20 Cheapest Universities In UK For International Students 2024

According to the late Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. So, in this article we have listed some of the cheapest universities in UK for international students to help change the world, it can also come at a pretty inexpensive rate.

UK universities have fast become a place of formation for several global leaders, as these universities welcome students from all parts of the world. As an international student, you also have the opportunity to receive this quality education at subsidized rates.

In this article, we will explore the 20 cheapest universities in UK for international students, the benefits of attending the cheapest UK universities, how to apply to these universities, and a lot more. Let’s dive in!

Why Study in The UK?

Studying in the UK comes with numerous benefits. We have highlighted some of them below:

#1. Quality Education 

The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world. Markedly, the quality of education in these universities is top-notch. The universities have high academic standards and are practical and research-oriented

#2. Wide Range of Courses: 

UK universities offer several courses and subjects, allowing you to pursue your interests and also find the right course for your career aspirations.

#3. Internationally Recognized Degrees

There is no degree like a UK degree. A degree from a UK university is highly respected and recognized globally. So, obtaining a UK degree boosts your employment prospects and opens up international opportunities.

#4. Cultural Diversity

The UK is a multicultural society with a diverse student population from all over the world. Hence, studying in the UK helps you appreciate and accept the cultural values of others, thus promoting cultural exchange and world peace in the long run. 

#5. Financial Support

UK universities understand that all fingers are not equal, so they support international students financially. These universities, through several scholarships, can help you with your tuition, visa application fees, accommodation fees, and living expenses.

#6. Work Opportunities

Studying at a UK university gives you an opportunity to work part-time while studying. UK universities also provide you with valuable job opportunities after graduation.

#7. Language

Studying in the UK is an excellent opportunity to improve your English language skills, which can help in future job prospects and personal development.

#8. Travel And Tourism

The UK is home to several tourist centers. UK also has connections with countries in Europe and other parts of the world, making it easy to travel and explore new cultures and countries during your studies.

Benefits of Attending Cheapest Universities In UK For International Students

You enjoy several benefits by schooling in some of the cheapest UK universities. Some of the benefits we consider most important are:

#1. Lower tuition fees

With some of the cheapest universities in UK for international students, you can study under a world-renowned education system at a more affordable price. Thus, you save money on tuition fees and other related expenses.

#2. Cheaper Cost of Living 

Attending one of the cheapest universities in UK for international students can also mean lower living costs. You get to save money on accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.

#3. Diverse student body

Some of the cheapest UK universities for international students tend to attract a more diverse student body, as many people would also be searching for these universities. So, these universities help you learn about different cultures and make new friends from all over the world.

#4. High-quality education

The fact that a university comes cheap does not mean that its academic standard is low. Despite the rates, many of the cheapest UK universities still offer high-quality education, with experienced faculty and access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

Tuition Fees in The UK for International Students

The tuition fees for UK universities can vary depending on your course, academic level, and where in the UK you choose to study. Even in the cheapest UK universities, the cost of tuition can be significantly high. However, as we stated earlier, this is dependent on certain factors.

Based on Course

Some courses tend to have higher tuition than others. Courses like clinical and laboratory degree programs involve the use of expensive equipment, hence they cost more. On the contrary, social science courses tend to come at cheaper rates.

Based on the academic level

Undergraduate courses normally last four years. The tuition fees per year vary between £11,400 and £38,000 with the average cost at £22,200. 

On the other hand, postgraduate programs, such as Masters and Ph.D. programs may last for only a year. The tuition fees for a postgraduate course range from £9,000 to £30,000, with an average cost of around £17,109 per year.

Based On the Place of Study

Some places in the UK, such as Norway, Sunderland, and a host of others have lower living costs. Consequently, these places house some of the cheapest UK universities for international students. Tuition fees are much lower in these universities. 

What is the Cost of Living in The UK for Students? 

The cost of living in the UK can vary depending on the city you school, and your lifestyle. So, cut your cloak according to your cloth, as they say. 

Generally, the cost of living in the UK for international students is cheaper than what is obtainable in countries like the United States. Below, we have given you an estimated breakdown of the costs of living in the UK. 

You should note that these rates are only an average, and they vary per city.

How do I Apply to One of the Cheapest UK Universities as An International Student?

20 Cheapest Universities In The UK For International Students

#1. University of Chester 

The University of Chester founded in 1839, is a university that encourages an open, inclusive, and supportive environment. The university, though established by the Church of England, welcomes students and faculty of all faiths.

The University of Chester is research-oriented. It provides an exceptional student learning experience, develops staff expertise, and also provides teaching excellence. Additionally, the university is among some of the cheapest in the UK.

Also Read: Top 30 Free online Courses With Certificates in UK

#2. Staffordshire University 

Staffordshire became a university in 1992. It is popular for its innovative approach to vocational and academic teaching.

Staffordshire University is true to its heritage in Stoke-on-Trent. This further makes its students highly employable. 

#3. Teesside University

Teesside University is a cheap UK university for international students. The university contributes to its society by creating applicable knowledge for its students.

The university is research-oriented. Since 1992, it has raised many great people of repute.

#4. Leeds Beckett University 

Leeds Beckett University is one of the cheapest UK universities for international students. Located in Northern England, the university is a place for quality and impactful learning.

Leeds Beckett University supports its students by creating opportunities for them to gain employment after graduation.

#5. University of Cumbria

The University of Cumbria is a public university having its headquarters in Carlisle. Its other campuses are in Lancaster, Ambleside, and London.

The University of Cumbria takes a practical approach to learning, giving its students the best learning experience a person can dream of. Further icing on the cake is its cheap tuition rates.

#6. The University of Bolton 

The University of Bolton is a public university in Bolton, England. Despite, the cheap tuition obtainable at the university, it is among the top 5 UK universities in terms of the quality teaching it renders.

#7. York St John University 

York St John University is a public university that welcomes international students. Founded in 1841, the University has a very rich history.

As a student at York St John University, you have the opportunity to learn with state-of-the-art learning materials. The university also encourages students to participate in active community service.

#8. Leeds Trinity University 

Leeds Trinity University is a Public university that provides students with all they would need to become successful both in school and after graduation. The university provides work placements for students to enhance their employability after their graduation.

Despite its small size, Leeds Trinity University is great in achievements as it sits at 100th in the Times University Guide 2023. The University is a conducive place for international students to gain quality education, as it encourages its teachers to know each international student by name.

#9. University of Sunderland 

The University of Sunderland is a public university established in 1901. It is one of the cheapest universities in the UK for international students.

It is among the top 50 UK universities according to Guardian Times 2023. The university has high educational standards, with quality education as its watchword. 

#10. Plymouth University 

Plymouth University is a public university located in the city of Plymouth. The university has a student population of 18,410, making it the 57th largest university in the UK. 

The vision of the university goes beyond just the UK. It seeks to develop world solutions by imparting quality education to its students.

#11. University of Suffolk 

The University of Suffolk is a public research university located in Suffolk, East Anglia. It is among the cheapest UK universities for international students. 

As a student of the University of Suffolk, you gain the opportunity to network with fellow scholars and build a sustainable future for yourself and society at large 

#12. Coventry University 

Coventry University is a public research university located in Coventry. It is the largest university in Coventry, with a student population of 27,000. 

Coventry University exposes its students to practical learning in various fields. The university is the 25th best in the UK, according to the Guardian Times.

#13. London Metropolitan University 

London is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. A chance to study there is indeed a dream come true.

The London Metropolitan University is a public research university that adopts a practical approach to learning. In addition to its affordability, the university also invests up to £700,000 per year to sponsor international students who have demonstrated academic excellence.

#14. University of West London

The University of West London is another public university in London. The university centers its teachings on relevant skills that make students employable and innovative.

Another exciting fact you would want to consider as an international student is that the University is one of the cheapest UK universities. 

#15. University of Bedfordshire 

The University of Bedfordshire is a public university located in Luton, England. It is also one of the cheapest universities in the UK for international students. 

The University of Bedfordshire encourages cultural diversity, as it welcomes international students from all parts of the globe. 

#16. University of Stirling

The University of Stirling is a public university based in Stirling, Scotland. The university centers on innovation and excellence in both academic and extracurricular activities. 

Despite, being a highly regarded university, it is still one of the cheapest UK universities. The University of Stirling is also friendly to the international community. 

#17. Queen Margaret University 

Queen Margaret University focuses chiefly on research and innovation. It offers various programs in fields such as health, social sciences, creative arts, business, management and enterprise, and education. 

Despite the size of its student body, Queen Margaret University takes a person-based approach to learning. So, at Queen Margaret University, you never get lost in the crowd. 

#18. Solent University 

Solent University is a public university in Southampton, England. It has top-notch facilities that are up to industry standards.

Solent University also has a policy that fights discrimination. So, as an international student, you can be sure of quality and inclusive education.

#19. Wrexham Glyndwr University 

Wrexham Glyndwr is a young University in Wales, only established in 2008. It is a cheap UK university for international students. 

The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses. The university also offers online courses.

#20. University of Wolverhampton 

Last on our list is the University of Wolverhampton. It is a public university with four campuses across the West Midlands, Staffordshire, and Shropshire. The university offers quality education to students using state-of-the-art teaching facilities. 

Also, The University of Wolverhampton has a student body that cuts across diverse nationalities. It has about 2,500 international students from over 140 countries

FAQs On Cheapest Universities In UK For International Students

The cost of living in the UK can vary depending on the city you school, and your lifestyle. So, cut your cloak according to your cloth, as they say. 

Generally, the cost of living in the UK for international students is cheaper than what is obtainable in countries like the United States. Below, we have given you an estimated breakdown of the costs of living in the UK. 

• Accommodation: £600 – £800
• Groceries: £100 – £200
• Household bills: £80 – £140
• Public transport: £54 – £103
• Mobile phone bills: £18
• Student gym membership: £15 – £20 per month 
• Social outings (diners, bars, and cafés): £80 – £150
• Stationary and textbooks: £20 – £40
• Clothing: £50 – £75

You should note that these rates are only an average, and they vary per city.

As a foreign student in the UK, you will need to have an internationally recognized English qualification, such as a good score in IELTS. However, UK universities can consider English language qualifications other than the IELTS.

For courses that require merit, you need to have an overall grade of 80% or 3.75 out of 4.0. However, for courses that require a distinction, you need to have an overall grade of 85% or 3.85 out of 4.0

To be eligible to apply for an undergraduate program as an international student, you must have completed at least 12 years of primary and secondary education.

No, there are no tuition-free universities in the UK. Your best bet at getting tuition-free education is through scholarships and other financial aid.

20 cheapest Universities In UK For International Students

• #1. University of Chester 
• #2. StaffordshireUniversity 
• #3. Teesside University
• #5. University of Cumbria
• #4. Leeds Beckett University 
• #6. The University of Bolton 
• #7. York St John University 
• #8. Leeds Trinity University 
• #9. University of Sunderland 
• #10. Plymouth University 
• #11. University of Suffolk 
• #12. Coventry University 
• #13. London Metropolitan University 
• #14. University of West London
• #15. University of Bedfordshire 
• #16. University of Stirling
• #17. Queen Margaret University 
• #18. Solent University 
• #19. Wrexham Glyndwr University 
• #20. University of Wolverhampton 

Conclusion

So there you have it, the 20 cheapest universities in the UK for international students. If you are an international student looking to study in the UK, you should consider these cheap UK universities altogether. 

Also, you should consider the location of the university, and the cost of living in that city. It is better to attend a university in a city with a lower cost of living. That way, you get to save a whole lot more.

Reference

• studying-in-uk.org – Cheapest Universities in UK
• yocket.com – Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students
• study-uk.britishcouncil.org – Cost of Studying in the UK