Last Updated on November 12, 2025
Students from across the world often dream of studying in the UK, however most back out on learning about the fees at the best universities. But wait! Now, world-class degrees are affordable. You can lay your hands on the cheapest universities in the UK. Low cost does not mean low quality, and on the contrary you get to be with the best in the educational business at these top UK universities. Scholarships are also available for international students, including those from India.
In this blog, you will be able to discover affordable universities in UK for international students. So, let us get started.
Key Highlights for Cheapest Universities In the UK
- The cheapest universities in the UK include Staffordshire University, the University of Cumbria and Teesside University, to name a few.
- The most affordable cities are Sunderland, Newcastle, Sheffield, and Leicester.
- The average UK university fees for international students in general is GBP 11,000 – 38,000 per year for undergraduates, GBP 12,000 – 30,000 for postgraduates, and GBP 15,000 – 40,000 for MBA.
- There are several key factors that one must consider while selecting universities for cheaper programs. They are location, funding and grants available, and flexible program tenures.
- The option to work part-time also makes a difference, as a student is able to balance the finances to a huge extent.
Top Affordable Universities In UK For Indian Students
| Name of University | QS World University Ranking 2026 | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Teesside University | 681-690 | GBP 15,000 – 17,000 |
| Staffordshire University | 1001-1200 | GBP 14,750 – 16,750 |
| Leeds Beckett University | 1001-1200 | GBP 14,000 – 16,000 |
| University of Cumbria | 1201-1400 | GBP 13,575 – 16,500 |
| University of Bolton | Not ranked | GBP 13,950 – 15,500 |
| York St John University | Not ranked | GBP 12,750 |
| University of Bedfordshire | 1001-1200 | GBP 12,900-13,275 |
If you want to get more information on the different low-cost courses available at the cheapest colleges in uk for international students, then you should read further.
Top Affordable UK Universities – Courses, International Students And Acceptance Rate
Staffordshire University
- Top Courses – Engineering, Medical Sciences, Natural Sciences
- Number of International Students – 1,500+
- Acceptance Rate – 57%
Teesside University
- Top Courses – Business, Computer Games Design, Animation, and Engineering
- Number of International Students – 1,066+
- Acceptance Rate – 31%
Leeds Beckett University
- Top Courses – Social Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
- Number of International Students – 1,247+
- Acceptance Rate – 75%
University of Cumbria
- Top Courses – Business, Education, Occupational Therapy and Forestry & Conservation
- Number of International Students – 900-1,000+
- Acceptance Rate – 72%
The University of Bolton
- Top Courses – Special Effects for Film and TV and Visual Effects courses, Business, Engineering
- Number of International Students –1,000+
- Acceptance Rate – 73%
York St John University
- Top Courses – Psychology, Business, Creative Arts
- Number of International Students – 800+
- Acceptance Rate – 78%
University of Bedfordshire
- Top Courses – Business, Health & Social Sciences, AI Technology
- Number of International Students – 5,000+
- Acceptance Rate – 80%
These are amongst the cheapest universities in the UK.
How Are These Universities So Affordable?
Most international students looking to study in UK are apprehensive of the high costs of education. However, if you are well-researched and well-informed, it could make a lot of difference to your financial wellbeing. These are the major reasons why the above universities are more affordable than others for international students.
- Those universities that are located outside metro cities like London, offer this advantage over it. The living costs are substantially lower.
- A large number of scholarships and funding are available for international students, which are need-based, merit-based, and country-based.
- Many of these universities are not a part of the popular Russel Group Universities.
If you are still inquisitive about the cheapest universities in the UK, then you must get in touch with study abroad consultants, like Admissify. Get unadulterated and verified information about the uk low cost universities, right away.
Expenses Beyond Tuition Fees At Cheapest Universities in the UK
While planning to seek admission to the cheapest colleges in UK for international students, one has to keep in mind that there are other associated costs apart from university tuition fees, books and stationery. Let us take a look at them.
- Accommodation
Where you live in the UK makes a lot of difference here. University halls, campus halls, and hostels are cheaper. On the contrary, if you choose shared apartments or condominiums, they can be expensive. On an average be ready to shell out GBP 5,500 – 8,500 per year.
- Food and Grocery
This is a huge part as well, and if you are not careful, costs could break the bank. Cooking is the best option here. The average cost is GBP 2,500 – 3,500 per year.
- Transport
Transport for daily travel and weekend trips also add up in time. Get ready to bear around GBP 700 – 1,200 per year.
You must plan in advance, and also keep some surplus for medical emergencies while aiming to study at the cheapest universities in the UK. Health insurance is a must for students travelling to the UK, and that also adds to the one-time investments.
Read more: Cost Of Studying in the UK for Indian Students 2026
Scholarships And Funding Avenues For International Students
While applying to the affordable universities in uk for international students, one must explore scholarships and other funding options. They can further lower the cost of education in the UK. Some of the popular ones are:
- Chevening Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
- University-based Scholarships
One can also get secured and unsecured loans from banks, if the family’s financial background is sound. For that, you can talk to a study abroad consultant with full knowledge on these aspects.
Read more: UK Study Visa Interview Questions with Answers 2026
How Admissify Can Help
Study abroad aspirants can now rely on Admissify, the top study abroad consultant UK for information on UK low cost universities If you take our guidance, you stand a chance to gain entry to any of the above affordable universities in UK for International students.
From choosing the courses, specialisations and the cheapest universities in the UK, to preparing for various entrance tests, we provide all sorts of assistance. We also help applicants craft the best statement of purpose, which acts as an integral part of the college or university application.
We assist in connecting you to our alumni, who can give you cost-effective options in terms of accommodation, travel, and food choices, while you go about your studies. We help you with the visa process and scholarship application, as well. Therefore, it is a great idea to work with us and increase the chances of getting accepted to the UK’s best and most affordable universities.
Conclusion
Although the high cost of education at UK universities, along with living costs can be a burden for Indian students, the cheapest universities in the UK make it less costly. Once you have selected the course, shortlisting a university keeping your financial condition in mind, is the next best step. Do keep in mind that the area where the university and accommodation is located are the primary concerns.
Metro cities will always be more costly than the suburbs and non-metros. Go for the best and most affordable universities in UK for international students, without burning a hole in your pocket. Take a look at the above listed universities, or seek professional guidance from educational consultants.
FAQs
The University of Sunderland and Queen Margaret University offer the lowest fee structure for international students. Then there is University of Cumbria, Teesside University, and University of Chester.
No, there are no tuition-free universities in the UK for Indian students. However, Scottish students do get the option, if they meet certain requirements. UK nationals pay lower fees in comparison to the Indians or other international students.
Northumbria University is one of the cheapest universities in the UK, which admits international students without IELTS. But you do have to take alternate tests like TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo. The same applies to the other affordable universities in uk for international students.
No, it is not compulsory, if the chosen university mentions that on their website. However, you may have to take alternate tests or have excellent scores in English at school.
Cities that are located in the North of England, like Newcastle and Sunderland are cheaper than others. Then there is Wales and Northern Ireland, where cost of living is comparatively lower.
Abhrajita Mondal, is a Content Writer who has dabbled in numerous genres including education since the last five years, and has a deep interest in Holistic Wellness & Lifestyle practices. She is an Ex-HR with over 10 years of corporate experience. For a voracious reader and consumer of information, which finds a way of expression through writing, she does that with elan. Abhrajita loves to travel and is a complete foodie. She has a thirst for the unknown, and loves to read esoteric books.
