UK Student Visa New Rules Affecting Indian Students In 2026

Changes in UK Student Visa Requirements in 2026: Quick Overview

UK government has introduced several changes in the eligibility requirements for international students to obtain a study permit. Here are the four major changes in UK study visa effective for Indian students as per the official announcement by the UK government:

• Increased financial requirements (Maintenance-money proof): Now, more cash is needed up front (affects visa approvals and bank planning) to obtain a student visa

• English tests tightened: Indian students need to demonstrate a stronger language proof likely from Jan 2026, and prepare for higher levels if planning studies in UK.

• UK Graduate Route shortened: The post-study work time is reduced for most of the degree programs in UK. Previously, it was 2 years, which is now 18 months, effective from January 1, 2027.

• Policy push to reduce net migration: Broader White Paper changes could affect fees, employer rules and long-term settlement options for international students in UK.

• High tuition: All universities in UK that comply with the ‘quality threshold’ as per UK government are to raise tuition fees for international students in line with inflation. This indicates high tuition fees every year.

Latest Update: UK Graduate Visa Shorter From January 1, 2027

UK Study Visa New Rules Affecting Indian Students

Here is with everything you need to know about what has changed, when, and how it hits Indian students:

Higher Maintenance Amount

• Higher monthly maintenance required for visa applications (new caps for London & outside)

• Changes introduced Nov 2025 for new applications.

• More money to show in the bank, which means higher upfront cost and possible loan/DEI planning.

Higher Level of English Proficiency

• Tougher language assessments and a higher required level (shift toward B2-like standards reported)

• From Jan 2026 (announced 2025)

• Need better preparation or certified tests that may close the loophole of lower-level proofs.

Reduced Graduate Route duration

• Shortened from 2 years to 18 months for bachelors/masters (PhD remains 3 years)

• 18 months for applications on or after 1 January 2027.

• Less time to find skilled jobs; faster pressure to switch to Skilled Worker visas.

University income levy & sector measures

• Proposals for levies/fee changes to fund domestic skills

• Announced/consulted through 2025 policy papers.

• Universities may pass costs to students; scholarship budgets could tighten.

Also Read: Indian Students Shift Away from the U.S.: Why the Move to UK

Impact of New Changes in UK Student Visa on Indian Students

Check the points below to understand the potential impact of the recent changes in the UK immigration system for international students, including Indians:

• Budget shock: Higher maintenance means your sponsor/loan or family must show more funds when you apply. Expect more scrutiny of bank statements.

• Test prep alarm: English certificates you’d planned on may no longer be enough, aim higher (study for stronger scores or alternate approved secure tests).

• Post-study scramble: 18 months of post-study time gives you less runway to job-hunt and switch to sponsor visas, plan recruitment, internships and networking early.

• University choices matter: some universities may react by raising fees or cutting places; choose institutions with strong employer links to improve your job prospects.

What To Do Now If Planning to Study in UK in 2026?

Here is what you should do if you are still planning your academic studies in UK for 2026:

• Verify the maintenance requirement for your course/university (London vs outside-London levels).

• Book a higher-level English test practice and test slot (expect tougher assessments from 2026).

• Build a job-hunt plan: internships, career fairs, LinkedIn, and an employer-target list before you graduate.

• Ask your chosen university about scholarship/fee changes and graduate-employer tie-ups, get it in writing.

Related Reads: Living expenses in UK

Conclusion

These rule changes for UK student visa are designed to tighten immigration and reduce net migration, which means Indian students need to consider aspects including reduced work permit duration, more tuition, higher language requirements, and many more. So, you should plan finances, upgrade your English, and lock in employer connections before you land in UK.