How much deposit is required for UK universities before visa for a Master's?

There is no fixed national deposit amount set by the UK government; instead, each university sets its own policy, and most Master's deposits fall between £1,000 and £5,000, rising to £5,000 to £10,000 for competitive MBA or specialised programs. This deposit is not an extra charge; it is deducted directly from your total first-year tuition once you enrol.

Typical UK Master's Deposit Ranges

What the Deposit Actually Affects

• You must pay the deposit and accept your unconditional offer before the university issues your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies), which your visa application needs
• Any deposit already paid reduces the remaining tuition balance you must show funds for under the visa's financial maintenance rules
• Deposits are usually non-refundable if you simply change your mind, but most universities refund them if your visa is officially refused, provided you supply the refusal documentation
• If you hold a full government scholarship or an approved sponsor, ask your university about a deposit waiver using an official financial guarantee letter

My Advice

Pay your deposit as soon as your offer turns unconditional so your CAS is issued with enough runway before your visa appointment, and keep the payment receipt since it directly reduces the tuition figure you need to show as funds. If you have a scholarship or sponsor, ask us to help you draft the guarantee letter your university needs to consider a deposit waiver.