The UK remains one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian students, thanks to its globally recognised education system and cultural diversity. Home to some of the world’s finest universities, the UK has 15 institutions ranked among the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
However, pursuing education here comes with significant financial considerations. On average, tuition fees range from INR 13L to 40L (GBP 12K to GBP 38K) annually. Monthly living expenses typically fall between INR 96K to 1.5L (GBP 900 to GBP 1500).
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
A range of scholarships, such as the Chevening Scholarship and Commonwealth Shared Scholarships, are available to help with these costs. Additionally, UK graduates earn competitive salaries, with starting packages averaging INR 34L (GBP 32K) annually.
This comprehensive guide explores the cost of studying in the UK, helping you understand and plan your academic journey effectively. Read on to make informed decisions and turn your dream of studying in the UK into reality.
Key Highlights
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost of Tuition to Study in the UK | UG: INR 9L to INR 39L (GBP 9K to GBP 38K) PG: INR 13L to INR 31L (GBP 11K to GBP 30K) |
| Tuition Fees by University Type | Public Universities: INR 8L to 19L (GBP 8K to 18K) Private Universities: INR 5L to 38L (EUR 5K to 35k) |
| Cost of Living in the UK for Indian Students | Inside London: INR 1.34L (GBP 1.3K) Outside London: INR 1L (GBP 1K) |
Cost of Studying in the UK: Top Universities
The cost of studying in the UK is a critical factor for Indian students. With over 2.94 million students enrolled in 2023, average college fees in the UK vary widely by institution and program. Proper financial planning is essential to effectively navigating the cost of studying in the UK.
Top University Tuition Fees Overview
| University | QS Rankings 2025 | Average UG Tuition Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Imperial College London | 2 | INR 22L to 45L (GBP 21K to 41K) |
| University of Oxford | 3 | INR 37L to 65L ( GBP 35K to 60K) |
| University of Cambridge | 5 | INR 29L to 45L (GBP 27K to 41K) |
| UCL | 9 | INR 28L to 51L (GBP 26K to 47K) |
| University of Edinburgh | 27 | INR 30L to 65L (GBP 28K to 60K) |
| The University of Manchester | 34 | INR 22L to 46L (GBP 21K to 42K) |
| King’s College London | 40 | INR 15L to 30L (GBP 12K to 27K) |
| The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) | 50 | INR 25L to 32L (GBP 22K to 28K) |
| University of Bristol | 54 | INR 26L to 36L (GBP 23K to 31K) |
| University of Warwick | 69 | INR 31L to 37L (GBP 31K to 36K) |
Most Affordable Universities in the UK
The UK has several affordable universities for students seeking quality education without the hefty price tag. These institutions offer competitive tuition fees and excellent programs, making studying in the UK more manageable.
A few of them are as follows:
| University | Under Graduate Fees | Post Graduate Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Wrexham University | INR 14L (GBP 12K) | INR 14L to INR 18L (GBP 12K to 16K) |
| Leeds Trinity University | INR 19L (GBP 16K) | INR 22L (GBP 18K) |
| Queen Margaret University | INR 9L (GBP 7K) | INR 16L to 19L (GBP 15K to 17K) |
| University of Cumbria | INR 15L to 20L (GBP 13K to 16K) | INR 15L to 20L (GBP 13K to 16K) |
| Teesside University | INR 20.4L (GBP 17K) | INR 20.4L (GBP 17K) |
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
Program-wise Cost of Studying in the UK: Popular Programs
The UK college fees for Indian students depend on the university and program. The cost of studying in the UK is higher for prestigious institutions, particularly those offering business, medicine, and law courses. Additionally, fees may differ based on the university’s location, with institutions in cities.
Universities in London often charge higher rates than those in other parts of the UK. Researching specific programs and universities is essential to getting a clearer picture of costs tailored to your needs.
Here is an overview of UK college fees for Indian students.
| Program Type | Annual Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Programs | INR 9L to INR 39L (GBP 9K to GBP 38K) |
| Postgraduate Programs | INR 11L to INR 31L (GBP 11K to GBP 30K) |
| PhD Programs | INR 16L to INR 26L (GBP 16K to GBP 25K) |
Course-Wise Cost of Studying in the UK
The UK offers top business, engineering, and medicine courses, with an impressive student retention rate of 87%. These programs are designed to blend academic excellence with practical skills, ensuring students thrive in their careers. A few of them are listed below.
| Course | Undergraduate Fees | Postgraduate Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Business Management | INR 15L to 40L (GBP 14K to 37K) | INR 21L to 42L (GBP 21K to 42K) |
| Engineering and Technology | INR 21L to 36L (GBP 20K to 35K) | INR 20 L to 43L (GBP 20K to 45K) |
| Medicine | INR 23L to 60L (GBP 22K to 52K) | INR 22L to 44L (GBP 21K to 42K) |
| Law | INR 11L to 28L (GBP 11K to 27K) | INR 20L to 41L (GBP 20K to 40K) |
| Social Sciences | INR 20L to 37L (GBP 20K to 36K) | INR 9L to 30L (GBP 9K to 30K) |
Explore all countries
Cost of Living in UK for Indian Students
Are you wondering how much money is required to study in the UK? The cost of living depends on various factors, including your lifestyle, location, and priorities. London, being a major city, is costlier than other regions.
By the end of last year, the UK hosted 758,855 international students—a 12.4% increase from the previous year, showcasing its global appeal.
Estimated monthly living costs are mentioned below.
- Inside London: INR 1.34L (GBP 1,334)
- Outside London: INR 1L (GBP 1,023)
These amounts are required for up to 9 months and are part of the student visa application. The amount of money required to study in the UK is not defined, and the actual cost may vary depending on your lifestyle.
Monthly Expenses Overview
| Expense | London (INR & GBP) | Rest of UK (INR & GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Student Halls (Bills Included) | INR 87K (GBP 848) | INR 59K (GBP 664) |
| Private Room (Without Bills) | INR 78K (GBP 750) | INR 47K (GBP 554) |
| Household Bills (gas, electricity, water, broadband, TV licence) | INR 13K (GBP 130) | INR 10K (GBP 100) |
| Groceries | INR 16K (GBP 155) | INR 12K (GBP 116) |
| Socialising (dining out, cafés, bars) | INR 15K (GBP 150) | INR 8K (GBP 80) |
| Public Transport | INR 10K (GBP 103) | INR 5K (GBP 54) |
| Mobile Phone (SIM Only) | INR 2K (GBP 18) | INR 2K (GBP 18) |
| Gym Membership | INR 2K (GBP 20) | INR 1.5K (GBP 15) |
Additional Costs for International Students in the UK
When studying in the UK, it’s essential to account for additional costs beyond tuition and basic living expenses. These extra costs, such as application fees, visa charges, and health insurance, can significantly impact the overall cost of studying in the UK. Planning for these expenses ensures you are financially prepared for your academic journey.
Pre-Arrival Costs
Pre-arrival costs refer to expenses incurred before travelling to study abroad. These include visa application fees, English proficiency tests, health insurance, flight tickets, and initial deposits for tuition or accommodation. All these factors add to the cost of studying in the UK, so it’s necessary to plan wisely.
Pre-Arrival Costs Overview
| Expense | Cost (INR & GBP) |
|---|---|
| University Application Fees | INR 2K to 16K (GBP 20 to 150) |
| Visa Application Fee | INR 51K (GBP 490) |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | INR 49K (GBP 470)/year |
| Flight Charges | INR 67K (GBP 600) |
Post-Arrival Costs
After reaching the UK, post-arrival costs include airport transfers, initial accommodation, and essential item purchases. These are typically one-time costs essential for settling in comfortably.
- Initial Setup Costs: Starting a new life in the UK can be expensive. You’ll need to purchase items like bedding, kitchenware, and furniture, especially if you’re moving into private accommodation.
- Essentials: You’ll also need to cover costs for daily essentials. Additionally, household items like cleaning supplies and toiletries may add around INR 10K (100 GBP) to your initial expenses.
Set aside a budget to effectively manage these additional expenses and the cost of studying in the UK. The following section explores the various scholarships available for Indian students in the UK.
Major Scholarships for Indian Students in the UK
The cost of studying in the UK is high, but scholarships significantly ease the financial burden while rewarding academic and leadership excellence.
For the 2024-25 academic year, UK universities offered 26 postgraduate scholarships for Indian students, each worth at least INR 10L (GBP 10K) towards tuition fees for a one-year program.
Below are notable scholarships to support your education and reduce the cost of studying in the UK.
| Scholarship Name | Amount |
|---|---|
| Commonwealth Shared Scholarships | Fully Funded (Varies) |
| Chevening Scholarships | GBP 22K (INR 24L) annually |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarships | Fully Funded up to USD 100K (INR 84L) for up to 4 years. |
| GREAT Scholarships | GBP 10K (INR 11L) towards Tuition fees for 1-year programs |
| Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships | GBP 8K (INR 9L) towards Tuition fees annually |
Part-Time Work Opportunities for Students in the UK
International students with a Tier 4 visa can work part-time during term time (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during university breaks. However, you must always check your visa’s specific work conditions to ensure compliance.
Minimum Wage and Earnings
- National Minimum Wage (NMW): For students aged 18 to 20, the NMW is approximately INR 655 (GBP 6.56) per hour.
- National Insurance: If your weekly earnings exceed INR 17K (GBP 166), you must pay National Insurance.
- Income Tax: Applicable if your weekly earnings exceed INR 1L (GBP 1K).
Here is a quick overview table with top part-time opportunities for international students in the UK.
| Job Name | Pay per hour (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tutoring | INR 2.5K (GBP 25) |
| Data Entry Clerk | INR 1.5K (GBP 15) |
| Library Assistant | INR 1K to 1.5K (GBP 10 to 15) |
| Barista | INR 1K (GBP 10) |
| Theatre Usher | INR 1K (GBP 11) |
Tips to Manage Cost of Studying in the UK for Indian Students
Managing your expenses and the cost of studying in the UK is essential for Indian students aiming to stay within budget. Here are five practical budgeting tips for better managing the cost of studying in the UK for Indian students.
- Plan Your Monthly Budget: Set a realistic budget for rent, groceries, transportation, and utilities. Use apps to track your spending.
- Utilise Student Discounts: Use your student ID or sign up for services like TOTUM to take advantage of travel, food, and entertainment discounts.
- Cook at Home: Save money by cooking meals instead of eating out. Shopping at local markets can further cut down costs.
- Choose Affordable Accommodation: To reduce rental expenses, consider university housing or shared apartments. Look for options close to your campus to save on transport.
- Work Part-Time: Use your 20-hour-per-week work allowance during term time to earn and offset living expenses while adhering to tax and visa regulations.
Embarking on your study abroad journey can be overwhelming, but the proper guidance makes it manageable. Leap Scholar supports you every step of the way, offering help with university selection, application processes, SOP reviews, and financial planning.
Start your journey with expert guidance on scholarships, education loans, and visa processes. Book a free consultation with Leap Scholar today and simplify your path to studying abroad!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q. What is the UK’s average tuition fee for undergraduate programs?
Ans. The average annual tuition fee for undergraduate programs in the UK ranges from INR 9L to INR 39L (GBP 9K to GBP 38K). The cost of studying in the UK varies depending on the university, course, and location. Top universities or specialised courses like medicine and engineering tend to have higher fees. The cost of a master’s in the UK for Indian students also varies. Always check specific universities for accurate fee structures.
-
Q. What are the fees for Masters in the UK for Indian students?
Ans. The cost of a master’s in the UK for Indian students fees can vary depending on the university and program. On average, tuition fees for postgraduate courses range from INR 13L to INR 31L (GBP 11K to GBP 30K). For more specific details on the cost of a master’s in the UK for Indian students fees, it’s essential to research the universities and courses you’re interested in.
-
Q. How do tuition fees differ between public and private universities in the UK?
Ans. UK public universities generally charge INR 8L to 19L (GBP 8K to 18K) annually, while private universities charge between INR 5L to 36L (GBP 5K to 35K). Fees at prestigious public institutions like the Russell Group are higher, particularly for business and medical courses. The cost of a master’s in the UK for Indian students is also higher than the undergraduate fees.
-
Q. Are there differences in fees for international and domestic students at UK universities?
Ans. Private universities in the UK often do not distinguish between domestic and international student fees, meaning the cost is the same for everyone. However, public universities typically charge higher average college fees in the UK for international students than domestic students. These are the differences in the cost of studying in the UK for international and domestic students.
-
Q. What are the average tuition fees for undergraduate programs at top UK universities?
Ans. Undergraduate tuition fees at the University of Oxford range from INR 37L to INR 64L (GBP 35K to GBP 60K) annually. Cambridge fees are INR 29L to 43L (GBP 27K to GBP 41K). Universities like Bristol and Warwick have slightly lower fees, averaging INR 24L to INR 36L (GBP 23K to 34K). This is a considerable portion of the cost of studying in the UK.
-
Q. How much does it cost to live in London as a student?
Ans. Living in London as a student costs approximately INR 1.34L (GBP 1.3K) per month, covering essential expenses like housing, groceries, and transport. Accommodation in student halls averages INR 90K (GBP 848), and groceries add INR 16K (GBP 155) to your budget. Public transport can cost around INR 10K (GBP 103) monthly, but discounts like the Student Oyster Card help reduce the cost of studying in the UK.
-
Q. What are the living costs for students outside London in the UK?
Ans. Students outside London spend about INR 1L (GBP 1K) monthly. Housing in student halls costs INR 70K (GBP 664), while groceries average INR 12K (GBP 116). Public transport is more affordable, at around INR 6K (GBP 54) per month, making these areas less expensive than London for international students.
-
Q. What are the largest expenses for students in the UK?
Ans. Accommodation is the most considerable expense for students in the UK, with monthly costs varying from INR 70K to 90K (GBP 664 to 848), depending on location. Other significant expenses include groceries INR 12K to 16K (GBP 116 to 155) and public transport INR 5K to 10K (GBP 54 to 103). Lifestyle choices, like dining out and socialising, can also significantly affect budgets and the cost of studying in the UK.
-
Q. What are the pre-arrival costs for international students in the UK?
Ans. Before arriving in the UK, students must budget for application fees INR 2K to 16K (GBP 20 to 150), visa application fees INR 52K (GBP 490), and the Immigration Health Surcharge (INR 50K (GBP 470) per year. These costs vary depending on the course and university. Planning for these expenses early is crucial to avoid unexpected financial burdens.
-
Q. What are the post-arrival costs for international students in the UK?
Ans. Post-arrival expenses for international students in the UK include initial setup costs for items like bedding and kitchenware. Daily essentials such as cleaning supplies and toiletries may add around INR 10K (GBP 100). These costs are necessary for settling in but vary based on location and personal preferences. Proper budgeting for these will ensure a smooth transition to student life.
-
Q. What types of part-time jobs are available for students in the UK?
Ans. Students in the UK can work in various part-time roles, including retail jobs, hospitality positions (such as waiters or kitchen assistants), tutoring, campus jobs (like library assistant or research roles), and internships related to their studies. These jobs not only help cover living expenses but also provide valuable work experience, which can enhance a student’s resume and future career prospects.
Have Questions? Get Guidance to reach your Dream University
Connect with India's finest counsellors and biggest study abroad community.
Get Guidance