UK University Costs for International Students
You’re considering a UK university for your child and need to know the actual cost. University websites show tuition fees, but accommodation, living expenses, and visa costs are scattered across different sources.
This guide consolidates verified data from the Higher Education Policy Institute, UK government requirements, and university fee structures.
Tuition Fees for International Students
Tuition fees: £9,250–£70,554* per year
UK universities set their own course fees for international students. These fees are higher than UK students pay because international students receive no government subsidy.
This means that there can be wide variation in the costs of gaining a degree between different universities and subjects, with clinical and laboratory based courses costing more than classroom based degrees. Supply and demand also has an impact on fees with prestigious universities able to charge more than less well known institutions.
As you can see there is a wide range in tuition fees and understanding the finance involved for your career ambitions is an important step in gaining a place on the best course for your situation.
*£9,250 cost per year Queen Margaret University – Edinburgh
**£70,554 cost per year to study medicine at Cambridge for 2026 entry
Accommodation
Accommodation: £400–£1,800 per month
After tuition fees accommodation is the next biggest cost for international students. Like tuition fees, accommodation costs can vary by significant amounts with London and the south east higher than other regions.
The UKVI requires students in London to have £1,529 a month for living expenses and £1,171 if you are studying outside London. However, accommodation costs can easily exceed these amounts if you are planning on renting your own private accommodation.
| Accommodation Type | London | Outside London |
|---|---|---|
| University Halls | £1,005/month average | £800/month average |
| Shared Student Accommodation (Private rental – room in shared house) |
£500-£800/month | £400-£600/month |
| Private Non-Shared Rents (Studios/One-bedroom) |
£1,200-£1,800/month | £600-£1,000/month |
Notes:
- All figures are for 2024-2025 academic year
- University halls typically include utilities; private rentals often don’t
- Contract lengths vary: 38-42 weeks (university halls) vs 44-52 weeks (private rentals)
Visa costs
Student Visa: £490 + £776 per year
The costs for the study visa include a health cover surcharge that needs be pre paid for the entire duration of the course
Student visa application: £490
Immigration Health Surcharge: £776/year paid upfront for entire course
Proof of Funds Requirement
Bank balance: £13,734 (London) or £10,539 (Outside London)
In addition to the visa costs you need to have enough funds in a bank account to cover 9 months of living expenses and your first year’s tuition fees.
- £1,529 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London
- £1,171 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London
If you are an overseas British national or from one of the countries listed on the dropdown below you do not need to prove you have the funds although you may be asked for evidence of available funds for your visa to be granted.
The UK student visa rules are regularly updated. You can find the latest information here:
https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/money
Living costs and entertainment
Food, bills and going out: £440 to £1,200+ per month
These costs can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and location. If you frequently eat out and socialise, you can spend a lot of money very easily.
The ranges below will provide a comfortable living experience.
One month
- Food £200-£400
- Transport £50-£80
- Phone £10-£20
- Course Materials £30-£50
- Clothing £50-£150
- Social Activities £100-£500
Other expenses such as medical and dental insurance, flights and computer equipment also need to be factored in. Dentistry in the UK is not covered by the Health Surcharge and can be expensive if emergency or ongoing treatment is required.