Top 10 Affordable UK Universities for Indian Students in 2025

For many years, the UK has been a coveted destination for Indian students. Thousands of Indians traveled there and qualified as barristers and doctors in the pre-independence era. That trend continues today with over 92,000 students studying there in 2024. 

The UK is known for its prestigious universities, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is home to prestigious universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College, and many more. 

But education at the best universities in the UK can be quite expensive. Many students want to study in the UK but seek more affordable options. This article will explore the top 10 cheapest universities in the UK for 2025. We shall also suggest various scholarship opportunities and tips to manage expenses. 

Factors to consider when choosing affordable universities in the UK

Studying abroad is an expensive proposition. The cost of education at the cheapest universities in the UK runs into several lakhs of rupees. There are several aspects you should consider when choosing an affordable university in the UK. These include:

Tuition Fees

This is the most obvious factor to consider. Public universities in the UK generally require lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. 

Research the tuition fees specific to your chosen course. Note that there is a difference between fees charged for UK, EU, and non-EU students. Websites like UCAS and individual university websites are excellent resources for this information.

Cost of Living

London and other major cities like Oxford and Cambridge are home to world-class universities. But the high cost of living can be prohibitive. Look at universities in smaller cities or towns that offer a more affordable lifestyle. Keep in mind transportation costs, food prices, and general living costs when you calculate the overall affordability.

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation expenses are a major component of your budget. On-campus housing is often cheaper than renting privately. However, the availability can be limited. 

Therefore consider the location of the university. Cities with a lower cost of living such as Birmingham and Glasgow will have more affordable accommodation. Explore different kinds of shared housing options to cut costs. 

Financial Aid 

Before you travel, research available scholarships, grants, and bursaries for international students. Many UK universities offer merit-based or needs-based scholarships. Check the university’s financial aid office websites and apply early. 

Part-time Work 

International students are usually permitted to work 20 hours per week during terms. But at the time of vacation, students can work unlimited hours. A part-time job can help ease your financial burden. Consider the availability of part-time jobs in the university’s location. 

Make a careful decision based on the above factors. You are sure to find several universities that meet your criteria. 

Top 10 affordable universities in the UK for 2025

There are many affordable universities in the UK. Based on current trends and projected fees for 2025, here are 10 UK universities known for their affordability and quality education:

• University of Cumbria

The University of Cumbria is located in the scenic northwest of the country. It also has an additional campus in London. The university is well known for courses in law, healthcare, and the arts. It offers flexible course options, and places stress on practical learning experiences. 

The tuition fees for international students range between £13,575 and £16,400 per year. The University of Cumbria also emphasizes employability. The courses often include work placements and hands-on projects that offer real-world practice. 

• University of Chester

The University of Chester is known for its friendly atmosphere, apart from being set in a historic city. The University has modern teaching facilities besides traditional architecture which creates a unique learning environment. The institution is well-regarded for offering quality education at competitive tuition rates.

The tuition fee for a master’s program is between £15,000 and £20,000 per year. The university’s courses emphasize practical learning, which can include industry placements and overseas opportunities

• University of Sunderland

Situated on the North East coast, the University of Sunderland is located by the seaside. It was previously Sunderland Technical College and became a university in 1992. With 27,500 students University of Sunderland offers an exciting campus experience.

For the 2024 – 25 academic year, international students pay between £10,000-£20,500 per year. The university is known for its strong industry connections. There is an emphasis on equipping students with valuable skills that enhance their career prospects.

• Leeds Trinity University

Leeds Trinity University is located in the heart of Leeds. Leeds is a famous industrial town which was the center of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century. 

The university is an affordable choice with tuition fees ranging from around £12,000 to £15,500. It offers student-centered education and is known for research excellence. Leeds Trinity is highly affordable and this makes it ideal for international students. 

• University of Bedfordshire

Located in the eastern part of the UK, the University of Bedfordshire offers a wide variety of courses from business to the arts and health sciences. Bedfordshire is an industrial hub with several international and UK companies based here. 

The fee for postgraduate courses varies by course and is between £14,500 and £19,000. The university provides excellent student support services, including assistance with visa procedures and accommodation. It is also recognized for its environmental initiatives and ranking highly in sustainability rankings.

• University of Derby

The University of Derby is known for its practical focus and strong industry links. It is reputed for its approachable academic staff and innovative teaching methods. 

For the 2025 – 2026 academic year, the tuition fees will be approximately £16,000 for international students. The University of Derby is consistently ranked as one of the more affordable UK universities. Its curriculum is well-regarded and students have little problem securing employment.  

• Liverpool Hope University

Liverpool is known for its famous football club and huge port. Liverpool Hope University offers a wide range of degrees in the arts, education, and social sciences. 

For international students, 2025 course fees are expected to range between £7,700 to £16,500. The highly affordable tuition fees ensure that quality education remains accessible to all. The university has several notable alumni. Professor Har Gobind Khorana, a renowned Indian-American scientist and Nobel Prize recipient was a research student at Liverpool Hope University. 

• Sheffield Hallam University

Sheffield Hallam University is known for its research excellence and robust teaching standards. The university offers courses in healthcare, business, design, engineering, and social sciences.

For international students, the cost of a postgraduate degree will be between £17,700 – £20,500. The university boasts updated facilities and learning spaces designed to support innovative teaching methods.

• University of the Highlands and Islands

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) is a university in Scotland that offers a range of courses in arts, humanities, business, science, health, and engineering. The university is a network of colleges and campuses spread across Scotland. UHI has campuses and learning centers across the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, as well as in Inverness, Perth, and Stirling.

Postgraduate tuition fees range from £3,800 to £12,000 per year. Nearly three-quarters of UHI’s research is considered world-leading making it a natural choice for many international students. 

• University of Wolverhampton

The University of Wolverhampton describes itself as a truly international university with 2500 students from 140 nations. It is a great choice for students seeking quality education with practical career benefits. 

International students pay between £14,000 and  £18,000 depending on the course. The university lays enormous emphasis on practical learning which ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the professional world.

Note: Choosing an affordable university is a great start to managing your study abroad expenses. But did you know you can make your journey even smarter and more cost-effective? 

GradRight’s university-search platform is here to help you choose your Master’s program abroad in a smarter way. It’s unbiased, free, and personalized, designed to help you find the best universities that offer high ROI and fit your budget. Here’s how it works:

1. AI-powered shortlisting: Uses 8 million data points across 40,000+ programs and 4,000+ universities globally to find the best matches for you.
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3. Unique recommendations: Receive profile-based recommendations and match scores for each university.
4. Application invites: Get invites from top universities tailored to your profile.
5. Fundable shortlist: Ensure you get education loans easily with a list of universities known for their financial aid options.

GradRight has already helped thousands of students like you save time and money by guiding them towards universities that offer great value. Now, let’s dive into some special considerations for Indian and international students.

Also Read: Study in the UK without IELTS. UK universities without IELTS

Special considerations for Indian and international students

For international students, studying in the UK presents unique opportunities. However, some distinct challenges need thoughtful preparation. These factors include: 

Visa and Immigration

You must ensure you meet the visa requirements by providing proof of sufficient funds. As of January 2, 2025, a student needs £1,483 per month to cover living costs in London. You need to show that you have enough money to cover your living expenses for the length of your course. The amount must have been in your account for at least 28 days before you apply for a visa. 

Financial Planning

Over the past three years, the Indian rupee has depreciated heavily against the British pound. Monitor currency fluctuations and have enough in your account. Ensure there is enough to meet a 2-3% further depreciation. This helps in managing both the visa application process and your overall budget once in the UK.

Cultural Adaptation

It can be difficult to adapt to a new culture abroad. Many UK universities offer dedicated support services for international students. These include orientation programs, mentoring, counseling, and cultural societies. It is better to join a university that is known for having a support system for international students. 

Scholarship Opportunities

Look for universities where scholarship opportunities can be easily availed. Carefully review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship, including academic performance and nationality. These scholarships can significantly reduce your tuition fees. 

Part-Time Work

To reduce your financial burden you would want to take up some part-time work. However, due to high unemployment, everyone is not welcoming of students doing part-time work. Some cities such as London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Glasgow, and Birmingham are considered especially friendly towards international students. The smaller cities that are congenial include Exeter, Bath, Cambridge, Bristol, Newcastle upon Tyne, and Coventry.

These are some of the factors that are essential to keep in mind while deciding on affordable universities in the UK.

Scholarship opportunities at affordable universities in 2025

There are multiple scholarships available at the affordable universities in the UK. 

Here  is a table summarizing the scholarships available for international students at these universities:

University	Scholarship Name	Details
University of Cumbria	International Scholarships	Up to 50% tuition fee reduction for the first year of study.
	Global Undergraduate/Postgraduate Scholarships	Fee discounts of up to £2,500 per year for most non-EU/EEA students.
	GREAT Scholarships	£11,000 for postgraduate students from eligible countries, funded in partnership with the British Council.
University of Chester	International Scholarships	Automatic consideration for a significant tuition fee reduction for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
	Chevening Scholarships	Fully funded scholarships for one-year master’s degrees, covering tuition fees, living costs, and travel.
University of Sunderland	International Scholarship	£5,000 tuition fee reduction for undergraduate courses and £4,500 for postgraduate courses.
	Alumni Loyalty Scheme	20% fee reduction for alumni returning for postgraduate study.
Leeds Trinity University	Turing Scheme Funding	Grants for students studying abroad as part of their program.
	Sanctuary Scholarship	Covers tuition fees and provides additional support for asylum seekers or forced migrants.
	Alumni Scholarship	Up to 50% discount on postgraduate tuition fees for Leeds Trinity graduates with a 2:2 or above.
University of Bedfordshire	International Undergraduate Scholarships	Up to £6,000 per year for eligible courses.
	Postgraduate Global Merit Scholarship	£3,000 off total tuition fees.
	Chevening Scholarships	Fully funded scholarships in partnership with the UK government.
University of Derby	GREAT Scholarships	£10,000 for postgraduate students from eligible countries such as India, Nigeria, and Thailand.
	Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship	Full tuition fee waiver for exceptional academic and extracurricular performance.
Liverpool Hope University	GEMS Scholarship	50% tuition fee reduction for new international students from GEMS institutions.
Sheffield Hallam University	Scholarships & Bursaries	A variety of awards with specifics depending on the program and eligibility; includes support like the Student Success Scholarship.
University of the Highlands and Islands	International Scholarships	Merit-based awards for outstanding academic performance; additional support includes bursaries and professional development awards.
University of Wolverhampton	Lord Paul Excellence Scholarship	£1,500–£2,000 per year based on A-level grades or equivalent.
	Regional Awards	£3,000 per year for students from specific regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa or South Asia.
	Sanctuary Scholarship	Tuition fee waiver and living cost bursary.

The eligibility criteria and deadline for application vary by program and institution. Usually, you have to apply for a scholarship or let the university admissions office know that you require financial aid when applying. For more information, consult each university’s official website.

Also Read: Top 6 Scholarships For Indian Students to Study in the UK 2024

Comparing tuition fees in affordable vs premium UK universities

The main difference between affordable and premium universities in the UK is the cost. The quality of education is often similar. Many mid-range universities offer great teaching and good job outcomes at half the price of top-ranked ones.

Tuition Fee Comparison

Top universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College charge between £25,000 and £35,000 each year. Affordable UK universities such as the University of Cumbria, Leeds Trinity University, and the University of Sunderland start from £11,000 to £16,000 per year.

Even for the same course, the price can be very different. For example, a postgraduate business degree may cost £30,000 at a top university but only £15,000 at a mid-range one.

Quality and Learning Experience

Affordable UK universities usually have smaller classes and give students more personal attention. They also focus on practical learning. These universities may not always appear in world rankings, but their degrees are approved and respected everywhere.

Many of them help students find internships or placements. Because of this, graduates often find jobs within six months after finishing their studies.

Total Cost and Return on Investment

When comparing universities, look not just at tuition but at the total cost. Include housing, food, transport, and daily needs. A university with slightly higher fees in a cheaper city may still be the better choice.

Indian students should also think about return on investment. A university that offers an MBA for £15,000 with a 90% placement rate gives more value than one charging £30,000 without internship options.

As a student, you have to look for a balance between cost, quality, and career outcomes. Affordable UK universities offer you world-class education at a relatively small price tag. With good planning, you can earn a well-respected UK degree without breaking the bank.

Affordable UK Universities by Subject: Law, MBA, Medicine, Biology & Design

Each subject in the UK has its own fee range. Law and medicine are usually more expensive, while design, business, and biology are more affordable. Picking the right course and university helps you meet your career goals without spending too much.

Law

Law degrees in the UK are well-reputed. Since there is a lot of commonality between Indian and British law, it opens doors to careers in India and throughout the Commonwealth. The cost depends on the city and university.

Affordable choices include:

• University of Cumbria
• University of Wolverhampton
• University of Bedfordshire

Their tuition fees range from £13,000 to £16,000 per year. These universities offer good-quality education and internships. For Indian students who plan to return home, a UK law degree is highly valued in legal firms and corporate offices. 

Students can also apply for scholarships like Chevening or Commonwealth Shared Scholarships for law students.

MBA

MBA courses in the UK are extremely popular with Indian students. Many universities provide good programs at an affordable cost.

Top budget-friendly options include:

• Leeds Trinity University
• University of Sunderland
• University of Chester

Fees usually range between £15,000 and £18,000 per year. These MBA courses focus on tutoring leadership initiatives, business strategy, and management. Students also gain hands-on experience through internships. Graduates get excellent job offers in marketing, finance, and business analytics across the UK, Europe, and North America.

When choosing your MBA, check placement data and scholarship options. Some universities also give discounts for early applications. 

Medicine

Medicine is one of the most expensive courses in the UK, but a few universities make it more affordable.

The University of Central Lancashire and the University of Sunderland offer good medicine and health science degrees. Tuition fees range between £22,000 and £30,000 each year. This is lower than the £40,000+ charged by universities in London.

Students can also look into related fields like nursing, biomedical science, or public health. These programs cost less and still lead to good careers. Many Indian students take the General Medical Council (GMC) exams or return home to join medical practice at the best hospitals.

Biology and Life Sciences

The UK is famous for its research in biological sciences. Affordable UK universities for subjects such as biotechnology, microbiology, and environmental science include:

• University of Derby
• University of Cumbria
• University of the Highlands and Islands

Fees are usually between £12,000 and £15,000 per year. These universities have modern labs, fieldwork options, and research projects. Many courses include internships that help students build skills for jobs in research and healthcare.

Design and Creative Arts

The UK is also known for art and design. There are affordable programs in interior design to graphic design.

Good budget options include Leeds Trinity University and the University of Chester. Fees start from £11,000 to £14,000 per year. Many universities give scholarships to students who show strong creative work or a portfolio.

Choosing an affordable UK university based on subject and cost helps you plan your career wisely. Whether you study law or design, there is an affordable UK university course for you. 

Tips to manage expenses while studying in the UK

It is expensive to study at the best universities in the UK. The cost of study including all expenses is about £16,000, INR 17.6 lakhs, each year. While that might seem high to many, it can be managed through smart financial planning. Here are some practical tips:

Student Discounts

Your student ID card is your best friend while shopping. Actively seek out student discounts at shops, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues.

Transportation Savings

In the UK, a student travel pass also known as a “16-25 Railcard”, allows full-time students aged between 16 and 25 to get a 30% discount on most trains across the country. If you live in London, an Oyster photocard offers discounted travel on the London Underground and other transports.

Part-time Work

If you want, take up part-time jobs on campus or nearby to supplement your income. Of course, your study schedule comes first, and then any consideration for employment. You can work 20 hours each week and make between £8 and £12 per hour. 

Cooking at Home

Prepare your own meals instead of eating out frequently. No matter where you are in the UK you will find a trusted Indian grocery store.

Second-Hand Shopping

Try to buy second-hand when possible. Look for used textbooks, clothes, furniture, and electronics at online marketplaces, or student-run sales. 

By adopting these strategies you will easily be able to keep within a budget and manage expenses during study at the cheapest university in the UK.

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