The 28-Day Rule: How to Show Money for a UK Student Visa Without Getting Refused
Most student visa refusals are about money, not grades. Learn exactly how the 28-day rule works, which accounts count, and how to present statements so caseworkers say yes.
Ask any visa adviser what causes refusals and they will say the same thing: financial evidence. The rules are precise, and caseworkers apply them literally. Here is how to get it right first time.
The rule in one sentence
For every one of the 28 days before the closing date of your statement, your balance must never drop below the total you need. One day below the line — even by £1 — and the application fails.
Whose money counts?
- Your own account — current, savings or deposit accounts you can withdraw from.
- A parent or legal guardian's account — with a birth certificate proving the relationship and a short letter confirming you can use the money.
- An official financial sponsor — government, employer or international scholarship, with a sponsorship letter.
- A student loan — with the loan letter dated within six months.
Money in a business account, a friend's account, shares, crypto or property does not count.
Presenting your statements
Caseworkers want bank statements that show the account holder's name, the account number, the bank's name and logo, the date, and every transaction across the period. Online printouts are accepted if the bank stamps them or provides them on letter-headed paper. Some banks in the Gulf and South Asia issue a balance certificate — this is fine as an extra, but it does not replace the full statement.
If £25,000 arrives the day before the 28-day window begins, the caseworker may ask where it came from. Add a one-paragraph letter explaining the source (property sale, family gift, salary bonus) with a supporting document. It is not required, but it removes the doubt.
Currency conversion
The Home Office converts foreign currency using OANDA on the date you apply. Exchange rates move — leave a buffer of at least 5% above the requirement so a weak week for your currency does not sink the application.
Frequently asked
Can I combine two accounts? Yes, as long as each account individually meets the 28-day rule for the portion it covers.
Does a fixed deposit count? Only if you can withdraw it immediately — provide a bank letter saying so.
I already paid accommodation to the university. Up to £1,334 can be deducted from living costs if it is shown on the CAS.
Financial evidence gets you the visa; a calm first week gets you through the semester. Our Essentials package covers airport pickup and your bank appointment in Oxford, so the money you proved is in a UK account within days. Not sure what you need? Talk to us for 15 minutes, free.
Related: What is a CAS letter? · Opening a UK bank account
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