Financial Requirements for UK Student Visa

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee for international students, including those from India, applying for a UK Student Visa. Paying this surcharge grants you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), providing you with the same healthcare benefits as a UK resident for the duration of your stay.

The IHS is an upfront cost calculated based on the total length of the visa granted, not just the course dates. As of late 2025, the standard student rate is £776 per year.

Key Cost Breakdown:

• Annual Rate: £776
• Part-Year Rate (6 months or less): £388
• Standard 3-Year Undergraduate Degree: Since visas usually include an extra 4 months at the end, the total IHS fee is typically £2,716 (approx. ₹3,01,000).
• 1-Year Master’s Degree: Often requires a payment of £1,164 (covering the 12-month course plus the 4–6 month post-study wrap-up period).

It is essential to budget for this cost separately from your visa application fee (which is currently £524) and your maintenance funds, as the IHS must be paid in full during your online application.

Also Check: Immigration Health Surcharge UK Student Visa

The 28-Day Rule

A vital aspect of proving financial capacity is adhering to the 28-day rule. This means that the required funds (outstanding tuition + maintenance) must be held in your account for a continuous period of at least 28 consecutive days.

• The "No-Dip" Policy: The balance must not drop below the required amount for even a single second during this period. If it dips due to a bank fee or a small transaction, the 28-day clock resets to zero.
• The 31-Day Validity: Your bank statement or letter must be issued no more than 31 days before the date you pay for your visa application online.
• Electronic Verification: Starting in 2025, the Home Office has increased its use of digital verification. Ensure your bank keeps electronic records and is regulated by the official body in your country (e.g., RBI in India), as UKVI will not accept funds from "non-electronic" or unregulated institutions.

Failure to comply with the 28-day rule is the #1 cause of UK visa rejection. It is crucial to keep the total sum available and untouched until your visa is granted. Additionally, if a large deposit is made just before the 28-day period begins, be prepared to provide a "Source of Funds" explanation (e.g., property sale or savings) to satisfy the Genuine Student requirement. 

Acceptable Proof of Funds

The UK government accepts various types of financial proof:

• Personal Bank Accounts: Funds can be held in personal bank or building society accounts, provided they allow for immediate access.
• Parent’s Accounts: If using your parents’ account, you must submit a letter of consent and proof of relationship (e.g., a birth certificate).
• Educational Loans: Loans from recognized institutions are acceptable as long as they cover the required tuition and living expenses.
• Scholarships and Sponsorships: If awarded, scholarships or official sponsorships can serve as financial proof.
• Fixed Deposits: These can be used as long as they are easily accessible for payment.

Note that money held by other relatives, such as siblings or uncles, is not accepted, and affidavits cannot replace official documents proving legal guardianship.

Also check: UK Scholarships for Indian Students

Tips for a Successful Application

• Adhere to the 28-Day Rule: Make sure the funds remain in the account for the required duration and don’t fall below the minimum threshold.
• Submit Verifiable Documents: Ensure all bank statements, loan letters, and sponsorships are legitimate and can be authenticated by the relevant authorities.
• Plan for Currency Fluctuations: Deposit more than the required amount as a safeguard against currency value drops.
• Pay Tuition Fees in Advance: Paying a portion or all of your tuition fees before applying can reduce the total amount you need to hold in your account.

Also Check: Student Accommodation in London City

Indian students should take proactive steps to ensure they meet the UK visa’s updated financial requirements. Start by securing the necessary funds early, adhere strictly to the 28-day rule, and maintain verifiable documentation. Pay as much of your tuition upfront as possible to reduce the financial burden. Consulting with immigration advisers can clarify specific details, and regularly reviewing the Gov.uk website for any updates will keep you informed throughout the application process.