How Much Does University Cost in the UK? Fees, Living Costs and Funding Explained

As their child prepares for higher education, many parents wonder, “how much does university cost in the UK?”

University in the UK typically costs between £18,000 and £28,000 per year once tuition fees and living expenses are included.

These costs vary across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with some regions proving more affordable than others.

In this guide, we’ll explain real university costs, explore student loans, grants, and budgeting tips to help make higher education achievable for every family.

Tuition Fees in the UK

Tuition fees are the biggest student expense, varying across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Knowing these differences early helps families plan confidently.

Tuition Fees for UK Students

For home students, tuition fees are regulated by government policy. In England, universities can charge up to £9,250 per year for full-time undergraduate degrees at publicly funded institutions, according to the Office for Students.

In Wales, the cap is slightly lower, with the Welsh Government stating that the maximum tuition fee is £9,000 per year. In Northern Ireland, the Department for the Economy notes that local students pay a reduced rate of around £4,855, while those from elsewhere in the UK studying in Northern Ireland may be charged up to £9,535.

Scotland follows a different system. Scottish-domiciled students studying in Scotland do not pay tuition for their first undergraduate degree. The Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) covers these costs directly. However, students from England, Wales, or Northern Ireland studying in Scotland are charged up to £9,535 per year.

If your child wants to experience what studying at a UK university feels like before committing, explore our Oxford Summer School and Cambridge Summer School. Both programmes offer subject-focused learning in historic university settings, helping students build academic confidence and prepare for future study.

Open University and Distance Learning

For students seeking a flexible and affordable path, the Open University offers part-time and online degree options. Tuition is charged per module rather than per year, with total costs of up to £6,400 per year for a full-time undergraduate degree.

This model allows students to work while studying and to spread costs over several years, a valuable option for those balancing study with employment or family commitments.

Tuition Fees for International Students

International students face higher fees, which vary by subject and university. 

According to the British Council, lecture-based courses such as humanities and social sciences usually cost between £11,000 and £26,000 per year. Laboratory-based and clinical degrees, including medicine or engineering, can reach £25,000 to £38,000 annually. Universities in London or Russell Group institutions typically sit at the higher end of these ranges.

International students are not eligible for UK government loans. Most rely on family funding, private finance, or scholarships offered by universities and organisations such as the British Council and Chevening. 

Because tuition is only part of the total cost, it’s important to include accommodation and everyday living expenses when planning a study budget.

How Tuition Fees Are Paid

Most UK students do not pay tuition fees upfront. Instead, Student Finance provides a Tuition Fee Loan that covers the full cost of a course, paid directly to the university. This allows students to begin their studies without immediate financial pressure.

Loan repayments start after graduation, once income exceeds about £25,000 per year under the Plan 5 system. 

Payments are deducted automatically through the tax system and adjusted according to earnings. This income-based approach ensures repayments remain manageable and fair throughout a graduate’s career.

Living Costs for University Students

Living expenses make up a large part of overall spending and vary by location, accommodation, and lifestyle. Understanding these helps families manage budgets effectively and see more clearly how much does university cost in the UK for each student.

1. Accommodation

Accommodation is usually the biggest living expense after tuition.

Typical costs include:

• University halls of residence: £150–£250 per week, depending on location, facilities, and catering
• Halls in northern cities (Sheffield, Leeds, Nottingham): around £150–£180 per week
• Halls in London: often exceed £250 per week
• Private housing: £130–£200 per week (excluding utilities, Wi-Fi, and transport)

Renting further from campus may reduce rent but increase travel costs. Comparing contracts, deposits, and included bills early helps families find the best balance between cost, comfort, and convenience.

These housing choices can significantly affect how much does university cost in the UK, especially between cities like London and Sheffield.

2. Food, Bills, and Transport

Everyday essentials can quickly add up. Typical monthly costs are:

• Groceries: £100–£150
• Utilities and internet: £50–£70
• Transport: £40–£80

Cooking at home is far cheaper than eating out and helps stretch student budgets. Using railcards, student bus passes, or cycling to campus are effective ways to reduce expenses.

3. Study Materials and Course Costs

Study materials are an essential but often overlooked expense. Most students spend £200 to £500 per year on books, stationery, and specialist software. 

Costs vary by subject. Science and art courses often require more equipment. Hidden costs such as lab coats, field trips, or professional memberships can also appear, so it’s worth checking course requirements early.

4. Entertainment and Personal Spending

Social activities are an important part of university life. 

On average, students set aside about £100 to £200 per month for non-essential spending like entertainment, gym memberships, streaming and societies. Liverpool’s guidance puts socialising and entertainment at £50 to £200 per month.

While these are optional, they contribute to wellbeing and balance.

Including a small “wellbeing buffer” within the monthly budget allows students to enjoy their social life responsibly without adding financial pressure.

If your child wants to gain an early understanding of independent student life, our Oxford Summer School offers a unique opportunity to live and learn in a real university environment. It helps students experience academic independence, manage daily routines, and prepare confidently for the financial and personal responsibilities of higher education.

Medicine

In-person

Explore medical sciences in London, home to pioneering...

Career Insights

Provides a comprehensive introduction to various professions. Suitable for students starting to consider their future careers and wishing to explore different professions.

Ages: 15-18

Philosophy Politics and Economics

In-person

Analyse society’s core systems in Oxford, where interdisciplinary...

Academic Insights

Provides a thorough introduction to diverse academic fields. Ideal for students beginning to contemplate their future academic paths and eager to explore various disciplines.

Ages: 16-18

Prev next

How Costs Vary Across the UK

University costs vary across the UK. Tuition fees are capped, but living expenses differ by region. Making regional comparisons vital for understanding how much does university cost in the UK overall.

England

In England, tuition fees are capped at £9,250 per year for home students. Living costs vary by region: NatWest’s 2025 Student Living Index shows northern cities such as Manchester, Sheffield and Newcastle among the cheapest.

London and southern areas are notably more expensive, often adding £3,000 to £5,000 per year to total budgets. 

Scotland

In Scotland, tuition is free for Scottish residents studying for their first undergraduate degree, funded through the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). 

Students from the rest of the UK pay up to £9,535 per year. While tuition is covered for local students, living costs in major cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow remain high, especially for rent and transport. 

In Edinburgh, student rents typically fall around £170 to £220 per week, depending on neighbourhood and flat type. In Glasgow, a guide is about £150 to £200 per week, also based on Citylets Q2 2025.

For monthly budgets, plan an additional £250 to £350 for transport and food, drawing on the 2025 National Student Money Survey and typical local travel pass prices.

Wales and Northern Ireland

In Wales, students receive a mix of loans and grants from Student Finance Wales, helping cover tuition (up to £9,000 per year) and living costs. Welsh students studying elsewhere in the UK can still access this support.

In Northern Ireland, tuition fees are lower for local students, capped at about £4,855 per year, while students from other UK regions may pay up to £9,535. Living costs are generally lower than in other parts of the UK, helping budgets stretch further.

Join the Immerse Education 2025 
Essay Competition

Follow the instructions to write and submit your best essay for a chance to be awarded a 100% scholarship.

Join competition

The Real Cost of Living at University

When planning for university, look beyond tuition fees. To truly understand how much does university cost in the UK, families should consider living costs, which often form the largest share and vary by lifestyle and location.

Average Annual Total for UK Students

Combining tuition and living costs, students studying outside London typically spend £18,000 to £22,000 per year. This includes rent, food, travel, and study materials. 

For those in London, where accommodation and transport are more expensive, the total rises to around £24,000 to £28,000 annually.

Although these costs may seem high, most students rely on a mix of maintenance loans, grants, and part-time work to manage expenses. 

For International Students

International students face higher overall costs, ranging from £25,000 to £45,000 per year, depending on the course, university, and accommodation. 

Tuition fees make up the largest share, while living costs vary widely between regions. 

Smaller towns are generally more affordable than London or the South East. Factoring in visa fees, health charges, and travel ensures a more accurate budget.

How Inflation and Rent Impact Budgets

Since 2022, inflation and rising rent have pushed student costs higher. An article by the BBC shows food and drink prices increased by 4.9 percent over the last year in several cities. 

Careful budgeting, part-time work, and financial support can help students manage these pressures without affecting their studies.

Funding and Financial Support Options

Financial support helps make university more affordable. The UK offers loans, grants, and scholarships for home and international students, helping families plan effectively.

Student Loans

Most UK students use government-funded loans to cover university costs. 

These include Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans, available through Student Finance England, Student Finance Wales, Student Finance Northern Ireland, and the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS).

The Tuition Fee Loan pays tuition directly to the university, covering up to £9,250 per year in England. Maintenance Loans support living costs such as rent and food. 

For 2025, students living away from home outside London can receive up to £10,227, while those studying in London can receive up to £13,348.

Repayments begin after graduation once income exceeds about £25,000 per year under the Plan 5 system. 

Payments are deducted automatically through the tax system and stop if income falls below the threshold, keeping repayments fair and affordable.

Grants and Bursaries

Grants and bursaries offer financial help that does not need to be repaid. They are available to students from low-income households, high achievers, or those facing specific circumstances.

Many universities run their own schemes, such as the University of Manchester Undergraduate Access Scholarship and the Leeds Financial Support Scheme, which provides up to £2,000 per year. 

Charities like the Lawrence Atwell’s Charity and The Snowdon Trust also support students from disadvantaged backgrounds or with disabilities. Applying early increases the chance of securing funding.

Scholarships for International Students

International students can apply for scholarships that recognise academic excellence and leadership potential. 

Notable awards include the Chevening Scholarship, which covers tuition and living costs for postgraduate study, and the Commonwealth Scholarship, which supports students from eligible countries.

Universities also offer merit-based awards, such as the University of Bristol Think Big Scholarship and the University of Birmingham Global Masters Scholarship. These reduce financial pressure and enhance global access to UK higher education.

EU Students with Settled or Pre-Settled Status

Since the UK left the European Union, EU students no longer automatically qualify for home-fee status. However, those who hold settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme may still be eligible for home tuition fees and Student Finance support, provided they meet residency requirements.

Eligibility depends on how long the student has lived in the UK before their course begins. It’s essential to check the latest rules on the UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) website or through regional Student Finance agencies to confirm current criteria.

Understanding these rules helps EU students estimate how much does university cost in the UK under current post-Brexit funding arrangements.

Parental Contributions

Maintenance Loans are means-tested, meaning household income directly affects how much a student can borrow. 

Families earning below £25,000 per year may receive the full amount, while those earning above £60,000 receive less. 

Parents are often expected to bridge this gap, so reviewing finances early helps families plan realistic contributions to rent, food, and transport costs.

Part-Time Work and Other Income Sources

Alongside loans and grants, many students earn extra income while studying. These part-time jobs and freelance opportunities help manage budgets and directly affect how much does university cost in the UK for each individual student.

1. Working While Studying

Many students work in hospitality, retail, or on campus as student ambassadors or library assistants. 

Typical pay ranges from £10 to £13 per hour, with tutoring often paying £15 to £30. These roles help cover everyday expenses and develop employability skills.

International students can work during term time but are limited to 20 hours per week under visa rules. Balancing work with study helps maintain strong academic performance.

2. Summer Work and Internships

University holidays are ideal for earning money and gaining experience. 

Short-term roles in retail, hospitality or administration provide income, while internships offer industry exposure and can lead to future employment. Applying early through university career services improves placement chances.

3. Side Hustles and Freelancing

Freelancing and side projects are increasingly popular among students looking for flexibility and creativity.

Common options include:

• Digital tutoring
• Content creation
• Graphic design

Earnings often range from £20–£50 per project, depending on skill and workload. Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Tutorful help students find clients and manage work schedules. Strong time management is key to balancing study and earning commitments effectively.

Budgeting for University Life

Managing money well is essential for a successful university experience. A clear budget helps students stay on track, avoid unnecessary debt, and make the most of available funds.

Creating a Realistic Budget

Begin by listing all income sources and expenses.

Typical income sources include:

• Maintenance loans
• Part-time work
• Family contributions

Then separate expenses into two categories:

• Fixed costs – rent, bills, insurance, and subscriptions
• Variable costs – food, travel, leisure, and course materials

Using budgeting apps such as Emma, Monzo, or Money Dashboard helps students:

• Track spending automatically
• Set limits and alerts
• Adjust budgets as costs change through the year

Cost-Saving Tips

Small changes can make a big impact. 

Cooking at home, using student discounts through UNiDAYS, TOTUM (NUS), or Student Beans, and buying second-hand textbooks are practical ways to save. 

Sharing bills and food costs with housemates also reduces monthly spending without sacrificing comfort or enjoyment.

Managing Money at University

Good financial habits prevent unnecessary debt. Students should monitor subscriptions, use overdrafts responsibly, and avoid high-interest loans. 

Banking apps can send spending alerts and help track expenses easily.

Regularly reviewing finances builds awareness and confidence, allowing students to focus on studies rather than financial stress.

If your child wants to build financial awareness before university, they can learn practical budgeting and saving tips through our Business Management programme in the Cambridge Summer School. It helps students understand real-world financial decision-making, develop independence, and prepare for life as a university student.

Hidden and One-Off Costs to Watch Out For

Beyond everyday expenses, students often face additional one-off costs each year. Planning ahead helps families avoid financial surprises.

Moving In and Out

Starting or ending a tenancy usually involves extra payments and travel costs. Typical expenses include:

• Rental deposit – equivalent to four to six weeks’ rent
• Moving costs – van hire or transport for belongings usually costs £35–£60 per hour for student-move services, depending on distance and load size. Short-term van rental for self-move options ranges from £25–£80 per day, depending on van size and region.
• Storage or travel – £50–£200 between contracts, especially for long-distance moves

Setting aside part of summer earnings can help cover these costs without disrupting the term budget.

Graduation Costs

Graduation expenses can reach £100–£200, covering gown hire, professional photography, and travel. 

Booking early often reduces costs and ensures availability during peak ceremony periods.

Visa and Health Fees (for International Students)

International students should budget for a Student Visa (£490) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£776 per study year), both paid during the visa application process. Factoring these in early ensures no delays before arrival in the UK.

How Parents Can Support Their Student Financially

Parents play a key role in helping students build financial confidence. Early guidance on budgeting makes the university transition smoother.

Step 1: Talking About Money Before University

Open, honest conversations about money help families set clear expectations. Discuss:

• Who will cover key costs such as accommodation, groceries, or travel
• How much support parents can realistically provide
• How much will students receive from loans, grants, and part-time work

Reviewing finances together helps identify any shortfalls early and prevents misunderstandings once the term begins. Shared planning encourages responsibility and builds good budgeting habits.

Step 2: Teaching Financial Independence

Encouraging students to manage their own finances builds lifelong skills. Setting savings goals and using tools like Monzo, Revolut, or Emma helps track spending easily. 

Parents can also guide them on using credit sensibly and avoiding unnecessary debt. Practising these habits early supports confidence and financial responsibility.

Step 3: Understanding Loan Repayments Together

Understanding student loan repayments reduces uncertainty. Graduates begin repaying once they earn above £25,000 per year under Plan 5, with deductions made automatically through the tax system. 

Any unpaid balance is written off after 40 years, ensuring affordability based on income, not debt size.

Comparing Costs: UK vs Other Study Destinations 

When compared with other major study destinations, the UK offers good long-term value. 

Tuition fees are high, averaging around £9,250 per year for home students and £11,000 to £38,000 for international students, but most UK undergraduate degrees take three years to complete, rather than four as in the US or Canada.

This shorter duration reduces total costs for tuition and living expenses. 

UK universities are also known for strong graduate employment rates and global recognition. For families comparing global options, understanding how much does university cost in the UK highlights the country’s balance of quality, degree length, and long-term value compared with other destinations.

Conclusion 

Understanding how much does university cost in the UK helps families plan with confidence. 

While tuition fees and living expenses can seem high, careful budgeting and access to financial support make higher education achievable for most students. 

From loans and grants to part-time work and scholarships, there are many ways to manage costs effectively. With the right preparation, university becomes a rewarding investment in a student’s future. 

If you want to help your child prepare for university study and experience learning in a world-class academic setting, explore our Oxford Summer School and Cambridge Summer School programmes that develop independence, academic curiosity, and practical study skills for future success.

Explore more resources to help you prepare and plan your next steps with Immerse Education.