UKVI Proof of Funds for UK Student Visa (2026 Guide)
UKVI proof of funds rules can be confusing — this guide breaks them down clearly for UK Student Visa applicants. UKVI proof of funds is one of the most common reasons students get delayed or refused — not because they don’t have money, but because the evidence doesn’t meet the rules. This guide explains the UKVI requirements in plain language, including the 28-day rule, 31-day rule, London vs outside-London amounts, and how Nigerians can use OANDA exchange rates correctly.
1) UK Student Visa Proof of Funds Calculator
2) UK Student Visa 28-Day Rule Checker
3) UK Student Visa Financial Risk Checker
What UKVI Means by “Proof of Funds”
UKVI expects you to show you can pay:
- Outstanding tuition fees (as stated on your CAS), plus
- Living costs (maintenance) for your course length (up to a maximum of 9 months), plus
- Dependants’ living costs (only if dependants are permitted for your route and you’re bringing them).
Always confirm your exact tuition/outstanding amount on your CAS or offer documents. Your maintenance requirement depends on whether your institution is in London.
UKVI 2026 Living Costs Amounts (London vs Outside London)
For most Student route applicants, UKVI uses these monthly maintenance amounts (up to 9 months):
- Outside London: £1,171 per month (max 9 months)
- In London: £1,529 per month (max 9 months)
For each dependant you bring (where applicable):
- Outside London: £680 per month (max 9 months)
- In London: £845 per month (max 9 months)
Official source: GOV.UK financial evidence guidance.
The UK Student Visa 28-Day Rule (Explained Simply)
The 28-day rule means your required funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days. Importantly, UKVI looks at your lowest balance during that 28-day period.
If the balance dropped below the required amount even once, it can become a problem. Use our 28-Day Rule Checker to verify your dates.
Common 28-Day mistakes
- Counting 28 days incorrectly
- Using the statement “opening date” instead of the actual 28-day start date
- Ignoring a one-day dip below the required amount
- Large deposits close to the 28-day window with weak documentation
The UKVI 31-Day Rule (Closing Date vs Application Date)
Your financial evidence should be dated close enough to your application. UKVI guidance commonly requires that the closing date on your bank statement is within 31 days of your visa application date.
In other words: even if you held the funds for 28 days, you can still have an issue if your statement is too old by the time you submit.
Nigeria Tip: Using OANDA Exchange Rates Properly
Many Nigerians save in Naira, so you’ll often convert your balance to GBP equivalent. UKVI commonly references OANDA exchange rates, and small exchange rate changes can affect your GBP equivalent.
- Confirm the GBP→NGN rate on the day you’re assessing your funds
- Leave a buffer (don’t calculate “exactly” to the minimum)
- Document how you calculated the conversion if needed
Use our Proof of Funds Calculator and your Financial Risk Checker to test your numbers and timing.
Red Flags UKVI Often Questions (Even When You Have the Money)
- Large deposits close to the 28-day window without a clear source
- Gifts without a gift letter and evidence of the giver’s source of funds
- Loans that don’t meet acceptable student loan rules
- Sponsor/parent accounts without relationship evidence and consent
- Multiple accounts without clear ownership and traceability
If you want a quick verdict, use the UK Student Visa Financial Risk Checker.
Quick Checklist Before You Apply
- Know your outstanding tuition from your CAS/offer
- Calculate the correct maintenance (London vs outside London)
- Confirm the funds were held for 28 consecutive days
- Ensure your statement closing date is within 31 days of application
- Prepare explanations/evidence for any large deposits
- Use the correct exchange rate approach if converting from NGN (OANDA + buffer)
Want a professional review before you submit?
Or visit: Our Services • Study in the UK
UKVI Proof of Funds FAQs
What is UKVI proof of funds for a UK Student Visa?
It’s the financial evidence showing you can pay any outstanding tuition plus the required monthly living costs (maintenance), and dependants’ costs where applicable.
What is the UK Student Visa 28-day rule?
UKVI expects the required funds to be held for at least 28 consecutive days. Your lowest balance during that period matters.
What is the UKVI 31-day rule?
Your bank statement closing date should be within 31 days of your visa application date (based on the UKVI financial evidence guidance).
How much maintenance do I need for UKVI in 2026?
For most students: £1,171/month outside London or £1,529/month in London (up to 9 months). Confirm using GOV.UK guidance.
Can I use a parent or sponsor account?
Often yes, but you typically need a consent/sponsor letter and evidence of relationship, plus source-of-funds documentation if needed.
Does UKVI accept large deposits?
Large deposits can be accepted, but they often require clear explanation and evidence (gift letter, sale evidence, salary trail, etc.) depending on the source.
What exchange rate should Nigerians use to convert Naira to GBP?
UKVI commonly references OANDA exchange rates. Check the rate and keep a buffer to reduce risk from daily fluctuations.
Where can I verify the official rules?
Use the official GOV.UK financial evidence guidance for Student route applicants.