Cost of Studying in the UK

In 2025, the UK remains a premier destination for Indian students, offering top-ranked universities, innovative programs, and strong post-study work options. With updated tuition costs and global recognition, institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London continue to attract thousands. 

Here’s what studying in the UK will cost this year:

Please note: Fees vary by program & currency exchange rate. Engineering, Medicine, and MBA courses typically cost more.

In 2025, UK education doesn’t have to come at a premium. Several reputable yet affordable UK universities offer globally recognised degrees at lower tuition costs, making them ideal for Indian students on a budget. Here are 10 such universities with solid rankings and competitive tuition fees for international students.

A few of them are as follows:

Please note: Fees vary by program & currency exchange rate. Engineering, Medicine, and MBA courses typically cost more.

In 2025, Indian students continue to pursue top UK degrees across high-demand fields like Business, Computer Science, and Engineering. With robust career prospects and globally recognised curricula, these courses offer strong ROI. Here’s a breakdown of the 10 most popular courses, along with updated tuition fees for undergrad and postgrad programs.

Please note: Fees vary by program & currency exchange rate. Engineering, Medicine, and MBA courses typically cost more.

Applying to UK universities can be a seamless process if you follow the right steps. This guide walks you through everything you need to do, from researching universities to preparing your application for a successful outcome.

1. Research Universities and Courses

• Identify Your Preferences: Consider the location, university rankings, course offerings, and post-graduation opportunities. Use resources like QS World University Rankings and university websites to compare institutions.
• Shortlist Programs: Look for programs that align with your career goals, whether it’s Business, Engineering, or Arts.

2. Check Entry Requirements

• Academic Requirements: Most UK universities require at least 60% in your 12th-grade marks for undergraduate courses. For postgraduate courses, a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 55-60% is typically needed.
• English Language Proficiency: You’ll need to take an English proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL. Most universities require an IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
• Other Requirements: Some programs, such as Medicine or Law, may have additional entry criteria like entrance exams or interviews.

3. Prepare Required Documents

• Undergraduate:
  • 12th-grade transcripts
  • English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Personal statement/Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of recommendation
• Postgraduate:
  • Undergraduate degree certificate and transcripts
  • English proficiency test scores
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of recommendation (LOR)
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

4. Apply Through UCAS (For Undergraduate Courses)

• Create an Account: UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the central application system for undergraduate courses in the UK.
• Fill in Your Application: Complete your personal details, academic history, and course preferences.
• Write Your Personal Statement: A well-crafted personal statement is essential for your application. Explain your motivations for studying the course, your background, and why you are suited for the program.
• Submit References: UCAS requires at least one academic reference.

5. Apply Directly to Universities (For Postgraduate Courses)

• Check University Websites: For postgraduate courses, you will generally need to apply directly to the universities via their application portals.
• Fill in the Application Form: Provide your personal details, educational background, and upload necessary documents (SOP, LOR, CV, etc.).
• Pay Application Fee: Most universities charge an application fee, ranging from £50 - £100 (INR 5,800 – INR 11,600).

6. Attend Interviews or Submit Additional Tests (If Required)

• Some competitive courses, especially in Medicine, Law, or Architecture, may require you to attend an interview or take an entrance test like the BMAT (for Medicine) or LNAT (for Law).
• Prepare for Interviews: If your course requires an interview, research common questions and practice discussing your personal statement, academic interests, and career goals.

7. Wait for Offers

• Offer Types: After submitting your application, you will receive one of the following:
  • Unconditional Offer: You meet all entry requirements.
  • Conditional Offer: You need to fulfil certain conditions (such as final exam results or English language test scores).
  • Rejection: If your application is unsuccessful.
• Decision Deadline: After receiving offers, you’ll typically have a few weeks to accept or decline.

8. Accept the Offer and Pay the Deposit

• Firm Acceptance: Once you have received offers from universities, you will need to choose your preferred university and formally accept the offer.
• Pay the Deposit: Some universities require an initial deposit of around £1,000 – £3,000 to secure your spot.

9. Apply for a Student Visa (Tier 4)

• Visa Requirements: Once you have an unconditional offer, you can apply for a UK student visa. To qualify, you must:
  • Have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university.
  • Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses.
• Documents Required: Passport, CAS letter, proof of funds, English proficiency test results, and biometric information.

10. Book Accommodation and Plan Travel

• University Accommodation: Apply for on-campus housing as soon as you accept your offer, as it fills up quickly.
• Private Accommodation: If you prefer living off-campus, research local rental properties.
• Flights: Book your flight in advance, keeping in mind the university's term start date.

11. Prepare for Arrival

• Health Insurance: Ensure you have the appropriate health coverage, typically through the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
• Pack Essentials: Research what to pack and familiarise yourself with UK weather, public transport, and culture.
• Orientation: Attend university orientation sessions to get acquainted with campus life.

In 2025, Indian students planning to study in the UK can access a wide range of scholarships that ease financial burdens while recognising academic excellence. From prestigious government awards to university-specific grants, here are the top scholarships available this year, complete with eligibility details and benefits for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Studying in the UK offers world-class education, but the costs can add up quickly. However, with some careful planning and smart budgeting, Indian students can manage their expenses effectively. Here are practical tips to help reduce financial pressure while studying in the UK:

1. Choose an Affordable University and Course

• Select Budget-Friendly Universities: As tuition fees vary, opt for universities that offer competitive courses at lower fees. Universities like Teesside University and the University of Chester offer quality education at affordable rates, with tuition fees ranging from £12,000 to £13,500 per year.
• Look for Courses with Scholarships: Many universities offer partial or full scholarships. Explore options like the GREAT Scholarship or Chevening Scholarships, which can significantly reduce tuition costs.

2. Plan Your Living Expenses

• Live Outside Expensive Cities: The cost of living in cities like London can be significantly higher. Consider studying in cities like Manchester or Glasgow, where accommodation and daily expenses are more affordable.
• Opt for University Accommodation: On-campus housing can be cheaper than renting privately, especially when factoring in utility bills and transport costs.

3. Apply for Scholarships and Grants

• Search for Scholarships: Numerous scholarships, including the Commonwealth Scholarship and Rhodes Scholarship, are available for Indian students. These can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and even travel costs. Don’t forget to check university-specific awards.
• Government-funded Scholarships: The UK government provides funding options like Chevening Scholarships that fully cover tuition and living costs for postgraduate students.

4. Work Part-Time During Studies

• Understand Visa Work Regulations: As a student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. This can help cover daily expenses and even save for future tuition instalments.
• Find Campus Jobs: Many universities offer on-campus job opportunities, including library assistants, event coordinators, or research assistants. These jobs tend to pay well and offer flexibility.

5. Cut Down on Food and Travel Costs

• Cook Your Own Meals: Dining out frequently can add up quickly. Instead, consider cooking at home. UK supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s offer affordable groceries. Meal prepping for the week can save both time and money.
• Use Student Travel Cards: Most cities offer student travel passes that offer discounted rates for buses, trains, and metros. Additionally, consider purchasing a Railcard for discounted travel across the UK.

6. Create a Detailed Budget

• Track Your Spending: Create a monthly budget, tracking all your expenses, including tuition, accommodation, food, and transportation. This will give you a clear idea of your spending habits and help you make adjustments where needed.
• Set Up a Separate Bank Account: Consider opening a local bank account for managing your finances. Many UK banks offer free student accounts with access to budgeting tools and no monthly fees.

7. Utilise Financial Services Offered by Universities

• Emergency Financial Aid: Many universities provide emergency funds or financial advice for students in need. Reach out to the student services office if you’re facing unexpected expenses.
• Financial Workshops: Participate in university workshops that offer guidance on financial planning, budgeting, and managing student loans.

8. Consider Buying Used Textbooks

• Rent or Buy Second-Hand Textbooks: Instead of purchasing new textbooks, check out online platforms like Amazon UK, eBay, or university groups where students sell or rent used books. This can save you hundreds of pounds every year.
• Digital Textbooks: Many courses now offer e-books or PDFs at a lower price compared to printed versions.

9. Take Advantage of Free Entertainment and Discounts

• Student Discounts: Make the most of student discount cards like TOTUM or Student Beans, which offer deals on everything from food and clothing to entertainment and travel.
• Explore Free Activities: Many museums, galleries, and parks offer free entry for students. Look out for free events and activities happening around the city, which are often posted on university noticeboards or local listings.

10. Consider Postgraduate Loan Options

• UK Student Loans for Indian Students: If you are pursuing a postgraduate degree, you may be eligible for a loan from the UK government. Be sure to research your eligibility for loans that cover tuition fees and living expenses, as these are repaid after graduation.