The United Kingdom is set to implement significant changes to its student visa requirements starting in January 2025. Prospective international students, including a large number of Indian applicants, will face higher minimum maintenance funds to address inflation and rising living costs.
Currently, students attending universities outside London must show £1,023 (Rs 1,12,248.98) per month for living expenses, while those in London need £1,334 (Rs 1,46,373.55). From 2025, these amounts will increase by over 11%. Students in London will need to demonstrate £1,483 (Rs 1,62,722.62) per month, and those outside London will need £1,136 (Rs 1,24,647.94).
This adjustment, aimed at reflecting the actual cost of living, is expected to impact Indian students particularly hard. Many already spend over Rs 20 lakh annually on tuition and living expenses, and the new financial requirements could add to the strain on families, especially those from modest financial backgrounds.
Despite this increase, Indian students may still consider the UK as a top education destination due to factors like quality education, post-study work opportunities, and high visa acceptance rates.
