The UK is one of the top destinations for higher education in the world—but it’s also known for its high tuition fees. For international students looking to balance quality education with affordability, choosing the right university is crucial. The good news? You don’t need to sacrifice your academic goals to stick to your budget. There are several affordable universities in the UK that offer excellent programs without the sky-high costs.
Whether you’re aiming for a degree in business, engineering, health sciences, or humanities, this guide will walk you through the cheap universities in the UK worth considering in 2025.
Key Takeaways
- The UK offers world-class education with plenty of low cost universities in UK for international students.
- Tuition fees vary significantly across institutions and degree levels.
- Many affordable universities are also located in regions with a lower cost of living.
- Budget-conscious students should also factor in accommodation, travel, and daily expenses.
- Scholarships and work-study opportunities can make studying in the UK even more accessible.
Why Study in the UK?
Still debating whether the UK is the right place to pursue your degree? Aside from its reputation for academic excellence, studying in the UK means you’ll experience diverse cultures, make global connections, and have access to innovative teaching methods.
Here’s why students from around the globe continue to choose the UK:
- Globally recognized degrees: UK qualifications are respected by employers and academics worldwide.
- Shorter course durations: Undergraduate degrees typically take 3 years, and many master’s programs take just 1 year.
- Post-study work opportunities: Graduates can stay and work in the UK for up to 2 years under the Graduate Route visa.
- Multicultural environment: The UK is home to students from over 100 countries, making it welcoming and diverse.
But one of the biggest hurdles remains: UK university fees for international students.
UK University Fees for International Students
The cost of attending a UK university as an international student varies widely depending on the course, institution, and level of study.
Here’s a quick look at the typical range of UK university fees for international students in 2025:
| Study Level | Average Tuition Fees (Per Year) |
| Undergraduate | £11,000 – £38,000 |
| Postgraduate | £12,000 – £30,000 |
| MBA | £15,000 – £40,000 |
But don’t let those numbers scare you. There are cheap universities in UK that fall well below the average, without compromising on the quality of education.
Let’s get into the top 10.
Top 10 Affordable Universities in the UK for International Students
Below are ten of the most affordable universities in UK offering low tuition fees, diverse course offerings, and international student support.
1. University of Sunderland
- Average Tuition Fees: £11,000 – £13,500 per year
- Located in the northeast of England, Sunderland is a budget-friendly city with a reputation for being welcoming to international students.
- Offers a wide range of degrees in business, media, computing, and engineering.
- Strong support services for career development and visa help.
2. Teesside University
- Average Tuition Fees: £11,825 – £13,000 per year
- Situated in Middlesbrough, a low-cost town, this university is a great pick for affordability and industry-focused programs.
- Known for its strong employability rate and emphasis on practical skills.
- Offers foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees.
3. University of Cumbria
- Average Tuition Fees: £10,500 – £12,800 per year
- With campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, and London, Cumbria offers flexibility in location and cost.
- Popular among students pursuing degrees in education, arts, business, and social sciences.
- High student satisfaction rates and a focus on community.
4. University of Chester
- Average Tuition Fees: £11,950 – £12,950 per year
- Located in a historic city, Chester offers an intimate and supportive learning environment.
- Affordable fees combined with modern facilities and a growing international community.
- Courses in health, business, and education are especially popular.
5. University of Bolton
- Average Tuition Fees: £11,000 – £12,500 per year
- Known for small class sizes and a strong focus on student support.
- Offers hands-on learning and strong links to local industry.
- Affordable living costs in the Greater Manchester area.
6. Leeds Trinity University
- Average Tuition Fees: £12,000 – £13,000 per year
- A smaller, values-driven university located just outside Leeds.
- Strong in journalism, media, psychology, and education programs.
- 97% of students are employed or in further study within six months of graduating.
7. University of West London
- Average Tuition Fees: £12,250 – £13,250 per year
- Offers excellent teaching in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
- Affordable compared to other London-based universities.
- Strong reputation in hospitality, music, and law.
8. University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)
- Average Tuition Fees: £7,000 – £12,000 per year
- One of the cheapest universities in UK for international students.
- Multiple campuses across Scotland offering flexibility and access to unique landscapes.
- A great choice for environmental sciences, history, and rural health.
9. Wrexham University (formerly Glyndŵr University)
- Average Tuition Fees: £11,000 – £12,500 per year
- Located in North Wales, it’s one of the most low cost universities in UK for international students.
- Focuses on employability and practical learning.
- Offers flexible intakes and generous scholarships.
10. London Metropolitan University
- Average Tuition Fees: £11,500 – £13,500 per year
- Offers competitive fees despite being in the capital.
- Known for inclusive education and real-world experience.
- A wide range of programs, including business, design, and technology.
What Makes These Universities Affordable?
Several factors contribute to these universities being budget-friendly:
- Lower overheads: Smaller institutions in less expensive cities.
- Government funding: Some universities benefit from local grants.
- Regional pricing: Cities like Sunderland or Middlesbrough have lower living costs compared to London.
- Flexible program durations: Shorter courses reduce total tuition and accommodation costs.
Don’t forget—tuition isn’t everything. You’ll also need to budget for:
- Accommodation: £300 – £800/month depending on location
- Food and supplies: £150 – £300/month
- Transport and leisure: £100 – £200/month
Tips to Make Studying in the UK More Affordable
Even at a cheap university in UK, managing your finances is key. Here are practical tips to keep costs down:
1. Apply Early for Scholarships
Many UK universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. These could be merit-based, need-based, or tied to your country of origin.
2. Work Part-Time
International students on a Tier 4 visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Jobs in retail, hospitality, or university positions can help with living expenses.
3. Share Accommodation
Living with other students can cut your housing costs in half, especially in bigger cities.
4. Use Student Discounts
From public transport to groceries and tech, your student ID gets you discounts almost everywhere.
5. Track Spending
Use budgeting apps to monitor your finances and avoid overspending.
Final Thoughts
Getting a degree in the UK doesn’t have to cost a fortune. These top affordable universities in UK prove that quality education is within reach, even for international students on a budget. Whether you’re interested in rural campuses, urban energy, or strong post-graduation employment opportunities, there’s something here for everyone.
So before you assume studying in the UK is out of your budget, take another look. The cheapest university in UK for you might offer everything you’re looking for—without the financial stress.