Cost of studying in the UK: tuition fees, living expenses and scholarships
Planning to study in the UK? Get a complete breakdown of tuition fees, monthly living costs, scholarships, and loan options for international students in 2025. Start budgeting smartly today.
Studying in the United Kingdom has long been a dream for many international students. Its rich history, globally recognised universities, and vibrant student culture make it an attractive destination. However, understanding the costs involved is crucial for effective financial planning. This guide covers the essential expenses-including tuition fees, living costs, and scholarships help ease the financial burden.
Tuition fees: what to expect
Tuition fees are a major part of the overall cost of studying in the UK and vary based on your course and institution. As a general guide, international students can expect to pay:
Undergraduate courses: £10,000 to £38,000 per year
Postgraduate courses: £11,000 to £40,000 per year
MBA programmes: £30,000 to £60,000 per year
Courses in medicine and related fields usually cost more, often ranging between £35,000 and £50,000 per year. It’s important to check with individual universities for exact tuition fees, as they can vary significantly.
Living expenses: monthly budget breakdown
Aside from tuition, you’ll need to budget for living costs. Here’s an estimate of typical monthly expenses:
Expense | Estimated monthly cost |
|---|---|
Accommodation | £500 – £1,200 |
Food and groceries | £150 – £250 |
Transportation | £50 – £100 |
Utility bills | £40 – £70 |
Internet and mobile | £20 – £40 |
Personal expenses | £100 – £150 |
On average, students may spend between £800 and £1,500 per month, depending on their lifestyle and location. Living in London is generally more expensive than in cities like Manchester, Birmingham or Leeds.
Scholarships to ease the burden
Scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of studying in the UK. Some well-known options include:
Chevening Scholarships – Fully funded, covering tuition and living expenses.
Commonwealth Scholarships – For students from Commonwealth nations.
GREAT Scholarships – Offered by the British Council for eligible countries.
University-specific scholarships – Many UK universities provide their own funding for international students.
Applying early and ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria will improve your chances of success.
Education loans for international students
If scholarships don’t cover all your expenses, international student loans can help. Prodigy Finance is a widely used provider, offering loans without requiring collateral with the flexibility to choose a co-signer or go solo. Check our online eligibility checker to see if you qualify for a loan with us.
Other options include:
Government-backed loans (available to students from certain countries)
Private lenders
Online loan calculators to estimate future costs
Financing your education in the UK
Studying in the UK is a significant investment, but options like international student loans and Prodigy Finance make it accessible. These loans can cover tuition fees and living expenses.
To support students navigating the financial side of studying abroad, Prodigy Finance offers a Loan Confirmation Letter (LCL)—an official document that confirms your loan approval, even before the funds are disbursed.
Increasingly, UK universities accept the LCL as valid proof of funding. In many cases, this allows them to:
Waive tuition deposits
Issue your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) based solely on the LCL
This can significantly speed up the visa process and reduce financial pressure, enabling you to focus on preparing for your studies—not scrambling to secure funds.
Take the first step towards your UK master’s – Check your eligibility and get your LCL now.
Hidden costs to keep in mind
Beyond the obvious expenses, there are other costs you’ll need to factor into your budget:
Student visa application: £363
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £470 per year
Books and study materials: £50 – £100 per term
Society memberships and social activities: £20 – £50 per month
Being prepared for these can help you avoid unexpected financial stress.
How to reduce your expenses
Here are a few ways to keep your costs in check while studying in the UK:
Part-time work: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Student discounts: Many shops, restaurants and travel providers offer discounts for students.
Shared accommodation: Renting with others can reduce your housing costs.
Transport passes: Invest in student travel cards to save on fares.
Final thoughts
Studying in the UK is a rewarding investment, but one that requires careful financial planning. By researching scholarships, exploring financial aid options and managing your day-to-day expenses wisely, you can make the experience both achievable and enriching.
Ready to take the next step towards your UK education? Start planning today.
