African students planning to study in the United Kingdom will need to show more money for living expenses from November 30, 2026, under new immigration rules announced by the British government.
Under the revised rules, students in London will need to show £1,570 for each month of their course, up from £1,529. Those outside London will need £1,203, up from £1,171.
Over nine months, the maximum requirement rises to £14,130 ($19,100) in London and £10,827 ($14,630) elsewhere — increases of £369 and £288 respectively.
Who Is Affected?
The rule applies to international students generally, so applicants from across Africa will be affected, including those from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Cameroon.
The impact is particularly significant because the UK remains a major overseas study destination for students from across the continent. In the year ending June 2026, the UK granted 26,060 Sponsored Study visas to Nigerian main applicants, representing 7% of the total and placing Nigeria third globally behind China and India.
The Broader Context
The increase comes as Britain continues to tighten its international student system, building on measures introduced since 2024 to curb what the government describes as abuse of the Student route.
Since January 2024, most international students on taught postgraduate courses have been barred from bringing dependants and face restrictions on switching to work visas before completing their studies. The government has also raised concerns about some international recruitment agents accused of misleading prospective students about study and work opportunities in the UK.
However, a 2024 Migration Advisory Committee review found no evidence of widespread abuse of the Graduate visa route, although it flagged concerns about some agents and sub-agents.
Other Costs
Beyond the higher maintenance threshold, applicants must also account for tuition fees, which are separate from the living-cost requirement and may need to be covered as part of the visa application.
The required funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, with the closing balance dated no more than 31 days before the visa application is submitted. Applicants must also pay a £558 Student visa fee and a £776 annual Immigration Health Surcharge.
The Bottom Line
The UK has raised the student visa funding requirement for international students, including those from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and other African countries. From November 30, 2026, students in London must show £14,130 ($19,100) for nine months, while those outside London need £10,827 ($14,630). The changes align with maintenance loans for domestic students and will be reviewed annually. Applicants must also pay visa fees and health surcharges, and must have funds in their account for 28 days before applying.
