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Top 8 Affordable Universities in UK for International Students

affordable-universities-in-uk

Are you dreaming of studying in the UK but worried about the high costs of education? Finding a university that aligns with your budget can seem like a challenge. Yet, affordable options do exist. In this blog post, we reveal the secrets to discovering affordable universities in the UK, ensuring you don't sacrifice quality for cost. By the end of this blog, you'll have the knowledge and tips needed to pursue your UK education dream economically. Get ready to explore the realm of budget-friendly British higher education!

Top 8 Cheapest Universities in the UK

The United Kingdom is renowned for its world-class education system, but studying here doesn't always have to break the bank. Here's a list of the top 10 most affordable universities in the UK, offering quality education at a fraction of the cost. This list is particularly useful for international students looking to balance budget constraints with the desire for a reputable education.

  • Leeds Beckett University
  • Teesside University
  • Staffordshire University
  • University of Cumbria
  • University of Sunderland
  • Coventry University
  • University of Bolton
  • Glyndwr University

These universities represent not just affordability but also quality, diversity, and a commitment to student success. They are ideal for students who wish to experience UK education without the high financial burden often associated with it.

Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Beckett University, established in 1824, is nestled in the vibrant and student-friendly city of Leeds, UK. Originally Leeds Mechanics Institute, it has evolved into a modern, public university known for its innovative approach to education. The university boasts two primary campuses: City Campus, in the heart of Leeds with its urban buzz, and Headingley Campus, surrounded by picturesque greenery. Leeds Beckett stands out for its strong focus on employability, offering a wide range of courses that blend academic learning with practical skills. Its diverse student population, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to student success make it a popular choice for both domestic and international students.Leeds Beckett University has an acceptance rate of 80% and has a straightforward and simple admission process.

Overview:

Category

Details

QS World Rankings (2024)

1001-1200

Number of International Students

1,247

Average Tuition Fees

Approximately £12,000 - £15,000 per year for international students (varies by program)

Top Courses

Business and Management, Engineering, Art and Design, Sports Sciences, Law

Location

Leeds, West Yorkshire, England

Tuition Fees:

Course Level

Annual Tuition Fees

Pre-sessional 6 weeks

£2,310

Pre-sessional 10 weeks

£3,575

International Foundation Year

£14,850

Undergraduate / Bachelors (most courses)

£16,000

Postgraduate / Masters (most courses)

£17,500

Research

To be confirmed - visit The Graduate School website for more details.

Cost of Living for Studying at Leeds Beckett University

Accommodation

£758

Food

£120

Other costs (phone, clothes, socialising)

£145

One Month

£1,023

Using the above as an example, the estimated living costs for one academic year would be £9,207.

*Living expenses are estimated and dependent on your lifestyle

Teesside University

Founded in 1930 as Constantine Technical College, Teesside University is located in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, England. It gained university status in 1992 and has since become known for its forward-thinking approach and strong industry links. Teesside stands out for its focus on real-world experience, offering state-of-the-art facilities like the award-winning Business School. With a commitment to fostering innovation and creativity, it provides a dynamic environment for over 18,000 students, including a vibrant international community. The university's dedication to student success and career readiness makes it a significant educational hub in the North East of England.

Overview:

Category

Details

QS World Rankings (2024)

1001-1200

Number of International Students

1,066

Average Tuition Fees

Approximately £11,000 - £14,000 per year for international students (varies by program)

Top Courses

Engineering, Computing, Business, Health Sciences, Creative Arts

Location in the UK (2024)

Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, England

Tuition Fees:

Undergraduate, full-time

£

Undergraduate degree - placement year

£1,350

Undergraduate degree

£17,000

Integrated Master's Final Year

£17,000

Integrated Master's (standard four years) (MSc, MEng, MSci)

£68,000 total

Postgraduate, full-time

£

Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip)

£16,150

Postgraduate taught degree (MSc/MA) one-year

£17,000

Postgraduate taught degree (MSc/MA) two-years (Advanced practice/Applied courses)

£20,000 (£10,000 per year)

Research Degree Writing up fee

£650

Cost of Living for Studying at Teesside University

Expense Category

Details

Outstanding Tuition Fees

Total tuition fee for the first year minus any deposit already paid to Teesside University

Maintenance/Living Costs

£1,023 per month for areas outside London

Maximum Period for Living Costs

Up to 9 months, totaling a maximum of £9,207

Total Maintenance for 9 Months

£9,207 (9 months x £1,023 per month)

Financial Requirement Duration

Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days

Application Submission Requirement

Funds must be held no more than 31 days before submitting the Student Visa application to UKVI

Staffordshire University

Staffordshire University, established in 1914 as a polytechnic, is located in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England. It gained university status in 1992, marking a significant evolution in its educational offerings. Known for its innovative approach and strong industry connections, Staffordshire University offers a diverse range of courses, with a particular emphasis on technology and the creative arts. The university prides itself on its modern facilities, including the renowned Smart Zone and the Centre of Excellence in Healthcare Education. With a vibrant campus life and a commitment to student success, Staffordshire University is a dynamic choice for students seeking a blend of traditional and contemporary education in the heart of England.

Overview:

Category

Details

QS World Rankings (2024)

1201-1500

Number of International Students

1,500

Average Tuition Fees

Approximately £10,500 - £13,000 per year for international students (varies by program)

Top Courses

Computer Science, Business and Marketing, Engineering, Games Design, Healthcare

Location in the UK (2024)

Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England

Tuition Fees:

Undergraduate 

£16,750*

Undergraduate (Nursing, Paramedic Science, Operating Department Practice and Midwifery)

£19,000*

Standard postgraduate taught courses

£16,750

Nursing & Healthcare taught postgraduate courses

£19,000

PGCE 

£16,750

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

£16,750

Law LPC and LLM combined

£16,750

Law LPC solely

£14,000

Postgraduate Research

£16,750*

Placement fee for year spent in industry on a four-year sandwich course

£1,850

Accommodation in Staffordshire University:

Halls of Residence

Weekly Cost

Details

Clarice Cliff Court, Stoke-on-Trent

£132

En-suite rooms, 4-6 residents per flat, accessible rooms available

College Court

£132

En-suite rooms, 4-6 residents per flat

Leek Road Halls

£110

Shared bathrooms, 12-14 residents per flat, accessible rooms available

Leek Road Halls - Coalport Premier

£115

Premier offering, shared bathrooms

Leek Road Halls - Minton

£95

Most affordable, shared bathrooms, 12-14 residents per flat

Leek Road Houses

£125

Shared bathrooms, in 6/12 bedroom houses

University of Cumbria

The University of Cumbria, established in 2007, is one of the UK's newest universities, located amidst the picturesque landscapes of North West England. It emerged from the amalgamation of St Martin's College, Cumbria Institute of the Arts, and the Cumbrian campuses of UCLan. With campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, and Ambleside, the university offers a unique blend of urban and rural learning environments. Renowned for its excellent teacher training and healthcare courses, the University of Cumbria is also celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and outdoor education. Its intimate campus size fosters a close-knit community atmosphere, making it an appealing choice for students seeking a personalized educational experience in a tranquil setting.

Category

Details

QS World Rankings (2024)

-

Number of International Students

900 - 1000

Average Tuition Fees

Approximately £10,000 - £12,500 per year for international students (varies by program)

Top Courses

Education and Teacher Training, Healthcare and Nursing, Business, Arts, Outdoor Studies

Location in the UK (2024)

Campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, and Ambleside, North West England

Tuition Fees:

Course Level

2023/24 Tuition Fees

2024/25 Tuition Fees

Bachelors degree (BA, BSc, LLB)

£13,575

£13,575

Bachelors degree with Integrated Foundation Year

£13,575

£13,575

Bachelors degree in Social Work and pre-registration Health programmes (Diagnostic Radiography, Midwifery, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy)

£16,400

£16,400

Bachelors degree – accelerated 2-year degrees

£16,290

£16,290

Sandwich or Placement Year

£1,950

£1,950

DipHE or CertHE

£12,800

£13,575

Foundation Degree (Fda, FdSc)

£13,575

£13,575

Course Level

2023/24 Tuition Fees

2024/25 Tuition Fees

Masters degree (MA/MSc)

£13,575

£13,575

Masters degree in Health pre-registration programmes (Midwifery, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy)

£16,400

£16,400

MBA

£15,375

£15,375

PGCE with QTS

£13,575

£13,575

PGC non QTS

£3,600

£3,675

University of Sunderland

Founded in 1901 as Sunderland Technical College, the University of Sunderland has a rich heritage in education. Located in the vibrant city of Sunderland, North East England, it gained university status in 1992. Known for its friendly atmosphere and modern facilities, the university offers a diverse range of courses, with a strong emphasis on business, engineering, and media. Its two campuses, City Campus and the Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's, are set against the backdrop of the scenic River Wear. The University of Sunderland is particularly noted for its commitment to providing inclusive and innovative education, making it a welcoming choice for students from all over the world.The acceptance rate of the University of Sunderland is 27%

Overview:

Category

Details

QS World Rankings (2024)

1201

Number of International Students

Nearly 6000

Average Tuition Fees

Approximately £12,000 - £14,000 per year for international students (varies by program)

Top Courses

Business and Management, Engineering, Media and Communications, Health and Social Care

Location in the UK (2024)

Sunderland, North East England

Tuition Fees:

Level of Study

2022/23 Tuition Fees

2023/24 Tuition Fees

Undergraduate

£13,000

£14,000

Postgraduate

£13,750 - £15,000

£15,000 - £17,000

Cost of living for Studying at University of Sunderland:

Item

Budget

Average

Expensive

Accommodation

£300

£420

£540

Travel

£0

£15

£30

Food

£100

£150

£200

Course Materials

£15

£32

£50

Clothes, Toiletries and Grooming

£25

£50

£75

Social Life

£75

£100

£150

Miscellaneous Expenses

£30

£50

£70

Total Monthly Cost

£545

£867

£1,115

Coventry University

Founded in 1843 as Coventry College of Design, Coventry University has a storied history that has evolved into a modern and dynamic institution. Located in the heart of Coventry, England, the university is renowned for its innovative teaching methods and strong focus on employability. It gained university status in 1992 and has since become a beacon of diversity, with a significant international student population. Coventry University is particularly noted for its engineering, business, and health courses. The campus blends historic buildings with contemporary architecture, creating an inspiring environment for learning and creativity. This blend of tradition and innovation makes Coventry University a standout choice for students seeking a vibrant and forward-thinking educational experience.

Overview:

Category

Details

QS World Rankings (2024)

551 - 600

Number of International Students

A substantial international student community, specific numbers vary annually

Average Tuition Fees

Approximately £16,800 – £19,850 per year for international students (varies by program)

Top Courses

Engineering, Business and Management, Health and Life Sciences, Design and Media Arts

Location in the UK (2024)

Coventry, West Midlands, England

Tuition Fees:

Home course fees:

Course

Enrolment Period

Fees

MBA

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£22,550

MSc

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£15,400

MSc with Extended Professional Practice

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£21,250

BA

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£9,250

BA top-up

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£9,250

Overseas course fees:

Course

Enrolment Period

Fees 

MBA

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£22,550

MSc

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£20,050

MSc with Extended Professional Practice

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£21,250

BA

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£16,800

BA top-up

September 2023, January 2024 and May 2024

£16,800

Cost of living for studying at Coventry University:

Students should allow a minimum of £1,265 to £1,400 per month for living expenses. You may need to budget more depending on your accommodation cost.

Expense

Per month (approx.)

Bills for Private Accommodation, such as electric, gas and water

£100-250

Food / housekeeping

£150-250

TV License

£13

Mobile phone and internet

£30-50

Travel

£80-150

Safety net

£20-60

Insurance

£10-15

University of Bolton

The University of Bolton, established in 1982, is located in Bolton, Greater Manchester, England. Originally Bolton Institute of Higher Education, it gained university status in 2005, marking a significant milestone in its development. Known for its student-centric approach, the university offers a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and a supportive community. It stands out for its strong focus on professional and practical skills, particularly in fields like health, education, and engineering. The campus, set in a friendly and welcoming town, provides modern facilities and a nurturing environment, making it an ideal choice for students seeking a blend of academic excellence and personal growth. The University of Bolton's commitment to student success and employability makes it a unique and appealing option for higher education.

Overview:

Category

Details

QS World Rankings (2024)

-

Number of International Students

A diverse international student body, exact figures vary annually

Average Tuition Fees

Approximately £11,000 - £13,000 per year for international students (varies by program)

Top Courses

Health and Social Care, Education, Engineering, Business, Creative Technologies

Location in the UK (2024)

Bolton, Greater Manchester, England

Tuition fees:

Course Category

Tuition Fees for September 2023

General Courses

£13,550 (excluding specific courses like MBAs and others)

Exceptions (e.g., MBAs, MSc Physician Associate Studies, etc.)

Please refer to the Fees & Funding tab on the course page in the Official website for specific fees.

Cost of Studying at The University of Bolton:

Estimated living costs 2023/24

47 weeks

Accommodation Orlando Village (47 week contract)

£5,875.00

Food (based on average weekly spend of £40 over 47 weeks)

£1,880.00

Course related costs (books, stationary, etc)

£300.00

Clothing and footwear

£400.00

Mobile phone (based on £20 per month for 12 months)

£240.00

General living expenses including sport/leisure/socialising (estimate)

£1,000.00

TV licence (actually £154.50)

£159.00

Total annual expenditure (predicted)

£9,854.00

Glyndwr University

Glyndwr University, established in 2008, is located in Wrexham, North Wales, making it one of the youngest universities in the UK. Named after the Welsh prince Owain Glyndwr, the university prides itself on its strong community focus and commitment to student success. Formerly known as the North East Wales Institute for Higher Education (NEWI), the institution was granted university status in 2008 and became Glyndwr University. It then added Wrexham to the front of its name in 2016. It offers a range of vocational courses, notably in science, engineering, and the creative arts. Glyndwr's modern campus is equipped with excellent facilities, including a notable Centre for the Creative Industries. The university's intimate size fosters a supportive and personalized learning environment, ideal for students seeking a close-knit community experience. Glyndwr University stands out for its blend of traditional Welsh culture with contemporary academic pursuits, providing a unique and enriching educational experience.

Overview:

Category

Details

QS World Rankings (2024)

[To be updated based on latest rankings]

Number of International Students

A growing international student community, specific numbers vary annually

Average Tuition Fees

Approximately £11,000 - £13,000 per year for international students (varies by program)

Top Courses

Science and Engineering, Creative Arts and Design, Business, Computing, Health and Social Care

Location in the UK (2024)

Wrexham, North Wales, England

Tuition fees:

Course

2023-24

Fee

2024-25

Fee

Undergraduate

£11,750

£11,750

Postgraduate

 -

MA/MSc

£12,500

£12,500

MBA

£13,000

£13,000

MSc with Advanced Practice

£13,000

Standard programme fee + £1,000

MBA with Advanced Practice

£13,500

Standard programme fee + £1,000

MSc with Pre-Masters

£15,500

Standard programme fee + £2,500

MBA with Pre-Masters

£16,000

Standard programme fee + £2,500

Cost of living for Studying at Wrexham University:

Expense Type

Cost in Wrexham

Comparison with London

On-campus Accommodation

From £440 per month

58% cheaper than London (approx. £800 per month)

Private Housing

Up to £266 per month

132% cheaper than London (approx. £1300 per month)

Distance to University

Within 3 miles (for most accommodations)

-

Distance for Outskirts Housing

Up to 20 miles

-

These cheapest universities in UK offer a diverse range of courses, modern facilities, and a supportive learning environment, all at a fraction of the cost of their more expensive counterparts. For Nepalese students aspiring to study in the UK, navigating this landscape can be challenging. This is where AECC, a leading study abroad consultancy, steps in.

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