Top 8 Cheapest Universities in UK for International Students - 2024/25

Embarking on higher education in the UK can be a thrilling prospect, yet the looming concern of expenses often clouds the excitement, especially as costs continue to rise. If you’re navigating the maze of university choices with budget constraints in mind, fear not - this article is just what you need! We have handpicked the cheapest universities in UK for international students for the academic year 2024/25. While the figures provided here aim to offer you an overview of undergraduate and postgraduate course fees, it is advisable to verify the specific costs on university websites, as they may vary. With this in mind, join us as we uncover your pathway to affordable education. 

University of Chester

The University of Chester stands out as one of the cheapest universities in UK for international students in 2024. Nestled within the historic Roman settlement of Chester, the university takes pride in its rich heritage and vibrant community. This unique location not only offers a cultural experience but also makes studying more affordable compared to other parts of the UK. In the 2023 Whatuni Student Choice Awards, the University of Chester was voted 2nd by students in the UK for Cost of Living Support.

University of Bedfordshire

With campuses in Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, the University of Bedfordshire stands as a research-driven institution, boasting four faculties that offer a diverse array of courses from Arts to Sports, encompassing undergraduate to doctoral programmes. It's no wonder that the University of Bedfordshire secures a spot among the cheapest universities in UK for international students, given its steadfast commitment to ensuring university education remains as affordable as possible. In addition to its economical tuition fees, the university provides a range of scholarships, bursaries, and cost-of-living initiatives, making accessible education a top priority.

University of Bolton

With some of the lowest course fees and living costs among universities, and situated in the welcoming town of Bolton in Greater Manchester, the University of Bolton is dedicated to delivering exceptional value to its students. This commitment, coupled with its reputation for high-quality teaching and positive student learning outcomes, has consistently placed the University of Bolton in the UK's top ten for Student Satisfaction since 2020. Furthermore, the university has recently introduced a range of new scholarships for prospective international students beginning their studies in September 2024.

Leeds Beckett University 

Leeds Beckett University positions itself as an institution with unique educational goals, aiming to equip students with exceptional knowledge and skills to navigate their future successfully. Emphasising practical outcomes, it has established collaborations with various organisations and businesses to ensure that students have optimal access to employment opportunities upon completing their studies.

This university stands out for accommodating students with study gaps, welcoming international students who have taken breaks from academic pursuits for several years. This inclusivity reflects the university's commitment to providing opportunities for diverse learners and enabling them to pursue higher education irrespective of their individual circumstances.

University of West London

The University of West London has earned a stellar reputation thanks to its state-of-the-art research facilities, skilled instructors, and excellent teaching methods. Notably, it distinguishes itself by offering some of the most competitive tuition fees in the UK, even while located in the capital city. This university holds particular appeal for international students seeking an affordable Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme in London. With its budget-friendly approach, it ranks among the cheapest universities in UK for international students. 

Teesside University 

Located in the heart of Middlesbrough in North East England, Teesside University is renowned for providing exceptional education while championing social diversity and inclusivity for under-represented groups. To further enhance its appeal, especially to international students, the university maintains comparatively low tuition fees and offers on-campus accommodation starting at just £85 per week. This commitment to affordability earned Teesside University 4th place for exceptional value for money in the International Student Barometer Autumn 2022 wave.

University of Greenwich

Another London university that makes the list of the cheapest universities in UK for international students is the University of Greenwich. It is notable for its excellence in responsible consumerism, land life, decreasing inequities, partnering for objectives, and climate action. With a student body between 15,000-25,000, where 22% of students hail from non-EU countries, the university welcomes a diverse international community. It offers a broad spectrum of courses tailored for international students, covering various disciplines. This commitment to diversity, education, and sustainability makes the University of Greenwich an appealing choice for students from around the globe.

University of Stirling

If you would like to venture further north to Scotland, consider the University of Stirling as an affordable option. Recognised for its dedication to education, job preparedness, services, and inclusivity, the University of Stirling has been awarded a prestigious five-star rating by QS Top Universities. This recognition solidifies the university's position as a top-tier institution that excels not only in academic endeavors but also prioritizes student support, inclusivity, and overall service quality.

Identifying the most budget-friendly universities in the UK can indeed pose a challenge. As an international student, tuition fees are naturally higher compared to those for domestic students. The overall cost of studying abroad extends beyond tuition and includes living expenses, making it a substantial investment. Hopefully, our picks for the cheapest universities in UK for international students can help alleviate your concerns; pursuing an education in one of the world's premier study-abroad destinations is an invaluable experience.

Do you still have questions about studying in the UK? Our UAPP experts have all the answers!