UK Student Visa 2026: Proof of Funds Requirements Explained
The 28-day rule, acceptable accounts, and the documentation mistakes that cause refusals, explained by our visa team in plain language.
The 28-day rule in plain English
For most Student visa applications, your required funds must stay in an acceptable account for at least 28 consecutive days. The closing balance date must also be close enough to your visa application date, so timing matters.
The amount you need depends on unpaid tuition and living costs. London and outside-London living cost requirements are different, so do not copy someone else's calculation without checking your own CAS and study location.
Common mistakes we see
Students often submit bank statements with unexplained large deposits, missing account holder names, unclear dates or balances that drop below the required amount during the 28 days. These issues can lead to refusal even when the money is genuinely available.
If a parent or guardian is sponsoring you, the relationship documents and consent letter must be clear. If a company, uncle or family friend is funding you, get advice before assuming it will be accepted.
Before you apply
Check the statement dates, account type, account holder name, currency conversion and CAS tuition balance before paying the visa fee. A careful review before submission is much easier than trying to recover after a refusal.