- The UK boasts a prestigious higher education system, attracting international students with its world-renowned universities and a variety of affordable living options
- Students opting to pursue their higher education in the United Kingdom must match their budget and the total cost of living and study in the city abroad before making the great move
- There are various financial aid options available for international students, including scholarships, student loans, and part-time work opportunities
The UK has been one of the most popular destinations amongst international students. Home to some of the most prestigious universities, the UK attracts thousands of study-abroad aspirants each year, being second only to the US in terms of numbers. As of 2023, 11% of all international students chose to study in the UK, ahead of comparable English-speaking countries Canada (10%) and Australia (6%).
For an international student studying in an expensive sovereign state like the UK, living costs are a significant chunk of expenses. Average living costs on campus can come up to £9,207 per year for international students without dependents. If you are also evaluating your prospects for studying in the UK, then we are here to help you.
Average Cost Of Living In The UK
The UK Government requires international students to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees and living expenses before entering the country. This includes a significant amount for living costs, ensuring that students have a stable financial foundation for their studies in the UK. How much money is to be shown in financial proof while applying for a student visa depends upon your choice of program and university location.
To determine which is the best-suited location for you in terms of living costs, let’s have a look at the deciding factors for the living costs as an international student in the UK.
| Factors | Costs |
|---|---|
| Factors On-campus living | Costs Average on-campus living costs are £7,986. Living costs in the universities in London are relatively higher and can go upto £848 per month. |
| Factors Off-campus living | Costs The off-campus living costs may vary from £480-£560, monthly. This cost does not include food and bills. |
| Factors Food and Groceries | Costs Food and Groceries are a significant part of living expenses, whether you live on or off-campus. The monthly average for food and groceries is estimated to be £155 in London. |
| Factors Utilities (electricity, internet, etc) | Costs Utilitarian bills are also a fixed cost that is unavoidable. On average, for someone living in the UK, the utilities will cost £40-£80 if you live off-campus. Utilities are usually included in on-campus living. London is quite expensive in these terms. The bills can almost double to £140 per month. |
| Factors Books and Materials | Costs As a student, books and study materials become an essential cost. Though the costs of these materials vary upon the course. It can fall somewhere around £140 for a month |
| Factors Health Insurance | Costs Wherever you move as an international student to the UK, health insurance is a requirement. You must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year. |
| Factors Personal expenses (clothing, entertainment, etc.) | Costs Other essential yet miscellaneous expenses are personal expenses. Depending upon your lifestyle, they can range from £90- £140. |
Cost of Living for Major Student Destinations in the UK
Let’s break down how much does it cost to live in the following most popular cities among international students. However, the net cost of living can vary significantly on the university you choose as well along with all the other factors mentioned in earlier sections.
1. London: Known for its prestigious universities, diverse culture, and numerous job opportunities, London is a popular choice for international students. It is home to several world-renowned institutions such as Imperial College London, University College London (UCL), and King's College London among others. As the most expensive city in the UK, London can range from £1,300 to £1,800 per month. Accommodation costs are the biggest factor, with student halls or flats outside the city centre offering some relief.
2. Edinburgh: It is a more affordable option compared to London. Edinburgh offers a student-friendly atmosphere with living costs between £900 and £1,200 per month. It is home to the University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh Napier University, and Queen Margaret University. The city is known for its blend of Scottish heritage and focus on innovation at its schools.
3. Manchester: Manchester is a vibrant city that attracts international students with its diverse culture, lively nightlife, and historic landmarks. It is home to institutions such as The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. The city is more affordable than both London and Edinburgh. A single person's estimated monthly costs are £852 without rent.
4. Glasgow: Its affordable cost of living and world-class universities, such as the University of Glasgow and Glasgow Caledonian University, make Glasgow a popular study-abroad destination. Living costs can range from £800 to £1,000 per month, with a wider variety of accommodation options including PBSAs.
5. Birmingham: England's second-largest city, Birmingham offers much more affordable living for international students compared to other big cities of the UK. It is home to several prestigious universities like the University of Birmingham and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Please note that these are just estimated ranges, and your actual living costs may vary depending on your individual circumstances.
Top 5 UK Universities - Average Tuition Fees in 2024
Let’s discuss the cost of studying at the top 5 universities of the UK that any of us would’ve loved to be a part of.
- Cambridge University is one of the most desired universities in the world. It is equally expensive but there are multiple scholarship programmes available. The fee structure can fluctuate depending on the course that you select. The average monthly living costs here are £1,555. And the annual tuition fees can range from an estimate of £30,000 to £42,000.
- Oxford is also one of the oldest and most sought-after universities in the world. Their campus is in Wellington Square, Oxford, GB, Oxford United Kingdom. The living cost here is estimated to be £1,955 for 2024-25.
- Next up, we have the Imperial College London. The college is based on South Kensington Road, London, Kensington and Chelsea, SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom. It has multiple branches of study, and the tuition fee varies depending on the area of interest.
- University College London is next in the ranking. The accommodation costs here depend upon the house you choose and the course you choose for tuition fees.
- Moving on, we have the University of Edinburgh, which, as the name suggests, is located in Edinburgh. They have both campus-managed living and privately aided accommodation. The costs may vary depending on your preferences.
Most Affordable Universities in the UK
The UK also has some affordable universities with easy access to accommodations and a comparatively lower cost of living that others. Let’s discuss your affordable options:
- The University of Bolton is one of the most affordable ones, and their average living costs are £12,450.
- Next comes Plymouth Marjon University, whose average living costs are £12,000. This university excels in its master’s programmes in English and Teaching.
- With many scholarships available, Leeds Beckett University offers affordable higher education to students. It has an average living cost of £9,207. This university promises a peaceful campus life and multiple postgraduate programmes.
- With tuition fees of £16,800 - £20,050 per year for international students, Coventry university is ranked among the top 10 cities in England for affordability as per the QS Ranking Indicators 2024
- International students who have an interest in Arts, Cultures, Education and Law should consider the University of Hull. The university currently houses students from over 100 countries.
Tips for Managing Living Costs In The UK for International Students
Living in the UK as an international student can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to be mindful of your finances. Here are some tips to help you stretch your budget:
1. Part-Time Work Opportunities
Student visas in the UK typically allow part-time work (usually around 20 hours per week) during term time and full-time work during holidays. On-campus jobs at libraries, cafes, or administrative offices offer flexibility and can help you network within the university. Off-campus options include retail, hospitality, or tutoring positions. Remember to check your visa restrictions and apply for a National Insurance Number (NINo) before starting work. Typical student wages can range from £8 to £12 per hour, providing valuable income to supplement your living costs.
2. Financial Aid and Scholarships
Many UK universities, like University of Cambridge, Oxford University, Kingston University, etc, offer financial aid or scholarships specifically for international students. Check out your university's website or contact their financial aid office to inquire about available options. Additionally, scholarships from your home country or external organisations might be available based on academic merit or specific fields of study.
3. Student Loans
For students who need additional funding, Prodigy Finance offers student loans specifically designed for international students. These loans can be a good option to cover tuition fees or living expenses. However, it's crucial to research loan terms carefully, understand repayment conditions, and only borrow what you can realistically afford to pay back after graduation.
4. Budgeting Tips
To make the most of your money, you should create a realistic budget that outlines your expenses. You can even save more by renting a flat or house with flatmates can significantly reduce your housing costs. Utilise public transportation options like buses and trains. Consider getting a 16-25 Railcard for discounted train travel if you’re aged 16-25. Cycling is another cost-effective way to get around, especially in smaller cities. There are numerous student discounts available in the UK, both in-person and online. Get a TOTUM Student+ card or UNiDAYS membership to unlock discounts at various stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Conclusion
Living and studying in the UK can really help boost your career. By carefully considering the total cost of living and planning for your financial needs in advance before you go there, you can create a realistic budget. Remember, there are ways to manage your expenses, from finding part-time work to exploring scholarships and student loans. Companies like Prodigy Finance can help turn your dream of studying in the UK into a reality with their education loan offerings. This allows you to make the most of your time in the UK, gain a sought-after qualification, and position yourself for a successful career launch, both in the UK and internationally.
FAQs
Which is more economical? On-campus or Off-campus accommodation?
Generally, on-campus accommodation can be more expensive than shared flats or private studios off-campus. However, on-campus dorms often include utilities and meal plans, already included in the budget. While living off-campus, you would have to take care of your bills and commute.
How much funds do I need to show in Financial proof for applying student visa for the UK?
The amount of funds you need for a UK student visa depends on the location you are travelling to. You'll need to show enough for living costs (around £1,023 per month outside London and £1,334 for London) for up to 9 months, plus your first year's tuition fees. Students should check the official UKVI website for the exact requirements.
How do I get a scholarship to manage the expenses of studying in the UK?
Unfortunately, there aren't universities offering completely free tuition for international students. However, scholarships and financial aid can significantly reduce costs.
Are there any additional costs I should consider?
On top of living expenses and tuition, factor in travel costs like flights (including baggage fees) to and from the UK. Visa application fees also vary depending on your nationality and study duration.
Prodigy Finance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Prodigy Finance loans are offered to eligible borrowers and these loans are governed by English law.
