Summary

To get a UK student visa, you must show that you have enough money. This includes tuition fees and living costs. The bank statement must show that the money has been in your account for at least 28 days. The amount depends on your course and where you will live.

Introduction

You need to get a student visa if you want to study in the UK. One important part of this process is showing proof of money. 

This proof comes from your bank statement. The UK government wants to know that you can pay for your studies and living costs. 

In this blog, we will explain how much bank statement is required, how long the money should stay in your account, and how to avoid rejection.

What is a Bank Statement for a UK Student Visa?

Your bank statement shows your total savings. It’s needed to support your UK student visa application. This statement must be from a trusted bank. 

It should include your name, the account number, the bank’s name and logo, and the total money available. This is part of your “financial requirement” for the visa.

What is the Required Amount to Show in Your Bank Statement?

For getting a UK student visa, you must show that you have enough money. This includes your tuition fees and living expenses. Both are important. If you fail to show the full amount, your visa may be refused.

• Tuition Fees

The cost of tuition in the UK varies by university and subject.

• Fees for overseas undergraduate students normally vary from £11,400 to £38,000 a year.
• Fees for overseas postgraduate students normally vary from £9,000 to £30,000 a year.

It is required to show the complete tuition fee for year one. This confirms your financial readiness. If your course is shorter than a year, then show the full course fee.

Example:

Your total tuition is £15,000. If £5,000 is already paid, then you must show the rest £10,000 in your bank account.

• Living Costs

You must also show that you have money for living in the UK. This amount depends on where you will live:

In London: You must show £1,300-1,400 per month for up to 9 months. The overall average amount is £12,006.

Outside London: It’s necessary to show that you have £900 to £1300 a month for up to 9 months. The average total sum is £9,207.

• Courses Longer Than a Year

Even if your course is longer than a year, you only need to show funds for the first year of tuition and up to 9 months of living expenses.

Duration of Funds in the Bank Account

UKVI has strict rules about how long the money should be in your account. You must keep the required amount of money in your bank account for at least 28 continuous days.

Here’s what this means:

• During the 28-day period, your balance must not fall below the required amount.
• After the 28 days are over, you must submit your visa within 31 days. This rule must be followed carefully.
• If your funds drop below the required level for even one day, your application could be refused.

Accepted Bank Statement Formats

You can submit your bank statement in the following formats:

• Printed statement from your bank (with stamp or signature)
• Online bank statement (with bank stamp or official letter)
• Official bank letter (on letterhead with signature)

The statement must include:

• Your name
• Account number
• Bank’s name and logo
• The amount of money
• Date of the statement
• The statement must show 28 days of transactions. 
• If written in another language, an English translation is also needed.

Who Can Support Your Visa as a Sponsor?

If you don’t have the money yourself, someone else can support you. This is called a sponsor. Acceptable sponsors include:

Parents or Legal Guardians

• You must provide your birth certificate to show your relationship
• Also, submit a letter from your parent or guardian confirming they are sponsoring you

Official Sponsors

• UK government
• Your home country’s government
• Recognized international scholarship bodies (e.g., Chevening, Commonwealth)

Bank Loan for Education

• Must be from a regulated financial institution.
• The loan must clearly state that it is for your education.

Note:

Money from relatives (like an uncle or an aunt) who are not your legal guardians may not be accepted.

Common Reasons for Bank Statement Rejection

A lot of visa refusals arise because of simple errors. Before you send in your documents, make sure to verify them twice. Some common reasons are:

• Not having enough money in the account.
• The money was not in the account for 28 full days.
• Using an old or expired bank statement.
• Missing details like the account number or name.
• Statements not in English.
• Fake or edited bank statements.

Tips to Avoid Rejection

To stay safe and avoid problems:

• At least a month before you apply, start getting your bank statement ready.
• To be cautious, have some additional cash in your account.
• Make sure your bank documents are correct.
• Ask your bank to stamp and sign all printed statements.
• If using online statements, make sure they are clear and contain all required details.
• Translate all documents that are not in English.

What If You Fail to Meet the Requirement?

If you fail to show enough money or make a mistake with your documents:

• Your visa application will be refused.
• You will lose the visa fee.
• Also, you may have to delay your studies.
• You may need to reapply with the correct documents.

Wrapping Up

Showing the right bank statement is a key step in your UK student visa process. It proves you can pay for your studies and living costs. Ensure the money stays in your account for 28 days. 

Always use the correct format and give clear documents. Check the required amount based on your study location. 

To prevent having your visa denied, follow all the regulations. You may start your study journey with confidence if you prepare properly.

FAQs

What is the 28‑day rule for UK student visa finances?

You must keep the required money in your account for 28 continuous days. The statement must not be older than 31 days when you apply.

Does the money need to be in cash only (no investments)?

Yes, the money must be in a cashable form. Investments, shares, and property are not accepted.

Do I have to convert foreign currency to GBP?

Yes, use the official OANDA exchange rate to show the amount in GBP.

What if the balance drops during the 28 days?

Your visa can be refused. The balance must not go below the required amount at any time.

What constitutes an “official financial sponsor”?

It includes the UK government, your home government, international scholarship bodies, or a university.