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If you are an international student planning to study or work in the UK, there are important updates you must know about the UK Student Visa maintenance requirements and the Graduate Route (PSW) visa (UK PSW Update). These changes affect how much funds you need to show and how long you can stay in the UK post-graduation.

This guide breaks everything down for 2025–2027, so you can plan ahead and avoid surprises.

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What’s the New UK Student Visa Maintenance Requirement and UK PSW Update?

Starting 11 November 2025, the UK Home Office is increasing the maintenance requirement for Student visa applicants. This means students must show they have enough funds to cover living costs while studying in the UK.

Updated Living Costs

Location	1 Month	9 Months
London	£1,529	£13,761
Outside London	£1,171	£10,539

Accommodation Offset

If you’ve already paid accommodation fees in advance, you can deduct these payments from your living cost requirement, up to a maximum of £1,529 per month.

This is important for budget planning, as it can reduce the amount of money you need to show in your visa application.

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Graduate Route (PSW) Visa Changes – Effective 1 January 2027

The UK Home Office has also updated the Graduate Route visa, also known as the Post-Study Work (PSW) visa.

Key Change

✅ The duration of the Graduate Route visa will reduce from 2 years to 18 months for applications made on or after 1 January 2027.

Exceptions

• Students who apply before 1 January 2027 will still receive the full 2-year PSW visa.
• Those completing a PhD or doctoral qualification will continue to receive 3 years of post-study work permission.

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FAQs About the New PSW Rule

Q1: How many months of PSW will be granted in the UK?

• From 1 January 2027, it will be 18 months for most students. PhD graduates still get 36 months.

Q2: Does the new rule affect current students?

• No. Anyone applying before 1 January 2027 is unaffected.

Q3: What are the living cost requirements for UK Student Visa 2025?

• London: £1,529/month, £13,761 for 9 months
• Outside London: £1,171/month, £10,539 for 9 months

Q4: Can I reduce my living cost requirement if I’ve already paid rent?

• Yes. Accommodation fees paid in advance can reduce your required funds, up to £1,529.

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How These Changes Affect International Students

• Students applying for a UK Student Visa after 11 November 2025 must meet higher financial proof requirements.
• Students planning to stay in the UK after graduation should consider applying for the Graduate Route before 1 January 2027 to secure the full 2-year post-study work period.
• PhD students are not affected by the Graduate Route reduction.

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Tips to Meet the Updated Requirements

1. Check Your Accommodation Payments: Prepaid rent can reduce the funds you need to show.
2. Budget for Higher Living Costs: Especially if studying in London, make sure you meet the £1,529/month requirement.
3. Plan Graduate Route Applications Early: Apply before the new 18-month limit if possible.
4. Keep Documentation Ready: Bank statements, accommodation receipts, and financial guarantees are essential for smooth visa approval.

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Conclusion

The UK Student Visa maintenance increase and the Graduate Route reduction are crucial updates for students planning to study or work in the UK. Staying informed and planning your finances and visa applications carefully will ensure a smooth transition and maximum benefit from the PSW opportunities.

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Read more: https://www.gov.uk/graduate-visa