It can be difficult to find the best low-cost universities in the United Kingdom. Your tuition is automatically two or three times more than that of domestic students if you are an international student. In general, studying overseas is expensive because living expenses are added to tuition and fees. But don’t let that deter you from going to one of the top study-abroad locations in the world to further your education. This post from AfterSchoolAfrica explains how to locate the most affordable UK universities for international students!
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What attracts International Students to study in the UK?
With more than 1.5 million international students studying here each year, the UK is the second-most popular destination. This is hardly surprising given its long history of immigration, particularly in the field of education, its standing as a stable nation, and its extraordinarily high academic standards.
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1. Top-Ranking Universities:
There are several highly regarded universities in the UK. The nation is among the greatest locations in Europe (and the world) to obtain a degree that will enable you to compete in the modern global economy because it provides top-notch higher education along with first-rate facilities and research opportunities.
2. Diverse Population:
With over 80,000 students from abroad enrolling each year, the UK is the second-most popular destination for international students. There are students from all over the world among the varied student body.
3. A Wonderful Student Life:
You will always remember your time spent studying in the UK. International students at UK universities can take advantage of specialized support services ranging from career counseling to housing, transportation, and medical care.
4. Fantastic Employment Opportunities:
International students have an important chance to gain work experience in one of the major industrial and economic centers of the world, provided they have the necessary authorizations. Part-time work, internships, and/or work placements relevant to your degree could be examples of this.
5. Scholarships and Bursaries:
For international students who require financial aid to cover their living expenses or tuition costs while studying in the UK, numerous universities also provide scholarships and bursaries. Learn how to apply for scholarships from UK universities to reduce the cost of studying internationally.
Cheapest Cities in the UK for International Students
If you are an international student, you might be concerned about the cost of your study abroad experience. Choosing the city you wish to study in is a good place to start your search. The cost of living in the area is frequently reflected in tuition fees. Put another way, tuition costs are generally higher in cities where living expenses are higher.
We examined UK cities where housing for international students is likely to be found at reasonable prices. What was the outcome? a list of five cities with affordable rent and additional benefits. These are!
| City | Kingston upon Hull | Nottingham | Derby | Leeds | Manchester |
| Cost of living (GBP) | 593.81 | 676.69 | 688.66 | 716.25 | 730.02 |
| Cost of accommodation(GBP) | 452.99 | 765.71 | 516.67 | 841.67 | 923.33 |
| Cost of food(GBP) | 200.2 | 366.35 | 353.42 | 317.21 | 370.66 |
| Cost of utilities(GBP) | 184.84 | 138.90 | 245.97 | 252.40 | 230.74 |
| Cost of transport(GBP) | 69.56 | 82.75 | 78.61 | 128.44 | 135.33 |
The Top 10 Cheapest Universities in the UK for International Students
The UK is a clear choice for international students due to its diverse population and stellar reputation for education. The following ten UK universities are the least expensive for international students:
| University | Average Tuition fees (GBP) |
| University of Bolton | 11,250/year |
| University of Cumbria | 12,800/year |
| University of Chester | 12,950/year |
| Teesside University | 13,000/year |
| University of Bedfordshire | 13,000/year |
| University of West London | 13,250/year |
| University of Wolverhampton | 13,950/year |
| Leeds Beckett University | 14,000/year |
| University of Greenwich | 15,100/year |
| University of Stirling | 16,775/year |
*Note: The average tuition fees determine the list of universities. It may vary based on your course, level, and study area.
1. University of Bolton
In case you’re searching for an affordable university in the United Kingdom, the University of Bolton is an excellent option. It is among the best-value and most reasonably priced universities in the United Kingdom.
This university charges £12,500 in tuition fees per year for out-of-country students, with a maximum charge of £14,450. Prior to your first term, you will also need to pay an additional £1,000 deposit, which you can apply to your accommodation expenses if needed.
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £14,250; Postgraduate: £11,250
Overall cost of living: £7,000/year
Campus accommodation: £3,300/year
English score required:
- IELTS : Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.5
- TOEFL : Undergraduate: 83; Postgraduate: 88
- PTE: Undergraduate: 51; Postgraduate: 59
Popular Programs: Engineering, Architecture, and Nursing
Scholarships for international students:
- Stoller Scholarship
- Excellence Scholarship
- International Excellence Scholarships
2. University of Cumbria
The University of Cumbria is known for its top-notch support and instruction. For international students who wish to study here but may not have been able to pay for their degree program in full owing to financial limitations or other reasons, it also provides a large number of scholarships and grants.
There are many opportunities for those who apply, as the university receives over 10 million pounds in funding annually from the government!
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £12,350; Postgraduate: £11,990
Overall cost of living: £2,600/year
Campus accommodation: £4,095/year
English score required:
- IELTS : Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.5
- TOEFL : Undergraduate: 72; Postgraduate: 80
- PTE: Undergraduate: 62; Postgraduate: 65
Popular Programs: Education, Law, and Psychology
3. University of Chester
More than 12,000 students from more than 60 countries are enrolled in the university to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees. The majority of these students are from Europe, but there are also a sizable number of full- or part-time students from Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
It should be noted that the annual tuition fees for non-EU citizens and international students vary from £12,000 to £14,000.
Additionally, the university has four residence halls that can house up to 500 students apiece, depending on the kind of room (shared bathrooms or single rooms).
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £12,750; Postgraduate: £13,380
Overall cost of living: £9,135/year
Campus accommodation: £2,599/year
English score required:
- IELTS: Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.5
- TOEFL: Undergraduate: 79; Postgraduate: 88
- PTE: Undergraduate: 61; Postgraduate: 65
Popular Programs: Engineering, IT, Management
Scholarships for international students:
- International Alumni Scholarship
- Chevening Scholarship
- DIKTI Scholarships
- Goa Education Trust Scholarship
- Snowdon Masters Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarship
4. Teesside University
Teesside University’s wide range of study programs, combined with its excellent teaching and research, guarantee its students an exceptional education. International students find the university even more alluring due to its reasonably priced tuition.
The annual cost of an undergraduate full-time course ranges from £11,825 to £13,000. Postgraduate tuition fee schedules differ greatly from one another. A part-time distance learning research degree costs £5,875, while a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program costs £17,000.
The cost of living can change based on your living arrangements. In order to save money while attending college or university, some international students opt to live with locals.
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £11,000–13,000; Postgraduate: £11,380–17,000
Overall cost of living: £9,207/year
Campus accommodation: £3,380/year
English score required:
- IELTS: Undergraduate: 5.5-7; Postgraduate: 6-7
- PTE: Undergraduate: 51-66; Postgraduate: 51-66
Popular Programs: Business & Management Studies, Engineering, and Computer Science
Scholarships for international students:
- The Global Excellence Scholarship
- Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship
- International Development Scholarship
- Deans’ International Scholarships
- Teesside University Advance Alumni Scholarship
- Family Loyalty Discount
- British Council Great Scholarships
- British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarship
- The UK government’s international awards scheme
- Office for Students MSc Scholarships
5. University of Bedfordshire
Located in England, the University of Bedfordshire is a public research university. The university’s eight faculties—Arts, Business & Law, Engineering & Physical Sciences, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences (Chemistry/Physics)—offer undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate degrees.
With more than 20,000 students from more than 120 countries, the university is popular worldwide. In addition to being a respected and well-liked university, it also charges cheap tuition for students from abroad.
International undergraduate students are required to pay between GBP 9,000 and 12,500 for a BA or BSc degree program, GBP 9,900 and 12,600 for an MA or MSc degree program, and GBP 11,250 for an MBA degree program, per their tuition policy.
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £12,660; Postgraduate: £12,450
Overall cost of living: £9,150/year
Campus accommodation: £7,780/year
English score required:
- IELTS : Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.0
- TOEFL : Undergraduate: 72; Postgraduate: 72
- PTE: Undergraduate: 51; Postgraduate: 51
Popular Programs: Business Management, English Language and Literature, and Communication
Scholarships for international students:
- Undergraduate Scholarships and Discounts
- Postgraduate Taught (excluding MBA)
- MBA Scholarships and Discounts
- Postgraduate Research Scholarships and Discounts
- Scholarships and Discounts for Engineering Students
- Alumni Loyalty Scholarship
6. University of West London
This university is highly regarded for its research facilities, brilliant faculty, and top-notch instruction. With annual tuition fees of no more than £13,000 for an undergraduate degree, it boasts some of the lowest in the UK.
For international students, the University of West London offers one of the most affordable MBA programs in London. As a result, it is among the most affordable universities in the UK for international students and the best option for those looking to study at a low cost without compromising on resources or quality.Â
According to QS Best Student Cities 2023, its location enables students to access an affordable education in the greatest student city in the world!
There are numerous scholarships offered by the university that can help with some of the costs. Additional funding options include grants and bursaries of up to £5,000 per year (or up to £10k over four years). When submitting an application to be a foreign student, you must complete your application through UCAS.
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £12,500; Postgraduate: £13,800
The overall cost of living: £7,800/year
Campus accommodation: £8,580/year
English score required:
- IELTS : Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.5
- TOEFL : Undergraduate: 78; Postgraduate: 88
- PTE Undergraduate: 54; Postgraduate: 58
Popular Programs: Engineering, Hospitality Management, and Nursing
- Scholarships for international students:
- International Ambassador Scholarships
- AMO Scholarship
- LGCHT Friends and Alumni Scholarship
- The ‘Spike’ Stent Scholarship
- The Anne Naysmith Scholarship
- The Cathie Wallace Scholarship
- The Ian Carter Scholarship
- The Geoffrey Harrison Foundation Scholarship in Hospitality Management
7. University of Wolverhampton
Located in Wolverhampton, West Midlands, England, the University of Wolverhampton is a public university. It is ranked among the top 100 UK universities for academic excellence by The Guardian.
About 23,000 students attend the university, drawn by its cutting-edge technologies, extensive faculty background, and programs that are tailored to the needs of employers.
There are over 2,500 international students at the University of Wolverhampton, representing more than 140 countries. The cost of tuition varies according to the program. The annual average tuition cost will not be more than GBP 14,000.00.
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £12,500; Postgraduate: £13,800
Overall cost of living: £7,800/year
Campus accommodation: £8,580/year
English score required:
- IELTS : Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.5
- TOEFL: Undergraduate: 78; Postgraduate: 88
- PTE: Undergraduate: 54; Postgraduate: 58
Popular Programs: Engineering, Business, Management & Marketing, and Accounting & Finance
Scholarships for international students:
- Lord Paul Excellence Scholarships
- GREAT Scholarships
- The Commonwealth Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships
- International Academy Scholarship
- Alumni Scholarship
8. University of Greenwich
One of the top universities in the UK, the University of Greenwich, is exceptional at reducing inequality, promoting responsible consumption, fostering a land-based lifestyle, collaborating on projects, and taking action against climate change.
The university enrolls over 14,200 students, of whom 38% are not citizens of the European Union. International students can choose from a wide variety of courses offered by the institution. Depending on the program, annual tuition fees range from £13,000 to £15,000. Additionally, there are numerous scholarships offered to international students.
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £14,480; Postgraduate: £14,830
Overall cost of living: £11,385/year
Campus accommodation: £5,849/year
English score required:
- IELTS : Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.5
- TOEFL : Undergraduate: 83; Postgraduate: 88
Popular Programs: Engineering, Business and Management, and Economics
Scholarships for international students:
- Sanctuary Scholarship
- Greenwich Bursary
- William Hills Scholarships
- Visionary Scholarships
- Ann Packer
- Sports Scholarships
9. Leeds Beckett University
This university describes itself as an institution with specific goals for education. Its goal is to equip students with exceptional knowledge and abilities to help them in their future endeavors.
The university maintains a number of partnerships with local businesses and organizations to ensure that its graduates have the greatest possible access to employment opportunities.
There are currently about 28,000 students at the university, representing about 100 different countries. One of the UK colleges that takes in students with gaps in their education is this one. You can still study here as an international student even if you have a few years of study experience gap.
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £ 12,350; Postgraduate: £11,990
Overall cost of living: £2,600/year
Campus accommodation: £4,095/year
English score required:
- IELTS : Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.5
- TOEFL : Undergraduate: 72; Postgraduate: 80
- PTE: Undergraduate: 62; Postgraduate: 65
Popular Programs: Engineering, Hospitality & Tourism, and Information Technology (IT)
Scholarships for international students:
- LBU: International Student Scholarship
- Undergraduate Scholarship
- Postgraduate Scholarship
10. University of Stirling
In addition to having a stellar reputation, the University of Stirling is among the most reasonably priced in the UK. With about 6,000 students, it’s a small university that grants degrees in a range of subjects. QS Top Universities awarded Stirling five stars for inclusiveness, services, employability, and education.
This university charges £12,140 for classroom-based courses and £14,460 for laboratory-based programs for undergraduate students. This excludes supplemental expenses such as textbooks and lodging. The cost of tuition for postgraduate studies can vary from £13,650 to £18,970. This university ought to be on your list of options if you’re searching for one that offers affordable tuition.
Average Tuition Fee Per Year: Undergraduate: £13,900; Postgraduate: £15,510
The overall cost of living: £8,213/year
Campus accommodation: £7,740/year
English score required:
- IELTS: Undergraduate: 6.0; Postgraduate: 6.5
- TOEFL: Undergraduate: 78; Postgraduate: 80
- PTE: Undergraduate: 54; Postgraduate: 60
Popular Programs: Business, Management and Marketing, Computer Science and Information Systems, and Economics
Scholarships for international students:
- Postgraduate India Scholarship
- International Undergraduate scholarship
- INTO Sterling Progression Scholarships
- Postgraduate International Excellence Scholarship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where are the cheapest universities in the UK located?
There are affordable universities in the UK for international students all over the place, including London, which is ranked #1 among student cities by QS Top Universities. Universities in other cities, such as Edinburgh and York, are also more affordable.
Is there any way to get a better deal on my tuition fees?
While there are numerous strategies to reduce your tuition, they all take more time and work! You can apply for bursaries and scholarships provided by universities to save money while still getting a top-notch education. Additionally, you ought to look for a location with less expensive living costs that is close to your university. You might wind up saving a sizable sum of money to help pay for your tuition.
What difficulties do international students experience in the UK?
Although studying in the UK is fantastic, there are certain difficulties that may arise for students from other countries. The primary issue that foreign students encounter is the cultural disparity between their country of origin and the United Kingdom.
Certain cultures find it challenging to adjust to new norms or practices that may be at odds with their own, particularly when those practices or changes are abrupt or drastic, like relocating to a completely new country like the UK!
We suggest that you participate in extracurricular and community activities. This is a great way to meet people from the area and discover their traditions. You can get advice on how to adjust by speaking with other international students at the school who have experienced similar circumstances!
Cultural differences will become less startling and part of the allure of studying abroad with time and patience. It’s possible that you’ll begin to adopt some of your local friends’ quirks!
Start With Us
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MPower Finance and Prodigy Finance are some of the best student loan providers for international students. They also do not require a cosigner or collateral before an application. Reach out to us today, and let’s help you get started.
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