In a recent development that will impact international students planning to study in the United Kingdom, the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) announced a Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules on 14 October 2025.
These updates primarily focus on two major areas: an increase in maintenance fund requirements for students and revisions to the Graduate Route post-study work visa duration.
Increased Financial Requirements from 11 November 2025
Starting 11 November 2025, all students applying under the UK’s Student Route (Tier 4) will need to demonstrate higher financial capability to cover living expenses during their studies. The new maintenance requirements are as follows:
£1,529 per month for students studying in London (for up to 9 months)
£1,171 per month for students studying outside London (for up to 9 months)
In addition, the maximum accommodation offset will increase to £1,529, aligning with the updated maintenance figures.
This adjustment aims to reflect the rising cost of living in the UK, especially in major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. However, it also means students must plan their finances more carefully before applying. Those relying on family funds or education loans should ensure they have adequate documentation to prove the required financial stability.
Graduate Route Changes Effective from January 2027
From 1 January 2027, there will be a significant change to the Graduate Route, which allows international students to stay and work in the UK after completing their degrees.
Under the new rules:
Students completing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree will be granted 18 months of post-study work permission, a reduction from the current 2-year duration.
PhD and other doctoral graduates will continue to receive 3 years of post-study stay permission.
These revisions were initially outlined in the Immigration White Paper published in May 2025, with the goal of aligning post-study opportunities with evolving workforce needs.
Importantly, students applying for the Graduate Route before 1 January 2027 will not be affected by the new duration limits.
What This Means for Future Students
For Indian students applying for the October/November 2025 intakes, this transition period offers a clear advantage. Completing studies before 1st January 2027 ensures eligibility for the current two-year Graduate Route, allowing more time to gain valuable UK work experience.
However, prospective students must also prepare for the increased financial threshold from November 2025. Ensuring sufficient funds, whether through personal savings, bank loans, or scholarships, will be crucial to a successful visa application.
Expert Advice for Indian Applicants
As a UK education agency, our advice is straightforward: plan early and stay informed. The UK remains one of the most attractive destinations for higher education, offering global exposure, top-tier universities, and excellent career opportunities.
But with these new changes, the importance of financial planning, timely applications, and professional guidance has never been greater.
Students should also consider universities located outside London to reduce living expenses while still enjoying access to world-class education and employability. Additionally, exploring scholarship options and assistantships can help offset the higher maintenance costs.
For the latest updates on studying in the UK, including university selection, visa guidance, and financial planning, connect with ScholarshipKart. Our experts will help you navigate the application process, prepare your documents, and secure the best opportunities for your UK study journey.