Studying in the UK is one of the most rewarding investments for international students, but it requires careful financial planning. The overall budget depends on your level of study, choice of university, location, and lifestyle. Understanding the typical tuition fees and living costs will help you prepare effectively and avoid financial stress once you arrive.
Tuition Fees by Level of Study
Undergraduate
International undergraduate fees usually range from £11,000 to £25,000 per year, depending on the subject. Arts and humanities are on the lower end, while courses like Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science can cost £30,000 to £45,000 per year.
Postgraduate Taught (Master’s)
Postgraduate fees typically range from £12,000 to £28,000 per year. Business, MBA, and specialised STEM programmes may be more expensive, with MBA courses averaging £25,000 to £45,000 at top universities. Many master’s programmes in the UK last only one year, making them more cost-effective compared to countries with two-year formats.
PhD and Research Degrees
PhD tuition for international students usually ranges from £15,000 to £25,000 per year. Fees can be higher in fields like Engineering, Medicine, or Lab-based Sciences, where facilities and supervision are more resource-intensive. Many PhD students apply for scholarships, research council funding, or university-funded studentships to reduce costs.
Living Costs in the UK
Living expenses vary by city. London and the southeast are the most expensive, while northern England, Wales, Scotland, and smaller towns are more affordable.
London: £1,300–£1,800 per month (including rent, food, transport, and personal costs)
Other cities: £900–£1,400 per month on average
Small towns like Bangor or Leicester: sometimes as low as £800–£1,000 per month
Students should budget for:
Accommodation (rent, utilities)
Food and groceries
Public transport or commuting
Books and academic supplies
Phone and internet
Personal and leisure costs
Additional Costs to Consider
Visa fee: around £500
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year, payable upfront for the entire course duration
Flight tickets: average £400–£800 depending on origin
Deposit for accommodation: usually 1–2 months’ rent
Course materials and field trips: vary by subject
Insurance: recommended for travel and valuables
Average Annual Budgets by Study Level
Undergraduate: £22,000–£35,000 (tuition + living)
Postgraduate: £20,000–£32,000 (tuition + living, usually for one year)
PhD: £18,000–£28,000 per year, depending on funding and lifestyle
How to Reduce Costs
Apply early for scholarships and bursaries offered by universities or external organisations
Consider universities in more affordable UK cities such as Sheffield, Leicester, or Newcastle
Choose university-managed accommodation for predictable rent and bills included
Use student discounts on travel, entertainment, and shopping
Work part-time within visa limits (usually up to 20 hours per week during term)
Final Thoughts
Studying in the UK requires a well-planned budget that takes into account tuition, living costs, and additional expenses. While London can be expensive, many smaller cities offer high-quality education with much lower living costs. By understanding the financial requirements and exploring scholarships and part-time work opportunities, international students can make studying in the UK both affordable and rewarding.
If you are planning to study in the UK and need help with budgeting, university applications, or scholarship advice, click here to book a free consultation with Universitio.
