Studying in the United Kingdom is a dream for many international students because of its globally ranked universities, strong academic environment, and diverse culture. But before planning your education abroad, one of the most important questions is: How much does it cost to study in the United Kingdom? Understanding the complete cost structure-including tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and additional charges-helps you plan your finances more effectively.
Below is a clear breakdown of the overall cost to study in the UK for international students.
1. Tuition Fees for International Students
Tuition fees depend on the course, level of study, and university. Here’s a general breakdown:
Undergraduate Programs
- Average range: £10,000 – £25,000 per year
Courses like Humanities and Social Sciences are usually on the lower side, while Engineering or Computer Science may cost more.
Postgraduate Programs (Master’s)
- Average range: £12,000 – £30,000 per year
MBA and specialised master’s programs can go up to £35,000 – £45,000 at top universities.
Medicine, Dentistry & MBA
- Medicine/Dentistry: £30,000 – £55,000 per year
- MBA: £20,000 – £45,000, depending on the university
These are the most expensive programs in the UK.
Tip: Students applying for the UK September intake or January intake often get early-bird scholarships or fee discounts.
2. Living Expenses in the United Kingdom
Living costs depend on where you stay. London is significantly more expensive than other cities like Liverpool, Leicester, Coventry, or Newcastle.
Average Living Costs Per Month
- London: £1,200 – £1,600
- Other UK cities: £800 – £1,100
This includes accommodation, food, transport, bills, study materials, and daily expenses.
Annual Living Costs
- London: £15,000 – £20,000 per year
- Outside London: £10,000 – £14,000 per year
3. Accommodation Costs
International students can choose between university dorms or private housing.
On-Campus Accommodation
£450 – £800 per month
Includes basic furniture and sometimes utility bills.
Off-Campus/Private Housing
£500 – £900 per month
Cost varies depending on whether you share or live independently.
4. Additional Costs to Consider
Apart from tuition and living, there are some essential expenses:
Visa Fees
- UK Student Visa: £490
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year
Travel Costs
Flights to the UK may range between ₹40,000 – ₹80,000 (for Indian students).
Study Materials
Books, software, and supplies may cost:
£300 – £600 per year
Transportation
With a student discount, monthly transport costs average:
£40 – £90
Health Insurance
Included in the IHS fee, allowing students access to NHS services.
5. Total Estimated Cost to Study in the UK
Here's a combined average estimate:
Undergraduate Students
- Total yearly cost: £22,000 – £34,000
Postgraduate Students
- Total yearly cost: £25,000 – £40,000
Medical or MBA Students
- Total yearly cost: £35,000 – £65,000
These figures may vary depending on lifestyle, city, and course selection.