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UK Student Route Update: What’s Changing for Student Visa and Graduate Route Applicants
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
A Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules was published on 14 October 2025, introducing two major updates for international students in the UK.
2025 UK Graduate Route Visa Changes
From 11 November 2025, maintenance funds under the UK Student Route will increase.
From 1 January 2027, the Graduate Route visa duration will shorten for some degree holders.
These updates, detailed by the Home Office and confirmed by UKCISA, align with the Immigration White Paper (May 2025) and reflect ongoing adjustments in post-study migration policy.
Overview: UK Student Visa and Graduate Route Changes
Both updates affect new applications only.
Students applying before the effective dates will remain under current rules.
Understanding these changes early helps international students and universities plan finances, visa timing, and post-study goals more effectively.
Higher Financial Requirements for Student Visa Applicants (Effective 11 November 2025)
From November 2025, students applying under the UK Student Route must show higher proof of maintenance funds.
Updated Monthly Maintenance Rates
| Study Location | Previous Amount | New Amount (from 11 Nov 2025) | Duration Cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | £1,334/month | £1,529/month | Up to 9 months |
| Outside London | £1,023/month | £1,171/month | Up to 9 months |
Other Key Points
- Applies only to applications made on or after 11 November 2025.
- The maximum accommodation offset increases to £1,529.
- Funds must be maintained for 28 consecutive days before application.
- Reflects rising UK student visa financial requirements 2025, especially London student maintenance costs.
For complete details, refer to the UKCISA Student Route eligibility section.
Graduate Route Updates from January 2027
From 1 January 2027, changes will apply to post-study visa duration under the Graduate Route.
Updated Duration Based on Qualification
| UK Qualification | Current Duration | New Duration (from 1 Jan 2027) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s or Master’s | 2 years | 18 months |
| PhD / Doctorate | 3 years | Unchanged |
What This Means
- Changes apply only to applications submitted on or after 1 January 2027.
- Students graduating before this date can still apply for the full two-year Graduate Route.
- PhD holders remain unaffected.
- Reflects forecasts from the Immigration White Paper May 2025 impact analysis.
These adjustments aim to balance flexibility for international students in the UK with evolving post-study work visa migration goals.
Impact for International Students and Institutions
For students:
- Plan ahead for higher living-cost evidence under the Student Route.
- If you graduate before January 2027, apply early to keep your two-year Graduate Route.
For universities:
- Update visa and finance guidance for future intakes.
- Communicate clear timelines and eligibility for new cohorts.
And For advisers:
- Emphasize differences between Student Route 2025 and Graduate Route 2027 changes.
- Help students adjust budgeting and career plans accordingly.
These updates reinforce the UK’s commitment to maintaining a fair and transparent immigration system for international students.
Official Sources & Further Reading
For full details and authoritative references: