Dreaming of studying in the UK? From world-class universities to a vibrant multicultural lifestyle, the UK remains a top destination for international students. But before you pack your bags, there’s one big question you need to answer: How much will it cost?
Studying in the UK isn’t just about tuition fees. There are also living expenses, visa fees, health insurance, accommodation, and more. Whether you’re planning an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, this guide will give you a realistic breakdown of what to expect, including tips on budgeting, funding options, and how to make your money go further as a student.
📌 Read on to get the facts and plan smart for your UK study journey.
Now let’s look at how much it will cost you to study in the United Kingdom.
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How Much Does It Cost to Study in the UK?
#1. Tuition & Course Fees
The cost of UK tuition fees varies depending on your level of study and the location of your studies. For instance, degrees in the arts and social sciences are typically the least expensive, whereas those in laboratories and clinical settings are typically the most expensive.
Note that the cost of UK courses varies according to your level of study and the location of your studies.
Undergraduate:
The cost of tuition for international undergraduates ranges from £11,400 to £38,000.
Undergraduate degree programs typically run three years in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and four years in Scotland.
Postgraduate:
The cost of tuition for postgraduate studies abroad ranges from £9,000 to £30,000.
In the UK, a lot of postgraduate degree programs can be finished in a single year of full-time study. There are financial and professional advantages to this. The costs of a one-year master’s degree are often lower. Compared to a conventional two-year master’s degree, it provides the opportunity for quicker entry or re-entry into the workforce.
Since tuition costs differ depending on the course and the institution, we advise you to look up specific information on the website of the college or university you are applying to.
💷 Tuition Fees & Cost of Living
| Level | Tuition Range (per year) | Living Costs (per month) |
| Undergrad | £11,400 – £38,000 | £900 – £1,300 |
| Postgraduate | £9,000 – £30,000 | £1,000 – £1,500 |
#2. Cost of Living.
The UK government website states that you should budget:
- £1,334 a month in London for a maximum of nine months, or £12,006 overall;
- £1,023 a month outside of London for a maximum of nine months (£9,207 total).
#3. The amount of money needed to obtain a student visa
It could be necessary for you to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to pay for your living expenses for the duration of your study.
You will need additional funds for each member of your family if you intend to bring them to the UK.
You can provide official records such as bank letters or statements that demonstrate that you have had the necessary funds for 28 days in a row without going over the limit. Additionally, the document must have been issued no more than 31 days before the day on which you want to apply for a visa.
#4. Costs of Accommodation.
The cost of your accommodation will probably be your biggest ongoing expense. International students can choose from a variety of housing alternatives in the UK:
| Types of accomodation | Features | Pros | Cons | Average Weekly Cost |
| University-Managed Halls of Residence | On-campus or university-affiliated housing often includes utilities and meal options. | Convenient, budget-friendly, social environment | Limited availability, may require early application | £120 – £250/week |
| Private Student Halls | Professionally managed buildings exclusively for students, often modern with amenities. | High convenience, modern facilities, located near campuses | Often more expensive than university halls | £180 – £300/week |
| Shared Houses/Flats or Solo Renting | Renting a room or flat with other students or independently off-campus. | More independence, variety in location, and size | Higher rent, utility bills separate, more responsibilities | £100 – £300+/week |
Even while international students are given preference when it comes to housing, there is no assurance that you will find accommodations after you arrive in the country.
Therefore, you should make your housing arrangements in advance to prevent having to postpone your studies.
The residence halls at many universities are first-come, first-served. You have a better chance of finding housing on campus and taking advantage of more economical options if you apply early.
#5. Travel costs
Traveling around the UK is a popular study abroad activity for international students. Flights, local transit, and excursions with visas are examples of travel expenses. Additionally, you might require travel insurance.
For Domestic travel
The place you select to study in and the amount of sightseeing you decide to do might have a significant impact on your monthly travel expenses. Fortunately, you may typically take advantage of student discounts.
In bigger cities like London, these discounts may be common knowledge and easily accessible, while in smaller towns, they may only be available through your university, so make sure to check the specifics on the university website.
For International travel
You can get better bargains by looking into flight alternatives, student discounts, and making reservations in advance.
For possible airfare savings, think about buying season tickets or student travel cards.
#6. Healthcare surcharge
International students must pay for the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). You can use the National Health Service (NHS) when you’re in the UK thanks to the IHS.
You’ll have to pay:
- £776 per year for students, their dependents, and those on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa
- £776 per year for visa and immigration applicants who are under the age of 18 at the time of application
- £1,035 per year for all other visa and immigration applications
The surcharge amount is subject to change and depends on the duration of your visa. More information about it is available on the UK government website.