19/08/2026
Here's a mistake we see often: an applicant shows one lump sum in their account, covering tuition and living expenses combined, and assumes that's sufficient proof of funds.
Many countries don't see it that way. Tuition money and living cost money are often expected to be proven separately, sometimes from different, clearly identified sources.
Why? Because embassies want to know you can pay your fees AND survive day to day — not just that you have "enough money" in one undifferentiated pile.
A single combined number can actually look less convincing than two clearly labeled, clearly sourced amounts: tuition already paid or provably available, and a separate living-cost fund (sometimes in a specific account type, like Germany's blocked account).
Know exactly what your destination country expects — combined or separate — before you apply.
Did you know these are sometimes assessed separately? Let us know below 👇
