UK tuition fees are frequently a source of controversy, with prices having risen to eye-watering levels for home students (UK/EU) in recent years. Now, UK and EU students at English universities are required to pay up to £9,250 (~US$13,050) per year.
International undergraduate tuition fees vary considerably, starting at around £10,000 (~US$14,130) and going up to £38,000 (~US$53,700) or more for medical degrees
(source: Reddin Survey of University Tuition Fees).
At all levels, humanities and social sciences degrees tend to cost the least, while laboratory and clinical degree programs are markedly more expensive, but when you combine these fees with the average cost of living in the UK, around £12,200 (~US$16,950) per year, then it can be hard to see how it’s possible to study in the UK without it costing you a small fortune. The total average cost of studying in the UK is estimated to be at least £22,200 (~US$31,380) per year, with studying in London likely to be significantly more expensive.
While these costs may be daunting, remember that most UK universities offer shorter programs compared to countries such as the US (three years for the average undergraduate degree instead of four, and one year for a master’s degree instead of two), so you may be able to subtract a year’s worth of fees and living costs from your total budget.
If these figures haven’t been enough to put you off studying in the UK, here’s a closer look at what you’ll be spending your money on, and how Brexit may affect your costs.
Other average living costs in the UK
- A weekly food shop will likely cost you about £30/$42, and a meal in a pub or restaurant can be about £12/$17
Depending on your course, you’ll likely spend at least £30 a month on books and other course materials - Your mobile phone bill is likely to be at least £15/$22 a month
- Gym membership costs roughly £32/$45 a month, but you may be able to get a student discount
- A typical night out (outside of London) costs about £30/$42 in total
- In terms of entertainment, if you want to watch TV in your room, you need a TV license – this is £147 (~US$107) per year.
- A cinema ticket costs roughly £10/$14 Depending on your spending habits, you might spend £35-55 (US$49-77) or so on clothing each month
