The UK government has announced a significant increase in the financial requirements for international students, effective January 2, 2025. This is the first adjustment since 2020 and reflects the rising cost of living across the country.
Under the new regulations, international students must demonstrate they have adequate funds to cover living expenses for up to nine months. The requirements vary based on whether students will study in London or elsewhere:
- Studying in London: Students must show proof of £1,483 per month, up from £1,334, which is an 11.2% increase.
- Studying Outside London: Students need to prove they have £1,136 per month, an increase from £1,023, reflecting an 11.1% rise.
These changes aim to align the financial thresholds for international students with the maintenance loans available to domestic students, with the last review occurring in 2020.
For students studying in London for nine months or longer, a total of £13,348 in savings will be required, based on the new monthly figure of £1,483.
Reports indicate that these adjustments are designed to keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of living in the UK, ensuring that international students can adequately support themselves during their studies.