Every student visa requires you to show you can pay for tuition and living costs. The amount and the format differ by country — and getting this wrong is one of the most common reasons for refusals.
USA (F-1)
Show liquid funds for at least the first year's cost listed on your I-20, plus a plan for later years. Accepted: savings, fixed deposits, education loan sanction letters, scholarships and sponsor income evidence.
UK (Student visa)
Show unpaid first-year tuition plus living costs of £1,483 per month in London or £1,136 per month elsewhere, for up to 9 months. Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days, or you can use an education loan letter. UK guide.
Canada (study permit)
Show first-year tuition plus about CAD 22,895 for living costs (single applicant) and travel costs. A GIC remains a common way to show living funds. Canada guide.
Australia (Subclass 500)
Show tuition, AUD 29,710 per year for living costs and travel — or meet the annual income alternative. Australia guide.
Germany
A blocked account with about €11,904 per year (2025 figure) is the standard proof. Germany guide.
Ireland
Show €10,000 per year of living costs in addition to tuition paid or available. Ireland guide.
Common mistakes
- Large unexplained deposits just before applying.
- Sponsor income that can't support the claimed funds.
- Funds in accounts or formats the country doesn't accept.
- Not meeting holding-period rules (for example, the UK's 28 days).
Need a funds plan? See financial assistance and education loans.