Proof of Funds for Student Visas: A Country-by-Country Guide
Proof of funds is evidence that a student can pay tuition plus living costs for their study period. Requirements vary by country — the UK needs a 28-day maintained balance, Canada a GIC, Australia evidence of full funds, and Germany a blocked account.
Proof of funds is the documentation a student visa applicant submits to show they can cover tuition and living expenses without working illegally. Insufficient or inconsistent funds is one of the most common — and most avoidable — reasons for refusal worldwide.
What counts as proof of funds?
- Bank statements showing a maintained balance over a required period.
- Fixed deposits, savings certificates, or a government-approved blocked account.
- Education loan sanction letters from recognized banks.
- Scholarship or sponsorship letters, and affidavits of support from sponsors.
Country-by-country requirements (2026)
| Country | What's required |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Tuition + living costs held for a continuous 28 days, statement ≤31 days old |
| United States | Bank statements / affidavit of support covering first year (shown at F-1 interview) |
| Canada | GIC of the required amount + first-year tuition proof |
| Australia | Evidence of funds for tuition, living, and travel (Genuine Student requirement) |
| Germany | Blocked account with roughly one year of living costs |
Common mistakes that cause refusals
- Funds deposited too recently (failing the "maintained balance" rule).
- Source of funds that can't be explained or documented.
- Amounts that don't match the tuition + living cost requirement.
- Inconsistencies between the funds and other application documents.
Proof of funds is one input into a student's overall readiness — see how to improve your students' visa success rate and the full student visa document checklist.
Frequently asked questions
What is proof of funds for a student visa?
It is documentation — bank statements, fixed deposits, a blocked account, a loan letter, or a sponsor affidavit — showing the applicant can pay tuition and living costs for their study period without unauthorized work.
How much money do I need to show for a student visa?
It varies by country and institution: roughly first-year tuition plus living costs. The UK requires a 28-day maintained balance, Canada a GIC, and Germany a blocked account with about a year of living costs. Always check the current official figure.
Why do visas get refused over funds?
Usually because funds were deposited too recently, the source cannot be explained, the amount is insufficient, or figures are inconsistent across documents.