian students use IELTS Academic or PTE Academic. The required score is determined by your university, but generally falls between 6.0 and 6.5 for Master's programs.
- Exemption (Waiver): You are usually exempt if your university confirms on your CAS that they have assessed your English ability (e.g., based on high English scores in Class 12 exams).
Approved English Tests and Minimum Scores
| Test Type | Minimum Score (for degree-level study – B2 CEFR level) |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 – 6.5 (varies by university and program) |
| TOEFL iBT | 72+ |
| Pearson PTE | 51+ |
| LanguageCert SELT | B2 Pass |
Your test result must be valid at the time of your visa application and listed on the UK Home Office’s approved SELT provider list. You must meet CEFR B2 level. IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, and LanguageCert are accepted.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate
Indian applicants must submit a TB Test Certificate obtained from a UKVI-approved clinic in India. This test is mandatory and must be conducted before submitting your visa application.
Check Out: IELTS Score for UK
UK Visa Fees for Indian Students & Health Surcharge
When applying for a UK study visa, Indian students must pay two mandatory fees:
Both must be paid online when you submit your visa application.
UK Student Visa Application Fee
UK Student Visa Application Fee is non-refundable, even if the visa is refused or withdrawn.
| Fee Type | Amount (as of April 9, 2025) |
|---|---|
| Standard Student Visa | £524 (approx INR 63,000) |
| Priority Processing (optional) | Additional £500 – £1,000+ (Varies by VAC location) |
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The IHS allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
- IHS Cost per Year – £776 (approx INR 93,894)
Note: You pay for each year (or part year) of your visa, not just the course duration.
Total Estimated Visa Costs for Indian Students for 1-Year Masters
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | £524 |
| IHS for 2-Year Program | £1,552 |
| Total Upfront Visa Costs | £2,076 (~₹2.5 lakh) |
UK visas usually include a 4-month buffer post-course. A 1-year course = ~16-month visa, so IHS is paid for 2 full years = £1,552.
Documents Required for UK Student Visa from India
To successfully apply for a UK student visa, Indian students must submit a complete set of documents proving eligibility, finances, and academic readiness. Below is a structured list of all documents required for UK student visa from India.
Mandatory Documents:
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for full duration of stay |
| CAS Letter | Issued by UK university |
| Proof of Funds | Bank/loan/scholarship |
| English Test | IELTS/PTE/TOEFL or waiver |
| TB Test | From UKVI-approved clinic |
| Academic Records | Transcripts, degree certificates |
| Visa Application Form | Filled on gov.uk + payment receipt |
| IHS Payment Proof | Download after payment |
| Photo | As per UKVI specs |
Additional Documents (If Applicable):
- Under 18: Parental consent + birth certificate
- Scholarship award letter
- ATAS certificate (STEM/Military-linked programs only)
The processing time for a UK student visa is around 3 weeks. If you need your visa faster, priority services are available, depending on your location.
Most Common Mistakes
- Submitting bank statements older than 31 days
- Funds dropping even once during 28 days
- Applying with incorrect English test type
- Not matching name spelling across documents
- Using unapproved banks or loan formats
Also Check: UK Student Visa Rejection Reasons
With updated rules in 2025 and more changes coming in 2026, understanding the UK student visa requirements for Indian students is essential. It is to prepare your documents, financial proof, and application early to meet all UK study visa requirements without delays.
FAQs
Ques: How much bank balance is required for a UK student visa in 2026?
Ans: You must show enough to cover:
- 9 months of living expenses:
- £13,761 (London) → based on £1,529/month
- £10,539 (outside London) → based on £1,171/month
- Plus your first-year tuition fees (as shown on your CAS)
The entire amount must be held in your account for 28 consecutive days, and your final bank statement must be dated within 31 days of your visa application
Ques: What is the UK visa fee for Indian students?
Ans: The UK student visa fee is £524, and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is £776 per year of your stay. Both must be paid online during the visa application process.
Ques: What documents are required for UK student visa from India?
Ans: Required documents include passport, CAS letter, bank statements, English test scores, TB test certificate, academic records, visa form, IHS receipt, and biometrics. Additional documents may apply based on age or course.
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