Financial Evidence for UK Student and Child Student Visas

Applying for a UK Student visa or Child Student visa requires applicants to meet strict financial requirements. The Home Office expects you to prove that you have enough money to pay your tuition fees and living costs in the UK, as well as financial support for any dependants. Failing to provide the correct financial evidence is one of the most common reasons for visa refusals.

At Deluxe Law Chambers, our expert immigration solicitors regularly assist international students and parents with preparing strong visa applications, ensuring the right financial documents are provided to avoid unnecessary refusals or delays.

In this guide, we explain:

• How much money you need for a Student visa
• How much money you need for a Child Student visa
• The types of financial evidence the Home Office accepts
• Which applicants are exempt from submitting financial documents upfront

How Much Money Do You Need for a UK Student Visa?

Here is the breakdown:

1. Course Fees

You must show you can pay your course fees as listed on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Your education provider issues the CAS when they offer you a place.

2. Living Costs

In addition to tuition fees, you need to demonstrate funds for your maintenance:

• Studying in London: £1,483 per month (up to a maximum of 9 months)
• Studying outside London: £1,136 per month (up to a maximum of 9 months)

If you are bringing dependants with you:

• In London: £845 per dependant, per month (up to 9 months)
• Outside London: £680 per dependant, per month (up to 9 months)

If you are boarding at a residential independent school, you must show you can pay your boarding fees for one full academic year.

How Much Money Do You Need for a Child Student Visa?

The amount required depends on your living arrangements:

• Boarding at a residential independent school: You must show funds to cover full boarding fees for one academic year.
• Living with a foster carer or close relative in the UK: £570 per month (up to 9 months).
• Living with a parent who holds a Parent of a Child Student visa:
  • £1,560 per month for the first child
  • £625 per month for each additional child
• Living independently as a 16 or 17-year-old:
  • £1,334 per month in London (up to 9 months)
  • £1,023 per month outside London (up to 9 months)

Proving You Have Enough Money

You can rely on the following sources to prove your financial capacity:

• Student loan from a government or regulated student loan company
• Official financial sponsorship from a government, university, or recognised institution
• Personal savings (in your own name, or in the name of your parent or partner, with written consent)

You cannot use: overdrafts, cryptocurrency, stocks and shares, pensions, or accounts not regulated by recognised financial authorities.

Acceptable Financial Documents

To meet the Home Office requirements, your documents must be dated within 31 days of your application and clearly show:

• Account holder’s name
• Name of the bank or financial institution
• Balance available

Accepted forms of evidence include:

• Bank statements (paper or online)
• Building society passbooks
• Certificates of deposit
• Bank letters

Importantly, you must hold the required funds for at least 28 consecutive days before your visa application.

Exemptions: Who Does Not Need to Provide Financial Evidence Upfront?

You may not need to submit financial documents when applying if:

• You are extending your visa from inside the UK and have held valid leave for 12 months or more
• You are applying as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer
• You are a doctor or dentist in training
• You hold a passport from certain exempt nationalities

Exempt Nationalities Include:

• British National (Overseas), Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, Taiwan (with ID card number)
• Nationals of countries such as Australia, Canada, USA, Singapore, Japan, EU countries, Switzerland, Norway, New Zealand, Malaysia, UAE, and many more

While exempt applicants are not required to provide evidence upfront, the Home Office may still request financial documents during the application process.

How Deluxe Law Chambers Can Help

Providing the correct financial evidence for a Student or Child Student visa is essential to avoid refusal. Even small errors—such as submitting the wrong type of bank statement, or not meeting the 28-day rule—can result in your application being rejected.

At Deluxe Law Chambers, our experienced UK immigration solicitors can:

• Assess your eligibility and financial requirements
• Review your bank statements and supporting documents before submission
• Guide you on dependants’ financial requirements
• Prepare your visa application to maximise your chances of approval

Contact Our Immigration Solicitors Today

If you need expert advice on Student visas, Child Student visas, or proving your financial evidence, contact Deluxe Law Chambers today. Our dedicated team of immigration solicitors in the UK provides professional, reliable, and tailored legal support for international students and families.

📞 Call us now on 01614644140 or send an enquiry to book your consultation.