UK Student Visa 2026: Updated Financial and TB Test Requirements and Pre-Submission Checklist
2026 UK Student Visa Financial Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their course fees and living costs. The required amount is the first-year tuition as stated on the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) plus a maintenance component. For courses in London, the maintenance requirement is £1,334 per month for up to 9 months; outside London, it is £1,023 per month for up to 9 months. The funds must be held in a bank account for a consecutive 28-day period, and the closing balance must be within 31 days of the visa application date.
Funds can be held by the applicant, a parent, or a legal guardian. If relying on a parent’s or guardian’s funds, a letter confirming the relationship and consent to use the money is required, along with official financial documents. Acceptable financial evidence includes bank statements, building society passbooks, or a letter from the bank or building society. Electronic statements are only accepted if stamped by the bank or accompanied by a supporting letter.
Tuberculosis Testing Requirement
Applicants from countries where tuberculosis is common must provide a valid tuberculosis test certificate with their visa application. The test must be taken at an approved clinic, as listed on the official government website. The certificate is valid for six months from the test date and must be valid at the time of the visa application. This requirement applies to those applying to enter the UK for more than six months; applicants from non-listed countries or those applying for six months or less are exempt.
Pre-Submission Document Checklist
Before submitting the online visa application, ensure the following documents are ready:
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): The CAS reference number from the licensed sponsor institution.
- Valid passport or travel document: Current passport with at least one blank page for the visa vignette.
- Financial evidence: Documents showing the required funds have been held for 28 consecutive days and meet the closing balance timeline.
- Tuberculosis test certificate: If applicable, from an approved clinic, valid at the time of application.
- Parental or guardian consent: If using their funds, a letter confirming relationship and permission, plus their financial documents.
- Academic qualifications: Original certificates or transcripts as listed on the CAS, if requested.
- English language evidence: Proof of meeting the English language requirement, such as a Secure English Language Test certificate, unless exempt.
- ATAS certificate: If the course requires Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance.
- Translation of documents: Any document not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a fully certified translation.
Review all documents for accuracy and completeness before attending the biometric appointment. Digital copies may be uploaded or presented at the appointment depending on the application center’s process.