UK Student visa checklist: documents and money you need

Applying for a UK Student visa is mostly about preparation. Most problems are not about whether someone can study in the UK, but about documents that are incomplete, dated incorrectly or showing the wrong amount of money. This checklist sets out the main points to confirm before you apply. It is general information, not advice on your own circumstances.

1) Your offer and CAS

You need an unconditional offer from a licensed student sponsor. Your university or college will then issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), a reference number with the details of your course and fees. Check that your name, date of birth and passport number on the CAS match your passport exactly, and check the course fees and any fees already paid. You must apply for your visa within 6 months of receiving your CAS.

2) Core documents

Most applicants will need a valid passport or other travel document, their CAS reference number and proof that they have enough money. Depending on your circumstances, you may also need consent from your parents or legal guardian if you are under 18, a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate depending on the country you are applying from, an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate for certain postgraduate subjects, and evidence of your English language level if your sponsor asks for it.

3) The money you need

You must normally show money for two things. First, course fees: the first year of fees (up to 9 months) shown on your CAS, minus anything you have already paid. Second, living costs: a fixed monthly amount for up to 9 months, which depends on where you study.

• Applications made up to 29 November 2026: £1,529 per month in London, or £1,171 per month outside London

• Applications made from 30 November 2026: £1,570 per month in London, or £1,203 per month outside London

What matters is the date you apply, not the date your CAS was issued or the date your course starts. You do not usually need to show living costs if you have been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months on the date you apply.

4) The 28-day rule

This is where many applications go wrong. The full amount must be held for at least 28 consecutive days, and the balance must not fall below the required amount on any day of that period. The end of the 28-day period must be within 31 days of the date you apply. If your application date could move past 29 November 2026, it is sensible to plan with the higher figures.

5) Common mistakes to avoid

• Using last year's living-cost figures

• Bank statements that end too early or are more than 31 days old

• A balance that dips below the required amount for even one day

• Using the outside-London figure when the course is mainly in London

• Personal details on the CAS that do not match the passport

Want a second pair of eyes?

If you are preparing your own application, our document review and application checking service can help you spot problems before you submit. To start, complete our Free Initial Assessment.

This article provides general information only and is not immigration advice. UK immigration rules and amounts change, so please check GOV.UK for the latest position before you apply. Information checked on 30 October 2026. Sources: GOV.UK, Student visa: money you need; Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules HC 584 (3 September 2026).