UK Student and Graduate Visa Rules – Previous vs New (2025–2027 Detailed Comparison)

 

The UK government is rolling out significant changes to its student and graduate visa rules between 2025 and 2027. Understanding the UK student and graduate visa rules comparison is essential for anyone planning to study in the UK or extend their stay after graduation. These updates will affect everything from the financial proof required for your visa application to the duration of your post-study work options. In this post, we’ll take a detailed look at the changes, comparing the old and new rules, and how they might impact your plans.

Maintenance Fund Requirements – Increased Financial Proof

One of the most immediate changes is the increase in the amount of financial proof that students need to show when applying for a UK Student Visa. Starting 11 November 2025, the maintenance fund requirements will be higher. Here's how the updated rules will work:

For students in London: You’ll need to show that you have enough funds to cover up to 9 months of living expenses and tuition, with slightly higher amounts than what was previously required.

For students outside London: The fund requirements will also increase, but the amounts will still be lower than for those studying in London.

Why this matters:

You’ll need to prove that you can support yourself financially for the first 9 months of your stay.

The funds must be in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before you submit your visa application.

If you apply before 11 November 2025, you can still follow the previous financial proof rules.

These changes might seem small, but they could affect your visa application process, especially if you are relying on loans or need to provide bank statements. Start planning your finances early to avoid any unexpected delays.

Source: UKCISA

English Language Requirements – Higher Standards from 2026

In 2026, the UK will introduce higher English language requirements for international students. This will affect both students applying for a Student Visa and those transitioning to the Graduate Route. Here's what you can expect:

The minimum CEFR level will still be B2 for most degree programs, but the required band scores may increase, particularly for more competitive universities or visa categories.

Accepted tests like IELTS Academic and PTE Academic will remain, but you will likely need higher band scores to meet the new requirements.

For those switching to the Skilled Worker Visa, the English language expectations may be even higher, in line with professional job standards.

What you should do:

Aim for a score higher than the minimum required. This will provide you with more flexibility in case the exact requirements change.

If you’re applying for courses starting in September 2026 or later, start preparing for your language test well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

These new standards are part of the UK’s broader strategy to ensure that international graduates are equipped with strong language skills to succeed in the UK job market.

Graduate Route Duration – Shorter Stay for UG & PG from January 2027

The most significant change for many students is the reduction in the Graduate Route duration. Starting in January 2027, students with a Bachelor's or Master's degree will only be allowed to stay and work in the UK for 18 months instead of the previous 2 years.

PhD graduates: The current 3-year stay remains unchanged.

Bachelor’s and Master’s graduates: The post-study work period will be cut down to 18 months.

Why this matters:

With less time to gain work experience or transition to another visa, it’s crucial to start your job search early. Ideally, you should begin looking for job opportunities during your final semester.

Universities may begin offering career development support earlier in your academic program to help you adjust to these changes.

If you graduate before 1 January 2027, you will still be eligible for the full 2-year Graduate Route. However, if you graduate after this date, the new 18-month rule will apply.

Dependants Policy – Still Restricted

The rules around bringing dependants (family members) with you have been relatively unchanged since 2024. Here’s how it works under the new rules:

Taught Master’s students: You still won’t be able to bring dependants unless you are enrolled in a research-based program.

PhD or research students: Dependants remain eligible to accompany them under the current rules.

Undergraduate students: Dependants are not allowed to accompany them.

Although there has been a lot of discussion about the dependant policy, there are no further changes expected between 2025 and 2027. If you are an undergraduate or Master’s student, you will not be able to bring your family members with you.

Source: GOV.UK – Student Visa Dependants

Institutional Compliance & Impact

Along with the changes affecting students, universities and educational institutions will also face stricter rules. These updates will have a direct impact on international students, especially when it comes to maintaining your visa status. Key areas include:

Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Universities will need to update their procedures to align with the new financial proof requirements and timelines.

Attendance Monitoring: There will be more stringent checks on your attendance and academic progress. Staying on top of your studies will be more important than ever to ensure compliance with your visa conditions.

Sponsorship Duties: Universities will face increased accountability in ensuring that students follow the visa rules. This means that if you are not compliant, your university could be held responsible.

Expect more oversight during your studies. Attendance checks will be more frequent, and universities will be less flexible about absences or other violations of visa terms.

Quick FAQs About UK Student and Graduate Visa Rules

When do the new maintenance fund rules start?

The new rules will apply from 11 November 2025. Any applications submitted before this date will follow the old financial proof requirements.

How will the shorter Graduate Route stay affect me if I graduate in 2027?

If you graduate after January 2027, you’ll only be eligible for 18 months of post-study work. Start your job search as soon as possible to make the most of that time.

Will IELTS or PTE scores suddenly increase in 2026?

No. The changes to English language requirements will be announced well in advance, so you will have plenty of time to prepare and aim for higher scores.

Are students who graduate before 2027 affected by the new Graduate Route duration?

No. If you complete your studies before January 2027, you will still be eligible for the full 2-year post-study work period.

Will the dependant rules change in the coming years?

As of now, no new restrictions have been announced. Dependants are still only allowed for research and PhD students.

What if I don’t meet the new language requirements?

If you don’t meet the required English language scores, your visa application could be refused. Be sure to prepare well in advance to meet the higher language standards.

Conclusion

The upcoming changes to UK student and graduate visa rules are significant, and it’s important to stay informed so you can plan accordingly. Whether you’re applying for a Student Visa in 2025 or the Graduate Route in 2027, understanding the updated rules will help you navigate the process more smoothly. Starting early and staying up to date with the latest developments will ensure that you are well-prepared for your time in the UK.