13 Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students in 2025 (Save £20,000+)

Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students in 2025

Students can study at a UK university for just £11,300. Many international students think UK education is beyond their budget, but several affordable universities offer quality degrees at reasonable rates.

   The 13 top  Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students affordably priced, high-quality education.  Their fees are far lower than those of other universities, ranging from £11,300 to £14,600.  Benefits like scholarships are available at these affordable UK universities.  Students also pay less on living expenses outside large cities.

      To assist students in making informed decisions, we have analyzed the cost of living, scholarship opportunities, and tuition for each university. York St John’s £11,300 MBA program stands out among the options. The University of Bedfordshire welcomes over 2,000 international students from 100+ countries and provides excellent value through its diverse programs.

York St John University

This York St John University ranks among the UK’s provided the most affordable options for international students who want quality education.

York St John University Tuition Fees and Cost Structure

 

  International students pay between £13,750 to £15,750 per year for undergraduate programs. The university is Partner with Flywire so the University Online Payment System are the two online payment methods that the university accepts from students.  Students must pay a 50% deposit of their first year’s tuition in order to get a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

 

Available Scholarships at York St John

 

The university gives extensive financial support through several scholarship programs. International students who enrolled in undergraduate programs get a £1,000 scholarship in their first year.Those student who pay their fees before September 15th receive a 5% early payment discount, which is valid for both postgraduate and undergraduate programs.

  Student have a number of financial choices, including government-sponsored programs in foreign countries, German DAAD grants, and Norwegian state loans.

   Federal loans are also available to US students for undergraduate and graduate education.

 

Living Costs in York

 

Living costs in York are far less than in other UK cities.  The monthly living expenses of international students, excluding tuition, come to around £950.  The cost of self-catered single rooms in the university-managed accommodation ranges from £99 to £224 per week.  Privately renting a studio apartment in the city center costs about £1,050 per month.

 

Career Prospects and ROI

York St. John University’s full career support displays its dedication to student achievement. Career services such as Handshake, a platform for graduate opportunities and one-on-one career counseling, are available to students for the rest of their lives. Graduates might receive up to 25% discount for additional education at the university.

The university’s career development paths include:

  •     Graduate internship opportunities within the university
  •     Digital Graduate Package Resources to explore post-study options
  •     Entrepreneurial support and resources
  •     Alumni benefits and networking opportunities

International students are negatively impacted by changes in immigration laws and competitiveness in the labor market.  The institution provides placement opportunities and specialized career support programs to help address these issues.

University of Cumbria

The University of Cumbria is one of the UK’s most affordable universities. Students get great value through competitive fees and a detailed support system.

Cumbria’s International Student Fees

Most of the  bachelor’s degrees will cost £14,900 for the school year 2025/26.  Some particular courses cost £16,900.  Pre-registration health courses include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, nursing, midwifery, diagnostic radiography, and social work.  The same patterns apply to master’s programs: ordinary degrees cost £14,900, whilst MBA programs cost £16,900.

 The student must pay a 50% program deposit before they can get their Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS).   The term flexible payment plans are an option, which is wonderful news.   The remaining fees can be paid in five equal installments starting in January and ending in May 2025.

Scholarship Opportunities

The university offers scholarships to students in lots of ways.   Students in full-time education from households earning less than £25,000 a year are eligible for the Cumbria Bursary of £1,000 each.   Those who attend classes part-time receive £500 annually. International nursing students can get the Global Health and Wellbeing Scholarship worth £4,000 per year. They get an extra £1,000 if they pay their fees upfront.

The Student Support Fund helps students during financial emergencies with these amounts:

  •     £800 for students with children
  •     £400 for students without dependents

Cost of Living in Cumbria Region

Carlisle, where one of Cumbria’s main campuses is located, keeps things affordable. Student housing costs about £97.90 weekly with utilities included. Daily expenses in the city are reasonable:

  •     A restaurant meal: £12
  •     Coffee: £2.37
  •     Milk (1L): £0.77
  •     Bread loaf: £0.90
  •     The university supports students during difficult financial circumstances in collaboration with the Students’ Union.  Campus-based students can get emergency food supplies through the ‘Keep me going’ food pantries they operate on campus.
  •     When compared to other UK locations, Lancaster has some of the best living expenses.  With an average monthly utility cost of £55 per person, international students on a tight budget can nevertheless receive a top-notch education.

Leeds Trinity University

Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students in 2025

        With Leeds Trinity, students have access to genuine career development possibilities.   A professional work assignments that provide students with practical industry experience is a common feature of undergraduate degrees.   The students are supported by the Careers+Placements staff by:

  •     Finding part-time jobs during studies
  •     Improving CVs and application forms
  •     Setting up 5-6 week professional placements in second year
  •     Creating final year projects with real organizations

        After graduation, 95% of graduates find employment thanks to the university’s strong industry connections.

         Students can join industry mentoring programs to build job skills and explore career paths. Career services and job search support remain available to alumni throughout their careers.    

University of Bedfordshire

  •     The University of Bedfordshire sits right in England’s middle and draws students worldwide with budget-friendly education and great scholarship options.
  •     Bedfordshire’s International Fees
  •     The 2025/26 academic year undergraduate programs at Bedfordshire cost £16,900, making it one of the most affordable UK universities. Master’s degrees and MBA programs stay competitively priced at £16,900 and £18,000 respectively.
  •     Available Bursaries
  •     Many scholarships are available to students who need significant financial assistance.  Undergraduate students from abroad are eligible for subject-specific scholarships for up to £6,000 per year.  Students from specific areas get additional assistance:
  •      High Achievers Undergraduate Scholarship (£3,000 yearly) helps students from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan
  •     EU Qualifications Scholarship cuts £4,500 off international tuition fees each year
  •      International Foundation Year Scholarship reduces first-year costs by £6,000
  •     Postgraduate students receive generous support through Global Subject-specific Merit scholarships worth up to £5,000Students who pay their fees before applying they get received a £500 discount.
  • Living costs near a campus.
  • The living near Bedfordshire’s campuses remains affordable.  A weekly grocery bill of £30 to £40 meets basic needed. The  Student housing includes utilities and costs between £109 and £150 a week.
  •     The students have save money through a range of university initiatives:
  •     The new campus menu offers meals and drinks for £2.50.

         Government hardship funds help students with financial difficulties

  • Three more scholarships that cover tuition, housing expenses, and travel expenses have been made possible by the county’s collaboration with Chevening.  Because of its extensive support system and cheaper living expenses outside of London, Bedfordshire, UK, is a fantastic choice for international students looking for an excellent education at a fair price.

Teesside University

        Teesside University sits in England’s vibrant Northeast, giving international students great value for money and strong career prospects.

Teesside’s Program Costs

               The university keeps tuition rates competitive for international students. Undergraduate and postgraduate taught programs cost £17,000 per year. Students need to pay a £4,000 deposit to get their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). The university also lets students spread their payments throughout the academic year.

Financial Support Systems

                  Students can access significant financial help through several scholarships. The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship takes £7,000 off first-year fees as a one-time payment. Students can also apply for:

  •     Global Excellence Scholarship worth £2,000
  •     China Merit Scholarship worth £3,000
  •     GREAT Scholarships program giving £10,000 to eligible postgraduate students from selected countries

Living Expenses in Middlesbrough

          Students find Middlesbrough one of the UK’s most affordable cities. Monthly living costs average £758.58. Here’s what students typically spend:

  •     Housing: £250-£450 each month
  •     Groceries: £160 each month
  •     Utility bills: £220 each month
  •     Restaurant meals: £30 per person

Part-time Work Options

           Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. The university helps students find jobs at major companies like Microsoft, IBM, Siemens, and GlaxoSmithKline. Students get access to:

  •     Career workshops tailored for international students
  •     The Link – Students’ Union job portal
  •     Unitemps placement opportunities at Teesside University
  •     Year-long paid work placements in their field

        The university’s award-winning careers service works with international advisers and Students’ Union clubs to boost job prospects. Time Bank reports that 73% of employers prefer candidates with volunteer experience. Students can find volunteering opportunities through the university’s online Volun-tees service.

University of Bolton

Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students in 2025

      The University of Bolton offers some of the lowest tuition rates in the UK’s digital world and provides substantial financial support packages for international students.

Bolton’s Fee Structure

           International students at Bolton pay tuition fees starting from £11,250. Most programs for September 2024 start at £15,950. The university keeps its pricing transparent, and fees change based on your chosen program. MBA and specialized courses like MSc Physician Associate Studies have different rates.

Scholarship Programs

                The university shows its steadfast dedication to making education affordable through International Excellence Scholarships. Students can receive up to:

  •     £6,000 for 3-year bachelor’s and PhD programs
  •     £3,000 for 1-year/18-month master’s programs

          90% of international students get some form of scholarship support. The university is graduates get a £1,000 fee reduction when they study additional qualifications.

Cost of Living Benefits

          The University of Bolton ranks among the UK’s most affordable student cities. Student accommodation’s average weekly rent is £113, which costs much less than Manchester’s £160 rate. The university’s Orlando Village residence has some of the country’s most affordable accommodation rates.

Here’s what you can expect to spend annually:

  •     Orlando Village accommodation: £6,533
  •     Food costs (£40 weekly): £1,880
  •     Course materials: £300
  •     Clothing: £400
  •     Mobile phone expenses: £240
  •     General living costs: £1,000
  •     TV license: £159

Students can expect to spend £10,512 per year, making Bolton a smart choice for those watching their budget. The city’s tight-knit community adds value with local businesses that often give student discounts. On top of that, the university’s Cost of Living Support Fund helps eligible students who face financial challenges with one-time non-repayable awards of £500.

Wrexham Glyndwr University

 

 

            Wrexham Glyndwr University stands out as an innovative Welsh institution that gives international students quality education at reasonable prices.

Wrexham’s Tuition Framework

International undergraduate programs at Wrexham will cost £11,750 in the 2025 academic year, making it one of UK’s most affordable options. Students pay between £12,500 to £16,000 for postgraduate programs, with MBA rates staying competitive. The university needs 75% of tuition fees paid upfront before they issue the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Staffordshire University

 

           Staffordshire University’s main college campus in Stoke-on-Trent provides an cost-effective path to UK higher education for international students.

              Staffordshire’s Program Fees International students need to pay a deposit of £6,500 to secure their spot for January 2025 entry.  The university’s program prices change dependent on your course selection. The total cost of undergraduate courses is £16,750.

          A specialized courses like paramedic science and nursing, meanwhile, cost £19,000.  MBA programs and postgraduate teaching courses continue to charge £16,750.

 Affordable  Funding Support

           The SMART Scholarship programme reduced costs by £3,000 a year during your studies.

 

               This grant is given automatically to full-time international students who start their studies on campus in January or September 2025. The Lichfeldian Award allows people who want to work in the arts, and the 10-year-old Horizon Fund helps students who are struggling financially.

Living Costs in Stoke-on-Trent

         Stoke-on-Trent stands out as the UK’s most budget-friendly university city with an affordability score of 76.59 out of 100. Your monthly expenses stay reasonable with:

  •         Private rental costs around £450
  •         Food prices lower than major cities
  •         Student accommodation at £132 per week

The city keeps everyday costs manageable:

  •         Restaurant meals: £11
  •         Coffee: £2.79
  •         Milk (1L): £0.96
  •         Bread: £1.06
  •         The university stands out due to its close ties to the computer gaming and digital technology industries.  Staffordshire University is a great option for overseas students seeking a high-quality education at a fair price because of its pragmatic approach to education and the city’s reasonably priced cost of living.

University of Sunderland

          The University of Sunderland, with its QS 4-Star rating, welcomes international students with quality education at reasonable prices.

  •         Sunderland’s Fee Structure
  •         The cost of Sunderland’s undergraduate programs for the 2024–2025 academic year is £16,000.  With postgraduate course fees ranging from £16,500 to £18,000, Sunderland is among the most reasonably priced universities in the United Kingdom.  Before they get their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter, students are required to pay a non-refundable deposit.
  •         Scholarship Options
  •         The university supports international students with substantial financial support. Undergraduates receive £5,000 off their tuition fees, while postgraduate students get a £4,500 reduction. Several specialized programs come with specific scholarship amounts:
  •         •         PgDip/MSc Pharmaceutical Sciences (OSPAP): £900 off
  •         •         MSc Applied Project Management: £1,000 off
  •         •         MBA with Placement: £1,000 off
  •         •         MSc Applied Data Science: £1,000 off
  •         Northeast England Living Costs
  •         Students find Sunderland’s living expenses budget-friendly. Single rooms start at £81 per week, and studio apartments in the city center average £590 monthly. Daily essentials remain affordable:
  •         •         Milk (1L): £1.17
  •         •         Bread loaf: £1.38
  •         •         Rice (1kg): £1.58
  •         •         Eggs (12): £2.40
  •         •         Cheese (1kg): £4.71
  •         •         In addition, entertainment won’t break the bank.  A lunch for two at a reputable restaurant is roughly £55, while movie tickets are less than £8.50.   A three-bedroom apartment’s average monthly utility payments are between £195 and £220.   While students can save money by shopping at Aldi and Lidl and utilizing loyalty cards at local supermarkets, they may also get emergency food supplies from the university’s on-campus ‘Keep me going’ food banks.

Leeds Beckett University

        Leeds Beckett University welcomes international students with affordable education options in Yorkshire’s bustling heart. The university stands out with its modern facilities and strong industry connections.
• Leeds Beckett’s Program Costs
• International foundation year programs cost £14,750. International students pay £14,000 for bachelor’s degrees, while master’s programs range from £15,000 to £16,000.In addition to a £260 administration fee, students must submit a £1,000 security deposit as part of the confirmation cost. When applying for their Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS), students must pay £8,000 in advance for their tuition at the university.
Financial Assistance Possibilities


• The university’s nation-specific scholarship programs cater to the needs of international students.

Students get comprehensive support through:
• Study Care Insurance that covers health, medical needs, and personal possessions
• Payment plans spread across 12 or 24 months
• Special insurance rates from £450 for up to 12 months
• Yorkshire Living Expenses
• Leeds remains an affordable city for students, and UKVI suggests £1,136 monthly for expenses outside London. Students can expect to pay:
• £114 to £229 weekly for university self-catered accommodation
 £30 to £35 weekly for groceries and toiletries
• £13 to £16 weekly for household bills when not included in rent
• • £42 to £63 weekly for personal expenses
• The city offers lots of accommodation choices that are relatively affordable for students.
For international students, travel is simple due to Leeds Bradford Airport’s close close by. Because of the university’s location, students can afford to explore Yorkshire’s stunning countryside.
• Students who bring meals from home might save money by using the campus’s microwaves. Many of the the universities it have career services, including as job advertising and placement assistance, remain available to students indefinitely. The university welcomes newcomers and provides pick-up services from Leeds Bradford Airport (£68) and Manchester Airport (£187).

University of Chester

• Chester is among the most welcoming to students cities in the United Kingdom.
• . Its ideal fusion of modern education at affordable costs and ancient beauty attracts students from all over the world.
• Chester’s International Fees
•     The University of Chester offers affordable tuition rates. International students pay between £12,950 and £13,450 for undergraduate programs. The university accepts about 25% of applicants, which shows its balance of quality education and reasonable costs. Students need to secure their spot with a deposit before they receive their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
• Bursary Programs
      Undergraduate and graduate students can receive substantial financial aid through merit-based scholarships. When students’ applications are directly considered, they are not need to submit separate applications, which separates the university’s scholarship process. Among the university’s scholarship opportunities are:
 • International merit scholarships
•  Subject-specific awards
• Regional excellence grants
• Cost of Living in Chester
• Chester glows as a cheap city, with monthly living prices ranging from £1,196 to £1,299.
• Here’s what students typically spend each month:
• Student housing comes in several options:
• PBSA (Purpose Built Student Accommodation): £465-£700 monthly
•Private apartments: £725-£1,060 monthly
• • University halls: £500-£800 monthly
• Food costs stay reasonable with grocery bills around £200 monthly. Eating out fits different budgets:•  High-end restaurants: £50 per person

  •  Mid-range establishments: £30 per person
  •    Fast food options: £10 per person
  •  The majority of hostels include utilities like Wi-Fi, water, heating, cooling, and electricity in the rent.  Chester’s attractiveness extends beyond its affordability.
  • In 2019, the city was ranked as the second most student-friendly city in the United Kingdom.  Chester is therefore the ideal option for overseas students seeking a top-notch education without going over budget. 

    Plymouth Marjon University

  •      
  •       Plymouth Marjon University sits in Britain’s Ocean City, offering an economical path to UK higher education with clear fees and strong student support.
  •       Marjon’s Tuition Structure
  •       For the 2025–2026 academic year, international undergraduate programs will cost £14,600.  The costs of postgraduate taught courses are comparable, but those of specialist programs, such as MSc Physician Associate Studies, vary.  Prior to receiving their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), students are required to submit a deposit.
  •      
  •       Financial Support Options
  •       The university runs several scholarship programs to help with costs. Athletes can receive bursaries up to £4,000 each year. Students who need financial help can tap into the University Hardship Fund, which provides:
  •  Support worth up to £26,291 for disabled students who need specialist equipment
  •     Master’s course loans up to £12,167 for those who qualify
  •   PhD program loans that can reach £28,673
  •       Students with existing money commitments can get help through special bursaries if they’re mature students or come from low-income families. The university also helps students cover travel and food costs during their work placements.
  •       Plymouth Living Costs
  •       Plymouth stands as the UK’s seventh most affordable student city. Students usually spend between £1,400 and £1,600 monthly. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
  •       •     Accommodation: £300-£800 monthly
  •       •     Transportation: £80 monthly
  •     Utility bills: £230 monthly
  •       Groceries: £25-£40 weekly
  •        With average restaurant meals costing between £12 and £15, dining out in Plymouth won’t break the bank.  The average monthly expenditure for recreational activities for students who go out once or twice a week is between £100-£150.  The university helps students manage their finances by partnering with Step Change Debt Charity and offering a number of cost-saving initiatives.  Student parents benefit greatly from the on-campus Flying Start nursery, which has trained workers on hand to provide childcare.
  •           University of West London

 

 

         The University of West London (UWL) has been a beacon of affordable education since 1860, welcoming international students to its distinguished campus.

UWL’s Program Fees

       Undergraduate programs start at £13,000, while master’s programmes for overseas students range from £6,875 to £16,800.  As stated in your offer letter, the university has a well-organized payment system that requires a non-refundable deposit.  Half of the tuition must be paid at the time of enrollment.  Students can pay in more than 70 currencies with no transfer fees thanks to UWL’s relationship with Flywire.

 

Scholarship Schemes

      UWL’s dedication in guaranteeing that education is affordable is shown through a number of scholarship initiatives.  Every year, up to 100 first-year students receive support through the International Ambassador Scholarship.  The university offers:Alumni Bursary for UWL graduates who want to study further

  • EU-specific scholarships and bursaries
  • Federal Direct Loans for US citizens and eligible non-citizens

The Help to Achieve Scholarships, backed by alumni and friends, support both local and international students. The university also works with various funding bodies to help students access Norwegian state loans and German DAAD funding.

London Living on a Budget

      Monthly living costs in London usually range from £1,400 to £1,500. Your basic expenses include:

  • Accommodation: £1,606-£4,479 monthly based on location
  • Utilities: £302 monthly
  • Travel costs: £241 monthly with regular pass
  • Groceries: £100-£300 monthly

          Making educated choices helps students to successfully save money.  Free entertainment is offered by the museums in London and BFI Southbank.  Money can be saved by walking or cycling, particularly in downtown London.  The Students’ Union at the institution organizes social events that are affordable.  Part-time employment at LSE, think tanks, and tutoring services are other sources of income for students.  You can obtain discounts in London at stores, gyms, and entertainment venues with your student ID.

Comparison Table

University

Undergraduate Tuition Fees (2025)

Key Scholarships/Financial Aid

Monthly Living Costs

Notable Features

York St John University

£13,750 – £15,750

£1,000 first-year scholarship; 5% early payment discount

£950

Career services available throughout life; Graduate fee discounts reach 25%

University of Cumbria

£14,900

Global Health Scholarship (£4,000/year); Cumbria Bursary (£1,000/year)

£800-£1,000

Food pantries support students; Easy payment plans available

Leeds Trinity University

£12,000

Sanctuary Scholarship (full tuition); PhD studentships (£12,500/year)

£950

Degrees include work placements; 95% of graduates find employment

University of Bedfordshire

£16,900

Subject-specific scholarships (up to £6,000/year); EU Qualifications Scholarship (£4,500)

Not mentioned

Students from 100+ countries study here; Budget-friendly campus dining

Teesside University

£17,000

Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship (£7,000); Global Excellence Scholarship (£2,000)

£758.58

Major company collaborations; Award-winning career support

University of Bolton

£15,950

International Excellence Scholarships (up to £6,000)

£876 (£10,512/year)

Most international students receive funding; Best value accommodation

Wrexham Glyndwr University

£11,750

First Generation Opportunity Scholarship (£1,000 + 25% accommodation reduction)

Not mentioned

Students in university housing pay no Council Tax

Staffordshire University

£16,750

SMART Scholarship (£3,000/year)

£450 (rent only)

Most affordable student city in UK; Strong focus on digital tech

University of Sunderland

£16,000

£5,000 tuition fee reduction for undergraduates

£590 (accommodation)

QS 4-Star rating; Food support available on campus

Leeds Beckett University

£14,000

Country-specific scholarship programs

£1,136

Insurance coverage included; Free airport pickup

University of Chester

£12,950 – £13,450

Merit-based scholarships (amount not specified)

£1,196 – £1,299

UK’s second most student-friendly city (2019); 25% student acceptance

Plymouth Marjon University

£14,600

Sports scholarships (up to £4,000/year); Hardship Fund available

£1,400 – £1,600

Help with work placements; Childcare facility on campus

University of West London

£13,000

International Ambassador Scholarship (amount not specified)

£1,400 – £1,500

Simple payment system through Flywire; Multiple funding partners

Conclusion

           Excellent schooling in the UK doesn’t have to be expensive. The annual tuition for these 13 universities ranges from £11,750 to £17,000. This is significant since it indicates that their tuition is far lower than the average of more than £20,000 at other UK universities.

         Even more money can be saved by students. The considerable scholarships offered by the institutions reduce expenses by £3,000 to £7,000 each year. Living costs are also significantly lower in their smaller city areas. In Middlesbrough, a student’s monthly budget is approximately £758, whereas in London, it exceeds £1,500.

              Student success is the top priority at these schools. Leeds Trinity offers degrees that involve practical work experience, and York St. John offers lifetime career support. Additionally, flexible payment options and campus food pantries assist students in managing their everyday expenses.

These colleges may not be among the best in the world.  But at a fraction of the typical cost of a UK institution, they offer excellent value in the form of high-quality instruction and impressive graduate results.  Based on their financial constraints and academic objectives, students searching for reasonably priced UK degrees might evaluate these possibilities.

 

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the most affordable universities in the UK for international students? Some of the most budget-friendly options include York St John University, University of Cumbria, Leeds Trinity University, University of Bedfordshire, and Teesside University. These institutions offer quality education at lower tuition rates compared to many other UK universities.

Q2. How much can international students expect to pay for tuition at these affordable UK universities? Tuition fees at these universities typically range from £11,750 to £17,000 per year for international students. This is significantly less than the £20,000+ fees often charged by other UK institutions.

Q3. Are there scholarships available for international students at these universities? Yes, many of these universities offer substantial scholarships for international students. For example, York St John University provides a £1,000 first-year scholarship, while Teesside University offers a Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship worth £7,000.

Q4. What are the living costs like in the cities where these universities are located? Living costs tend to be lower in the cities where these universities are situated compared to major metropolitan areas like London. Monthly expenses can range from around £750 in Middlesbrough (Teesside University) to about £1,300 in Chester.

Q5. Do these affordable universities provide good career prospects for international students? After all, career help and employability are major priorities for many of these universities.  For example, most degrees at Leeds Trinity University include professional work assignments, while graduates of York St. John University have lifetime access to career assistance.

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