Top 12 Cheapest Universities in the UK in 2025 [Fees, Courses, Scholarships & More]

The UK universities are known for their academic and research excellence in science, economics, social sciences, and other fields. The universities offer unique undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses besides traditional subjects. Many students from across the world aspire to study in the UK and build their future careers on a strong academic foundation. In this blog, we have discussed some of the cheapest universities in the UK. The guide will help you make well-informed decisions when choosing a university that aligns with your academic interests and fits within your budget.

List of Cheapest Universities in the UK for International Students

Foreign students often pay higher tuition fees compared to UK citizens and applicants from the European Union. A student in the UK might have to pay £15,000 for an undergraduate course. On the other hand, a student in India will pay a tuition fee of £24,000 for the same course. 

The tuition fees and living expenses also depend on how popular and renowned the university is and its location. However, high tuition fees must not stop you from pursuing quality education. That’s why we have listed some of the most low-cost universities in the UK for international students. Here’s an overview of the budget-friendly universities in the UK and their program costs:

University	Location	Average Postgraduate Course Tuition Fees for International Students (GBP)	Average Undergraduate Tuition Fees for International Students (GBP)
Staffordshire University	Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England	£16,750 (₹18.27 Lakhs)	£16,750 (₹18.27 Lakhs)
Leeds Beckett University	Leeds, West Yorkshire, England	£16,350 (₹17.83 Lakhs)	£14,850 (₹16.20 Lakhs)
Liverpool Hope University	Liverpool, Merseyside, England	£14,500 (₹15.81 Lakhs)	£15,250 (₹16.53 Lakhs)
University of West of Scotland	Paisley, Scotland	£15,250 (₹16.53 Lakhs)	£15,250 (₹16.53 Lakhs)
Leeds Trinity University	Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England	£12,000 (₹13.09 Lakhs)	£17,900 (₹14.52 Lakhs)
University of Cumbria	Carlisle, Cumbria, England	£14,900 (₹16.15 Lakhs)	£14,900 (₹16.15 Lakhs)
Queen Margaret University	Musselburgh, near Edinburgh, Scotland	£9,250 (₹10.09 Lakhs)	£16,500 (₹18 Lakhs)
London Metropolitan University	London, England	£9,250 (₹10.09 Lakhs)	£16,500 (₹18 Lakhs)
University of Bolton	Bolton, Greater Manchester, England	£15,900 (₹17.41 Lakhs)	£15,900 (₹17.41 Lakhs)
Buckinghamshire New University	High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, England	£11,000 (₹12 Lakhs)	£19,000 (₹20.74 Lakhs)
University of Chester	Chester, Cheshire, England	£13,950 (₹14.91 Lakhs)	£14,750 (₹15.1 Lakhs)
Coventry University	Coventry, West Midlands, England	£16,800 (₹18.34 Lakhs)	£17,900 (₹19.54 Lakhs)

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1. University of Staffordshire

University of Staffordshire has three campuses in the UK: Stoke-on-Tent, Stafford, and London. The fee structure for the UG and PG courses varies depending on the location of the university campus. The university was established in 1914 to educate workers in the local industries. From a polytechnic institution, it evolved into a full-fledged university. 

The university pioneer in providing digital, technology, business, and innovation education in subject areas like games, music and sound, engineering, computing, acting and drama, and sports. The university also offers UG and PG courses in the health, education, public policy, and biomedical science fields. 

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the University of Staffordshire: 

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£16,750 per year (₹18.27 Lakhs)
PG Course (9 Months) Tuition Fees	£16,750 (₹18.27 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Computer Science – Public Health – Business – Engineering – Film and Media – Criminology

2. Leeds Beckett University

According to UniCompare University Rankings 2023/24, Leeds Beckett University ranks among the top 20 universities in England. Moreover, it ranks among the top 10 universities for campus and facilities according to StudentCrowd University Awards 2024. 

Besides being one of the cheapest universities in the UK for international students, it also has a 75% acceptance rate. This helps students get quality and affordable education, especially in the fields of business, healthcare, and media. The university hosts multiple student support and employability programs to provide career assistance upon graduation.

Here is an overview of the fee structure of Leeds Beckett University:

UG Course (3 years) Tuition Fees	£16,350 per year (₹17.83 Lakhs)
PG Course (9 Months) Tuition Fees	£14,850 (₹16.20 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Accounting – Finance – Management – Marketing – Engineering

3. Liverpool Hope University

Located in Liverpool, the university is surrounded by scenic cultural and historic beauty. Moreover, the university has a strong reputation for being a gold-standard university for teaching excellence (TEF 2017). The university offers nearly 1000 course combinations, reflecting its ability to cater to each student’s career goals. The university has a strong reputation for its humanities, education, and social sciences-specific programs. 

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the Liverpool Hope University:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£14,500 per year (₹15.81 Lakhs)
PG Course (12 Months) Tuition Fees	£15,250 (₹16.53 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Computer Science – Artificial Intelligence – Criminology – Performing Art

4. University of West of Scotland

The University of the West of Scotland is one of the least expensive universities in the UK offering career-oriented programs in nursing, media, and business. The university has limited undergraduate degrees and focuses more on teaching postgraduate programs. It also provides strong student support networks and career counseling to optimize your chances of landing a job in your preferred industry. University of the West of Scotland is an ideal choice if you are looking for quality education overseas at an affordable price.

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the University of West of Scotland:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£15,250 per year (₹16.53 Lakhs)
PG Course (12 Months) Tuition Fees	£12,000 –  £19,500 (₹12.82 Lakhs – ₹20.83 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Management – Engineering – Biotechnology – Psychology – Business

5. Leeds Trinity University

Leeds Trinity University is a community-focused institution in West Yorkshire. It is one of the most affordable universities in the UK for international students, known for its teaching excellence. According to The Complete University Guide: University Ranking report, Leeds Trinity University ranks #121 in the UK. 

Historically known for its teacher training and theology programs, Leeds Trinity University has recently invested in expanding its media studies and journalism programs. In recent years, the university has introduced a variety of new courses, including accelerated two-year degrees in education, sport, and tourism and leisure management.

Here is an overview of the fee structure of Leeds Trinity University:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£12,000 per year (₹13.09 Lakhs)
PG Course (9 Months) Tuition Fees	£17,900 (₹14.52 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Business – Law – Criminology – Computer Science – Construction

6. University of Cumbria

The University of Cumbria was established in 2007. The university offers over 200 affordable programs in fields such as health, technology, digital marketing, education, business, and arts. Cumbria provides a serene study environment with locations in Carlisle, Lancaster, and the Lake District. The university is also located in regions with lower living costs so you can experience the advantages of studying abroad without financial strain. 

According to the official website, the university is committed to fostering student success by offering practical, career-focused education alongside strong student support services. 

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the University of Cumbria:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£14,900 per year (₹16.15 Lakhs)
PG Course (12 Months) Tuition Fees	£16,900 (₹18 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Medical – Science – Education – Law – Psychology

7. Queen Margaret University

Founded in 1875, Queen Margaret University has gained a strong reputation for its expertise in business, health, social sciences, education, and creative industries. The university was founded to address society’s social challenges and continues to do so. If your field of interest is relevant to public welfare, Queen Margaret University is the most suitable university for you. The university also focuses on person-centered and career-focused teaching methods to ensure students can dive into meaningful careers upon graduation. 

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the Queen Margaret University:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£9,250 per year (₹9.88 Lakhs)
PG Course (9 Months) Tuition Fees	£16,500 (₹18 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Business – Education – Health Science – Media – Performing Arts

8. London Metropolitan University

The London Metropolitan University popularly known as London Met is a public research university. Being one of the cheapest universities in the UK for international students, the university’s central location provides a diverse range of opportunities for students to experience cultural life. Moreover, since London is home to several multinational companies, students can also seek internships during their courses. London Met offers strong programs in business, law, social sciences, and creative arts. 

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the London Metropolitan University:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£9,250 per year (₹9.88 Lakhs)
PG Course (12 Months) Tuition Fees	£16,500 (₹18 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Human Sciences – Law – Business – Social Sciences

9. University of Bolton

The University of Bolton ranks top #30 according to The Guardian 2024 and #1 for student satisfaction according to the Complete University Guide 2024. It is popularly known for its engineering, health, and creative arts programs. The University of Bolton emphasizes experiential learning. Its campus has a close-knit community and provides ample resources for student success, making it a top choice for budget-conscious students.

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the University of Bolton:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£9,250 per year (₹9.88 Lakhs)
PG Course (12 Months) Tuition Fees	£15,900 (₹17.41 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	MediaEngineeringBusinessComputer Science

10. Buckinghamshire New University

Buckinghamshire New University is located in High Wycombe. The university is located 30 minutes from London, making it a top spot for students to explore the main city. It is also one of the cheapest universities in the UK and offers free access to multiple activities to enhance your educational experience. The university offers over 300 programs in fields including nursing, business, and the arts, and has maintained a 96% employability rate for all of its courses. 

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the Buckinghamshire New University:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£11,000 per year (₹12 Lakhs)
PG Course (12 Months) Tuition Fees	£19,000 (₹20.74 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	NursingAviationCreative IndustriesPsychology

11. University of Chester

The University of Chester is a public university and one of the oldest higher education institutions in England, founded in 1839. With over 180 years of academic excellence, it is known for its strong commitment to providing high-quality education and personalized support for students. 

The university has earned several awards for its contributions to education, including recognition for student satisfaction, employability, and excellence in postgraduate programs. It offers a diverse range of courses across its campuses in Chester, Warrington, Birkenhead, and Reaseheath, attracting students from around the world.

Here is an overview of the fee structure of the University of Chester:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£14,450 per year (₹15.66 Lakhs)
PG Course (12 Months) Tuition Fees	£15,750 (₹16.1 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Management – Public Health – Psychology – History – Mathematics

12. Coventry University

Coventry University, located in London, is a dynamic and modern institution known for being one of the cheapest universities in the UK for international students. As the largest provider of business-related specialized courses in Europe, it offers a range of programs tailored to meet industry needs. The university emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to work on real-life projects and gain practical skills. Its strong global reputation for business-related courses is reflected in its consistently high rankings for employability and student satisfaction.

Here is an overview of the fee structure of Coventry University:

UG Course (3 Years) Tuition Fees	£16,800 per year (₹18.34 Lakhs)
PG Course (12 Months) Tuition Fees	£20,050 (₹21.42 Lakhs)
Specializations Offered	– Business – Engineering – Computer Science – Art – Law

Cost of Living in the UK

The cost of living in the UK varies widely depending on the city, lifestyle, and housing preferences. For international students, particularly those looking for the cheapest universities in the UK, it is essential to consider the costs of accommodation, food, and transportation in addition to the tuition fees. 

Here’s an overview of typical living costs in the UK:

Expenses	Estimated Monthly Cost (GBP)	Estimated Monthly Cost (INR)
Accommodation	£500 – £1,300	₹54,585 – ₹1.4 Lakhs
Grocery	£150 – £200	₹16,375 – ₹21,834
Transportation	£50 – £100	₹5,458 – ₹10,917
Utilities	£50 – £100	₹5,458 – ₹10,917
Phone and Internet	£15 – £40	₹1,637 – ₹4,366
Miscellaneous	£50 – £100	₹5,458 – ₹10,917

Scholarships to Study in the UK for International Students

Each of the universities provides both fully-funded and partially-funded scholarships in partnership with the British Government. These scholarships are provided based on academic merit, leadership and networking experience, and your ability to demonstrate your future goals and how it can contribute to the university. 

Here are some of the top scholarships you can apply for to fund your degree in the UK:

• Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship is fully funded. It covers tuition fees, living, and travel expenses with an additional monthly stipend. This scholarship is awarded to candidates who demonstrate leadership and networking potential with relevant examples. You would be expected to return to your home country upon successful completion of your postgraduate studies. 
• GREAT Scholarship: The GREAT Scholarship is provided in association with the GREAT Britain Campaign and British Council to eligible students from Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The scholarship is worth a total of £10,000 for various postgraduate courses. The scholarship timeline varies based on each participating institution, however, it usually opens at the start of the year. The scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate leadership and networking potential. 
• Commonwealth Scholarships: Commonwealth Scholarships are fully-funded scholarships awarded to individuals who can demonstrate their ability to become global leaders. Each year it is awarded to around 700 students globally. To be eligible, you must show your past academic and work merit. 
• Scotland Saltire Scholarship: The Scotland Saltire Scholarship is offered by the Scottish Government in partnership with Scottish universities. It’s designed for students from Canada, China, India, Japan, Pakistan, and the USA, providing up to £8,000 toward one-year master’s programs in science, technology, healthcare, and renewable energy. 
• Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship: The Charles Wallace India Trust Scholarship is awarded to Indians who are in the early to mid stages of their career. This scholarship is for candidates looking to pursue artistic, academic, and professional ambitions and to expand their international contacts.
• Hornby Scholarship: The Hornby Scholarship is specifically aimed at English language teachers from developing countries. Funded by the British Council and the A.S. Hornby Educational Trust, this scholarship provides full financial support for a one-year master’s program in English Language Teaching (ELT) in the UK. Hornby scholars are selected for their commitment to improving English education in their home countries and are expected to contribute to ELT development on an international scale.
• British Council Scholarship for Women in STEM: The British Council Scholarship for Women in STEM is aimed at promoting South Asian women who otherwise may not be able to pursue their education. It is awarded for postgraduate courses in the STEM field. All candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree that would allow them to gain access to a STEM course in the UK. 
• Global Wales Scholarships for International Students: The Global Wales Scholarship is a partnership between the Welsh Government, Welsh universities, and the British Council. It offers funding to international students from countries including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU countries to study in Wales. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition fees and aims to encourage talented students to explore Wales as a study destination. 

Pro Tip: Finances should not stop you from pursuing your education. That’s why we compiled this blog about top Indian government scholarships to study abroad.

Conclusion

The university you study at can significantly affect your career pursuits. However, some of the UK universities provide quality education at affordable prices. Studying in any of the cheapest universities in the UK, students can get access to networking opportunities, job assistance, and the overall experience of studying abroad without much financial strain. Moreover, you should also check out the best mba colleges in the UK if you plan to pursue an MBA in the UK to make informed decisions.

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