The UK remains a top destination for Indian students seeking world-class education. However, the high costs associated with studying abroad can be daunting. Thankfully, many UK universities offer affordable tuition fees while maintaining excellent academic standards, making it possible for Indian students to achieve their dreams without financial strain.
In 2025, the approximate tuition fee for international students at the cheapest universities in UK will range from INR 7,00,000 to INR 12,00,000 per year, depending on the course and institution.
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Renowned for their cost-effective programs, universities like Teesside University, University of Sunderland, University of Bedfordshire, and Leeds Beckett University top the list of cheapest options.
Additionally, these universities often offer financial aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities to help students manage their living expenses, which average around INR 6,00,000 to INR 8,00,000 annually.
Popular engineering, business, IT, and health sciences courses are readily available at these institutions, offering students affordable and high returns on investment.
This guide will explore the most affordable universities in the UK for Indian students in 2025, breaking down costs, programs, and application requirements to help you make an informed decision for your academic future.
Cheap Universities in UK for Indian Students 2025
Indian students seeking cost-effective education options in the UK can consider universities that balance affordability with academic excellence. These institutions are popular for offering competitive tuition fees and diverse programs across various disciplines.
Below is a table detailing the top 10 cheapest universities in UK for international students and the programs they offer:
| Cheapest Universities in UK for Indian Students | Average Tuition Fees (Master’s) | Average Tuition Fees (Bachelor’s) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Sunderland | INR 12,00,000 | INR 14,00,000 |
| Teesside University | INR 15,00,000 | INR 8,50,000 |
| University of Bedfordshire | INR 8,80,000 | INR 7,00,000 |
| University of Chester | INR 8,70,000 | INR 6,90,000 |
| Leeds Beckett University | INR 9,20,000 | INR 7,60,000 |
| University of West London | INR 9,50,000 | INR 7,80,000 |
| Staffordshire University | INR 8,60,000 | INR 7,40,000 |
| University of Bolton | INR 8,75,000 | INR 7,20,000 |
| London Metropolitan University | INR 9,00,000 | INR 7,70,000 |
| University of Cumbria | INR 8,40,000 | INR 7,10,000 |
Popular Programs at the Low-Fee Universities in UK 2025
The cheapest universities in UK offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs tailored to meet the needs of international students, including Indian students. These programs focus on providing industry-relevant education while maintaining affordability.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular courses offered at the cheapest universities in UK for Indian students:
| Undergraduate Programs | Offered By | Average Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration (BA/BS) | University of Sunderland University of Chester | INR 7,50,000 – INR 8,00,000 |
| Computer Science (BSc) | Teesside University Staffordshire University | INR 7,20,000 – INR 7,50,000 |
| Engineering (BEng) | Leeds Beckett University University of Cumbria | INR 7,60,000 – INR 8,50,000 |
| Health Sciences (BSc) | University of Bedfordshire University of Bolton | INR 7,00,000 – INR 7,80,000 |
| Creative Arts and Design (BA) | University of West London London Metropolitan University | INR 7,70,000 – INR 8,40,000 |
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Cheapest Universities in UK: Admission Requirements
Admission to the cheapest universities in UK is relatively accessible, making these institutions attractive to international students.
Gaining admission to affordable UK universities is relatively straightforward, with a few key requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Minimum 60-70% in relevant subjects for UG and PG programs. |
| English Proficiency | IELTS: 6.0 for UG, 6.5-7.0 for PG (or TOEFL/PTE equivalent). |
| Application Documents | Academic transcripts, SOP, LORs, CV (for PG). |
| Visa Requirements | Confirmation of Acceptance (CAS), proof of funds, passport. |
| Other Criteria | Some universities accept Medium of Instruction (MOI) in place of IELTS. |
IELTS Requirements in the Cheapest Universities in UK
| Program Level | Minimum IELTS Band |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Programs | 6.0 – 6.5 |
| Master’s Programs | 6.5 – 7.0 |
| Foundation or Pathway | 5.5 – 6.0 |
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Do Universities Accept Admission Without IELTS?
Yes, certain universities offer admission without IELTS if the student meets alternative criteria such as:
- Medium of Instruction Letter: Proof from previous academic institutions that the student’s medium of instruction was English.
- Pre-Sessional English Courses: Offered by many universities to help students meet language proficiency requirements.
- Alternative Tests: Such as Duolingo or university-specific English assessments.
Here are some universities allowing IELTS waivers:
| University | Alternative Admission Criteria |
|---|---|
| University of Greenwich | Medium of Instruction Letter |
| Birmingham City University | Pre-Sessional English Course |
| University of Bolton | Internal English Language Test |
| University of Central Lancashire | School-issued English Proficiency Certificate |
Are These Universities Best for Indian Students?
Several Indian students who have graduated from these universities have excelled globally. Here are a few examples:
- Raghuram Rajan: Former RBI Governor, studied at the University of Cambridge.
- Indra Nooyi: Former CEO of PepsiCo, alumni of the University of West London.
- Amartya Sen: Nobel Laureate in Economics, associated with the University of Cambridge.
Why are the Affordable Universities in UK a Great Fit for You?
Affordable universities in the UK offer quality education, cultural diversity, and career opportunities.
Benefits include:
- World-Class Education: Recognised globally for academic excellence.
- Cultural Exposure: Experience a multicultural environment with students from all over the world.
- Career Prospects: High employability with industry-focused programs and internships.
- Affordability: Scholarships and work-study options to reduce costs.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities: Access to the Graduate Route visa for work in the UK after graduation.
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- Personalised university shortlisting based on your budget and goals.
- Guidance on application and visa processes.
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Contact us today to start your journey to an affordable, high-quality education in the UK!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Which university has the lowest fees in the UK 2025?
Ans. The University of Sunderland and Teesside University have some of the lowest fees in the UK. Undergraduate tuition fees start at INR 7,20,000, and master’s programs begin at INR 8,50,000. These universities are popular for offering affordable education without compromising quality, making them an excellent choice for international students seeking budget-friendly options.
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Q. Can I study in the UK under 10 lakhs 2025?
Ans. Studying in the UK under INR 10 lakhs annually is possible. Universities like Teesside University and the University of Chester offer affordable tuition fees. Additionally, part-time work opportunities and scholarships can help reduce overall expenses, making it a feasible option for budget-conscious students.
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Q. Is the UK costly for Indian students?
Ans. The UK is perceived as costly due to high tuition and living expenses. However, affordable universities, scholarships, and student-friendly work opportunities can significantly reduce the financial burden. Cities outside London also have lower living costs, making the UK manageable for Indian students.
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Q. Can I study abroad with 15 lakhs?
Ans. With a budget of INR 15 lakhs, you can pursue undergraduate or master’s programs at affordable UK universities like Teesside University. Combining this budget with scholarships, affordable living options, and part-time work can help cover tuition and living expenses effectively.
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Q. How much does a 1-year Master’s cost in the UK?
Ans. A 1-year master’s degree in the UK typically costs INR 9,00,000 to INR 14,00,000. Tuition fees vary depending on the university and program. The short duration of UK master’s programs often makes them more affordable than other countries with more prolonged courses.
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Q. Which university is the cheapest for a master’s in the UK 2025?
Ans. Teesside University and Staffordshire University are among the cheapest for master’s programs. Tuition fees start at INR 8,50,000 annually. These universities are known for offering quality education and specialised programs at lower costs for international students.
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Q. How can I afford a master’s degree in the UK?
Ans. A master’s in the UK is achievable through scholarships, part-time jobs, and university instalment payment plans. Research funding opportunities like Chevening or Commonwealth Scholarships and explore affordable universities to reduce financial strain while pursuing higher education.
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Q. How do I get a fully funded Master’s in the UK 2025?
Ans. Fully funded master’s programs are available through scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth, or Great Scholarships. These awards cover tuition, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs. Early applications and strong academic or professional records improve your chances of securing such funding.
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Q. What is the average living cost for an Indian student in the UK?
Ans. The average annual cost of living for Indian students ranges between INR 8,00,000 and INR 10,00,000. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses. Living outside major cities like London can significantly reduce these costs.
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Q. Which is the cheapest city for Indian students in the UK?
Ans. Cities like Sheffield, Birmingham, and Leicester are among the cheapest for Indian students. These cities offer affordable accommodation, lower living expenses, and access to budget-friendly amenities compared to costlier cities like London.
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Q. How much of the budget should Indian students keep to study in the UK?
Ans. Indian students should budget INR 18,00,000 to INR 25,00,000 annually, including tuition and living costs. Scholarships, affordable housing, and part-time job opportunities during study can reduce this estimate.
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Q. Do affordable universities in the UK offer master’s programs?
Ans. Affordable universities like the University of Sunderland and Teesside University offer master’s programs with tuition fees under INR 10,00,000 annually. These universities maintain quality education while ensuring budget-friendly options for international students.
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